This traditionally designed passive house is located in the suburbs near Portland, Oregon, nestled in a modest neighborhood characterized by established homes and convenient living. This residence was designed through thoughtful construction with careful consideration of energy efficient windows, high-performance insulation, air-tight construction and a ventilation system equipped to improve the indoor air quality and comfort year-round. These progressive construction practices converge to create a home focused on functionality, efficiency and time-honored style.
This two-bedroom passive home boasts a functional open floor plan in the main living quarters allowing the natural light to flow unhindered throughout the united space. The open look and feel establishes a connection between the interior and exterior, and a seamless transition from one room to the next. The size and orientation of the fenestration elements were strategically planned in order to capitalize on solar heat gain (SHGC) and a low U-value allowing for free thermal heat during the daytime and retention of warmth throughout the night. The conservative and minimal design approach to the home provides long-term durability, comfort and resiliency.
Due to the passive house high-performance requirements, the Glo A5h Aluminum triple pane windows and doors were selected. The A5h Series boasts a larger thermal break, multiple air seals, low iron glass within a slim, modern frame profile. The hidden sash of the windows allows for a streamlined design, keeping the operational windows and fixed windows uniform in appearance as well as performance. Beauty and high functionality are achieved with the impressively low u-values and dual color selection. The multi-color option allows for design versatility enabling attentive design inside and out. The European hardware provides smooth operation and excellent handling. Concealed hinges were chosen in order to maintain the clean aesthetic and capitalize on the trusted European design advantages. The A5h windows and doors were a perfect fit for this sensible, minimal, and energy efficient in the traditionally designed passive house of Portland.
Photography by Bob Zaikoski, Portland Modern