SMPLyMod Prefab Duplex Harnesses Energy-Efficient Design in Canada’s Cold Northwest Territories

Modular and <a href="http://inhabitat.com/architecture/prefab-housing/">prefab</a> construction techniques are perfect for harsh climates with limited access to resources and skilled builders. A new modern, modular duplex in Yellowknife, the capital of Northwest Territories in Canada is a perfect example. Designed by <a href="http://www.smplarchitecture.com/" target="_blank">SMPL Design Studio</a> and <a href="http://ominecasolar.com/" target="_blank">9 Dot Engineering</a> for <a href="http://www.modhomedevelopments.com/" target="_blank">ModHome Developments</a>, the homes are the first of 4 total units and they feature energy-efficient design that will ensure comfort without breaking the bank on energy and fuel costs. Upon completion in September, the project received a score of 82 through Canada's <a href="http://oee.nrcan.gc.ca/residential/new-homes/upgrade-packages/4998" target="_blank">EnerGuide rating system</a>.

Yellowknife is located on the northern shore of the Great Slave Lake in Northwest Territories and it experiences very cold winters with average temps around −27 °C (−17 °F).

This harsh climate necessitates a strong reliance on fuel oil to stay warm during the winter.

<a href="http://www.modhomedevelopments.com/" target="_blank">ModHome Developments</a> is working to build energy-efficient homes in the area, and they recently completed their first project, a modular, prefab duplex on the north side of the city.

a href="http://www.smplarchitecture.com/" target="_blank"&gt;SMPL Design Studio</a> designed the modular home based on their SMPLyMod prefab construction system.

The homes in the duplex are each 1,301 sq ft and they have 3 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms all wrapped up in a tidy energy-efficient package.

The modules were fabricated in factories in Ontario and feature super efficient wall and roof assemblies and a tight envelope to minimize energy loss.

Passive solar design provides additional heating in the winter and daylighting inside the homes.

On-demand hot water heaters, a Heat Recovery Ventilator, and 95.4% efficient propane furnace ensure energy efficiency and reduce reliance on expensive fuels.

The interior of the home is finished with sustainably grown, harvested and manufactured bamboo flooring and the exterior features a zero maintenance exterior made from metal and cement board.

The Yellowknife Duplex received a score of 82 through Canada's <a href="http://oee.nrcan.gc.ca/residential/new-homes/upgrade-packages/4998" target="_blank">EnerGuide rating system</a>, which means it uses 55% less energy to heat and power the home than other buildings of its kind.

The home is also pre-wired for solar electric, which makes the installation down the line easier for the new home owners.

The walls feature R22 insulation, floors have R38 and the roof has R50.

One of the 2 bathrooms.