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Friday, 16 November 2007 |
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Project Description:
Statistics suggest that 50% of the world’s energy is consumed in the construction and operation of buildings. An improvement in the design could have a significant impact on the environment and our economy.
The goal of the project is to design and construct a home that will enhance quality of life both within the home and in the community. Design will minimize the environmental impact of the construction, maintenance, and operation of a single-family residential home using proven (sustainable), economic, and accessible construction practices and technologies. The project will be an inter-disciplinary effort within Lethbridge College that will allow integration with student projects and applied research opportunities.
Construction practices will be monitored to optimize the use of materials and minimize both costs and energy. After construction, the design will be proven by monitoring the home through a year-long cycle. The research will include quantitative analysis of energy consumption, heat loss, air quality, waste management, and water consumption. Qualitative research will include quality of life indicators based on the experience of the residents. These results will be assessed based on design targets and by comparison to a ‘control’ home with a similar design.
Outcomes of this project include the validation and application of ‘alternative’ materials and technologies within an integrated home design, as well as the enhancement of the efficiency and productivity of construction practices typical for residential home building. The design process will be completely open to interested stakeholders in the community, raising societal interest in a home design that considers construction processes, the application of new technologies, and healthy, low-impact living opportunities as it is applied to local conditions. The experience derived through the project design will become the foundation of future curriculum development at Lethbridge College, both through the enhancement of existing programs and the development of new ones aligned with the institutional mission.
Partners of the project:
1. Lethbridge College
Design, project management, research and provide community education initiatives.
2. City of Lethbridge
Provide a lot in the sustainable community of Sunridge, and capital for the construction of the home.
3. Cedar Ridge Quality Homes
Be a partner in the design of the home and construct the home. |
This is an artists rendition of "The Living Home" This is an approximation of what the exterior of the house will look like. If you would like to see a panorama of the home you can click here or on the picture.
