From the Solar Decathlon website:
The U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon® is a collegiate competition that has inspired thousands of students worldwide to enter the clean energy workforce since its inception in 2002. Today, the 10 contests that are the foundation of Solar Decathlon challenge students to design and build high-performance, low-carbon buildings that mitigate climate change and improve our quality of life through greater affordability, resilience, and energy efficiency.
Our Design Concept:
NuHome shows the future of diverse single family homes through sustainable design. Centered in a bustling part of Chicago, our project shows that sustainable homes can be comfortable, economical, and functional. Through intelligent water management, passive urban design strategies, and photovoltaic energy production, NuHome meets the need for sustainable housing in Chicago.
Key Features:
Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) - provides modularity and flexibility in home design by allowing conversion for in-law suite, extra living space, or separate rental unit for extra income and affordable workforce housing in the city
Water core and greywater system - decreases hot water wait time and maximizes heating efficiency by stacking kitchens and bathrooms and reuses collected greywater to reduce potable water usage
Shou sugi ban burnt wood siding - reclaimed wood preserved using Japanese technique of charring and coating in natural oil reduces home maintenance and embodied environmental impact while providing a unique facade
Central open skylight - large roof window open to second and third floors floods the main house with natural light, decreasing energy needs and contributing to passive heating
24 kBtu air-source heat pump - provides all electric heating and cooling with unparalleled efficiency