Envelope detailing

Among the first of its kind, this small residential development in Marin County features six modest strawbale homes ranging from 1200-1500 sq.ft. on a 10.6 acre parcel wth 9 acres preserved as open space. It's the culmination of 45 years of uncertainty for the land and seems to be an ideal end result for property neighbors as well as the county. Beyond Efficiency was retained to design mechanical and plumbing systems that are appropriate for the super-efficient low-load homes.

Given the oceanside location of Esalen, high levels of insulation, and passive solar orientation, these units have very low heating demands and aren't expected to have cooling concerns. To align with the client's goals for low first cost and systems simplicity, we designed the mechanical systems to include electric resistance baseboard radiators paired with through-the-wall (ductless) heat recovery ventilators (HRVs).

Construction was completed in the fall of 2017.

A North Berkeley institution founded in 1961, Monterey Market is a two-generation, family-run market that supports local farmers and the community, providing fresh in-season organic produce along with other staples. Built in the 1940s, the Monterey Market building had undergone minimal improvements over the decades.

At an elevation of 8750' and winter design temperature of -16 degrees F, the historic mountain mining town of Telluride, Colorado can be cold! Beyond Efficiency was brought on board for its cold-climate expertise and provided buiding envelope advising and detailing, mechanical engineering, and guidance in surpassing Telluride's energy efficiency requirements for the new single-family home. The project was completed in the fall of 2016.

When construction was just about to begin for the South Bay's first cohousing project, Beyond Effiency was engaged to complete a detailed plan review to comment on energy-related aspects of the plans. We provided a detailed matrix of comments and recommendations, including suggestions for improving a significant thermal bridge at the edge of an elevated post-tensioned podium slab. We also advised on window glazing specifications, exterior shading, and insulation assemblies and performance requirements.

Spectacularly sited high above the Jackson Hole valley floor with direct views to the Teton range, this home and writer's studio are incorporating thick double-stud walls, insulated rammed earth wall accents, triple-pane windows, heat recovery ventilation, and numerous other high-performance and green features. The original goal of getting to Passive House levels of performance in this 10,000 heating-degree-day climate will not be met, but heat demands are expected to be at least 60% less than code level. The project is currently on hold.