Feature photograph of Hilltop Sustainable Residence
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Hilltop Sustainable Residence

Alexandria, VA

ODG provided architectural services for the complete renovation of and addition to a 2,400 gsf brick townhouse in Alexandria, Virginia. The 600 gsf addition included an expansion of the first floor living room and the master bedroom. All three levels of the townhouse were completely renovated. The second floor was converted  to a master bedroom loft space with a cathedral ceiling, catwalk, skylights, and exposed wood beams. The master bedroom suite includes a renovated master bath, an office with views of the Potomac River, and an outdoor sitting room. The first floor was renovated with a kitchen island opening into the dining room and living room beyond with large glass doors leading to the rear porch and garden.  The lower level includes a library, future bedroom, and interior garden.

The house was designed with energy sustainability in mind and features a clay tile roof at the optimum slope for solar photovoltaic panels. The high performance exterior envelope is 50% more efficient than the ICC Energy Code requirements. The 95% efficient boiler reduces heating costs.

The project reduces water consumption through by employing low consumption toilet fixtures, native vegetation, and a rainwater catchment system. Expected cost of utilities is $500 per year. This project stayed within budget and was completed in 2007.

Annual total expected Emissions:

  Hilltop Average US Single Family Residence
NOx:  27.66 lbs  
 SO2:  45.46 lbs  
 CO2:  8.73 tons  10.4 tons