Coming soon; The latest project under way from Off the Grid Design, using a combimation of centuries old passive solar heating and cooling applications and the newest high efficiency technologies. This new residence is projected to be marketed in the $800,000 range, excellent value for high efficiency in a brand new home in Marin County...A new Genesis in  Home Design for a Changing Planet, And hopefully a culture waking up to the realities... go to <a http://www.offthegriddesign.org/images/stories//solcatcher ii and 1300 for a look at the design review plans...

   This project aspires to be an example of how highly efficient homes can and should be built so that the average family, couple, or individual can afford to live in harmony with the environment, and  enjoy an exteremely comfortable life style and living space while doing so. Passive solar design will be maximized, utilizing natural daylighting and solar gain techniques, combined with adjustable shading devices and natural ventilation for the warmer summer months. A system of breezeways and the operable clerestory windows will provide natural ventilation and cooling as well. 

    Photovoltaic panels on the south street facing facade should produce enough electricity to power the home, and charge the electric vehicle which will be provided along with the purchase of the home, creating truly "free transportation" for trips to the nearby downtown, and beyond. Solar assisted, on demand, tankless water heating will reduce hot water costs to a minimum, while a closed loop hydronic heating system will be utilized to heat the slab floor from below in the colder winter months, supplementing the natural solar energy stored therein from the south facing clerestory windows.

    Green materials and methods will be utilized to create a healthy indoor living environment and efficient use of sustainable building materials. Details will folllow as planning progresses. Check out the "Current Projects" in the links section for access to building floor plans, elevations, and details as they progress. Build out is projected for late 2007, or early 2008.