I went on another tour of a couple of passive houses under construction in the San Jose area. The two were very different from each other. The first is a remodel, designed by Thamby Kumaran with energy modelling by the owner-builder, Scott Heeschen. It uses a lot of salvaged redwood for the rainscreen siding, a mixture of Marvin Integrity and Serious windows, and rainwater catchment. Clearly architecture was a priority, since attics and flat ceilings make it easier to maximize insulation. (Compared to this beautiful vaulted ceiling)
Thamby Kumaran and passive house tourists
I am curious how the long strip of south-facing clerestory windows will perform in summer with such a minimal overhang.
Nabih Tahan and several other visitors on the back deck
Casement, awning, and fixed windows were chosen for their air tight seals.
Marvin Integrity casement windows
Several large water cisterns in the side yard
The other house I had already visited in the fall of 2010.
Cottle Zero Energy House
This one is more of a standard high-end spec house, but it seems to be quite technically competent on many levels.
Presentation to eager passive house enthusiasts. Note the open web joists above. These make for easy routing of ducts and plumbing
“Ladder blocking” allows for more complete insulation of the exterior envelope
Insulated concrete form on display
deedsdesign 
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