Geothermally-Heated Thomas Eco House in Washington State is Also Wired for Solar

The Thomas family in Washington State wanted an <a href="http://inhabitat.com/beautiful-green-roofed-brazilian-home-is-made-from-recycled-bricks/">eco-home</a> that would be as energy efficient and sustainable as possible, and that would require the barest amount of maintenance. That's exactly what <a href="http://designsnw.com/">Designs Northwest Architects</a> gave them in this attractive four-storey home with a small footprint. Thanks to <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geothermal_heating">geothermal heating</a>, thermal massing, cutting edge insulation technology and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Passive_solar_building_design">passive solar design</a>, this project requires 44% less heat and 33% cooling than its competition. Unfortunately budget restraints kept the Thomases from purchasing solar panelling, but the house is wired for such a future investment. Albeit not the splashiest home, this daylit beauty gets major brownie points for its high sustainability standards.

This striking four storey home was built on an 11 acre site in Washington State

The Thomas family called for a super energy efficient home that requires very little maintenance

Northwest Designs Architects fulfilled this brief with super insulation and alternative energy

Heat is provided by a geothermal pump that is also linked to a water boiler

Though budget restraints didn't allow for implementation, the home is wired for solar

The Thomas Eco-House has gorgeous views of the surrounding mountains

Passive solar design ensures maximum solar exposure when necessary

Motorized solar shades mitigate excess solar gain

Although we don't love concrete, and this home uses insulated concrete for its thermal massing, we still find this a sustainable home that many middle income families can aspire to.