Collaboration between a committed client, contractor and architect can produce green design that is more than just a slogan. Canivet Construction and Hyer Architecture are proud to have been chosen by our client Julie Quayle to design and build San Leandro's first GreenPoint Rated home. At 450 square feet, this residence packs a lot of green into a small footprint. This tiny but efficient studio includes a small kitchen area, a sewing corner and a luxurious bathroom with sleeping quarters partitioned from the living space by a freestanding closet/room divider. A palate of colored concrete, bamboo and metal was used to create a serene and contemporary feel. The house is designed to fully accommodate wheelchair access
Julie wanted a modest home, but one that adamantly reflected her sensibilities. She spent her married life living in the home she had grown up in and wanted to give her daughter the opportunity to come home so she could raise her grandchildren. She decided to build a separate, self contained cottage in her backyard, and was committed to giving her new home a light carbon footprint. The project incorporates many sustainable building practices and green materials. It was built using both salvaged FSC-certified framing and finish lumber. It has radiant space heating and on-demand water heating. The Title 24 energy efficiency requirements are exceeded by 23%. We used non-toxic/low-VOC products and finishes, energy efficient appliances and installed a rainwater catchment system. The studios compact size, and the fact that it is an urban infill project, punctuates its green credentials.
The project was awarded 123 points in the GreenPoint Rating by Build It Green and was the first such project in the city of San Leandro. Its building progress was closely watched and cheered by the city planners and inspectors. Come see it for yourself on the GreenPoint Showcase October 4, 2009.
