Elemental
ABOUT
Client Private Residence
Typology Residential
Location Maine
Year 2022
Design Team Riley Pratt, Alexandra Pagán, Dan Rodefeld
Consultants Thornton Tomasetti – Structural Engineering
Contractor Nate Ross, StoneWood Builders
Furniture Thos. Moser Dining set, Bedroom chair and Bedroom Side Tables
EUI 12.87 kBTU/SF/yr (from DDX reporting)
Nestled on a wooded lot, OPAL’s Elemental is a sculptural composition of dark rectangular volumes and carved voids. Conceived as a contemporary home for a young family of four, the simplicity of forms, slab on grade foundation, and modest structural spans allow for an efficient and cost-effective structure. Large openings of floor-to-ceiling glass are placed to create moments of transparency through the structure. The contrast of these openings with the dark siding produces a lantern-like effect.
The L-shaped plan form separates the driveway and vehicles from a partially sheltered private yard space. A generous entry porch provides a covered connection to a small garage and shop. The house is organized with two strong circulation axes; one for gathering spaces, and one for private bedrooms. A flexibly-programmed second floor provides an away-space that functions as an office, den, playroom, and gym. A screen porch is located at the hinge point of the two axes of circulation, opening onto the kitchen.
The selection of shou sugi ban charred wood siding adds a beautiful and subtle material quality to the exterior surface that is especially highlighted by dappled sunlight filtered through the trees. The dark exterior contrasts starkly with the airy and bright Interior which is accented with locally sourced white ash.
The all-electric home uses a Passive House approach to the building shell and includes careful air sealing, high levels of insulation, heat recovery ventilation, and triple glazed windows and doors allowing the home to achieve an EUI of 12.87 kBtu/sqft. before factoring in any renewable energy offsets.
