Bird's Wing Passive House

A folding roof line mimics the wing of a bird in flight, while creating a simple, yet highly-effective thermal envelope. Dark, rich material tones are found in the plumage of the local Great Blue Heron, complemented by warm wood accents to contrast the site’s lush green landscape and boulevard trees.

An exercise in space optimization, the homes are a 3D puzzle of interlocking pieces. The elegant structure has many moving parts working together, where the suites bend and fold around each other to maximize both efficiency and density—even within strict zoning regulations. Each unit has a full floor plate, open to the south with strategically placed windows for plenty of daylight and ventilation. 

The high-performance duplex provides each family with their own fully customizable space, complete with communal outdoor areas for summer parties. Two lock-off rental suites also give the owners additional flexibility in how they use their homes—or the option for potential rental income.

Passive House Plus means the home produces as much energy as the residents consume. Even with multiple suites, 33 solar panels on the roof provide enough power to offset the energy consumed by the households, especially when paired with the high-performance envelope and natural, mineral wool batt insulation.