Lexington, Massachusetts is known for its historical landmarks, but now the city is also home to a powerhouse of energy-efficient design. Designed by Stephanie Horowitz of ZeroEnergy Design, the Lexington Modern Residence is a contemporary 4,400 square-foot home that not only generates its energy through solar power, but is strategically built to significantly reduce its overall energy consumption. In fact, the design is so efficient that the home only uses 19% of the energy it generates when compared to a new house built to code requirements.

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a house with a green lawn in front and blue, cloudy sky above

The prolific team behind ZeroEnergy Design has long been recognized as a leader in sustainable design. Not only do their projects maintain the highest standards in green architecture, but their signature modern aesthetics blend into nearly any environment.

Related: Net-zero community planned for Hamburg will rely on geothermal and solar energy

a living room with black sofas, two tables, a lamp and large floor-to-ceiling windows

One of their latest designs, the Lexington Modern Residence, is a stunning example of how creating a sustainable home doesn’t mean sacrificing luxury. The 10kW rooftop solar electric system provides clean energy production, and the home also boasts several energy-reducing strategies to create a highly insulated shell. For example, a high-performance building envelope and high-efficiency mechanical systems enable the home to consume only 19% of the energy it generates when compared to a new house built to code requirements.

an outdoor sitting area surrounded by green lawn

The layout of the family home was intentionally created to make the most out of the landscape’s natural topography. Its sculptural volume is comprised of a series of cubed forms clad in various materials such as white stucco, wood siding and fiber cement panels. These exterior facades designate the use of the interior spaces found within. From the exterior, these areas are connected via open-air pathways, decks and patios.

two photos: to the left, a bathroom with mirror, sink and cabinets with white countertops. to the right, a sitting room with a small gray sofa, lamp, art on the wall and a skylight

The interior of the four-bedroom home enjoys multiple strategic passive features, as well as refreshingly modern interior design. The large open-space layout of the living area enjoys an abundance of natural light thanks to several triple-paned windows and a massive six by 16-foot Passive House (PHI) certified skylight.

+ ZeroEnergy Design

Via Houzz

Photography by Eric Roth Photography