Windwood Designs

Timeless designs for future generations

   Approaching a Sustainable Zero Net Energy      PMP

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Urban Cottages

                        Proposed Platinum LEED Infill Development



One of the key aspects of approaching a sustainable energy net zero is to provide sustainable
housing near transit centers, urban services and urban amenities. Thus reducing the overall transportation outlays of greenhouse gases, carbon dioxide and non renewable resources. The idea of urban cottages is to have a condo sized residence with all of the modern amenities and safety features required in new housing. A smaller more efficient use of space significantly reduces the demand on environmental and energy demands, resulting in a smaller ecological
footprint that has the possibility of approaching a sustainable net zero.

Barriers to be Overcome:


  • Design Guidelines that do not allow rooftop gardens, photovoltaic arrays and skylights.
  • Zoning regulations that enforce excessive parking, and limit densities.
  • Planning departments that encourage large unsustainable development.
  • Capital improvement and park fees imposed when services are already in place.
  • Errors created by prior development and the delegation of responsibility to correct them.
  • HUD and local funds for affordable housing directed to large projects only.
  • Sewer and Water tap fees and monthly charges directed towards larger homes and valuations.
  • Overall government fees approaching 40% of project costs.











           Two bedroom, 1 3/4 bath units in 837 sq. ft.

Each with covered parking, private yard, trash/recycling storage and solar access.

















 
 
 
 

Energy Conservation

Alternative Energy

Small Power Generation

Green Building

Day Light Studies

Acoustic Studies

Displacement Ventilation

Indoor Air Quality

Storm Water Retention and Treatment

Rainwater, grey water and septic systems

Biodynamic Agriculture

Vision

To design and build integrated systems that maximize the efficiency of energy and environmental concerns, while maintaining high standards for fire life & safety, accessibility and building life cycle costs in a built environment that is architecturally inspiring.