Riviera Residence

Starting with the strategic siting of the house, a sustainable design strategy was implemented in which passive solar gains are realized based on the orientation of the house.

The original house was taken apart, piece-by-piece, with all reusable elements donated to Habitat for Humanity. Building on the original foundation and caissons, a passive rooftop solar heating system provides for domestic hot water; a passive solar ground-level hot-water system is used to heat the pool. Photo-voltaic power generates household electricity through a 2.8kw system; when power is not needed, it feeds back into the grid. Radiant hot-water floor heating and central air conditioning in the ceilings systems are in place but rarely used because of the solar orientation of the home and the natural ventilation. Additional energy-saving systems include double-pane windows, UV-resistant glass, ample insulation, and energy-efficient appliances. Deep exterior overhangs are designed to provide shade in the summer, and let in sun during the winter.