 |
 |
|
The
greenhouse/work barn we designed and built for Innisfree Village uses SafeCrete
Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (also known as Hebel block, widely used in Europe).
AAC uses less concrete and more air than a typical block, yielding a lightweight,
durable material that resists fire, sound and heat loss. Much less wood
is used and thermal efficiency is much higher than typical wood frame construction.
The interior trim is supplied by Appalachian Sustainable Development, a
regional organization that provides high-quality lumber while practicing
long-term forest conservation.
Besides the dense, insulated walls, we insulated the rafters of this steep
roof. In
combination with Energy Star-rated metal roofing
(which reflects much of the sun's heat), the huge attic space becomes part
of the conditioned space of the structure. By installing the HVAC air handler
and ducts in this insulated space, less electricity is needed for summer
cooling. A rainwater harvesting system supplies potable water for the greenhouse,
kitchenette and bathroom without drawing from the local aquifer. On-demand
water heating saves energy by producing heated water only when needed.
The chemically inert wall system does not offgas into the structure. It
"breathes" to allow moisture to naturally equalize. Low-VOC adhesives,
paint and wood products minimize indoor toxins as well. EnviroSafe Plus™
lumber in the greenhouse is odorless, non-volatile and contains no arsenic
or heavy metals.
|
|
