Here is Part 2 of 3 in the Houston Solar Home Tour Series. Part 1 can be viewed here.
The 3rd stop on our tour was the Saint Catherine's Montessori School. If I am not mistaken, this is the first LEED Certified Private School in Texas. As we drove it was quite breathtaking with its circular design. We noticed right off the indigenous landscaping, fountains and gardens. The one thing I did not know was that 100% of the supplied energy from the school comes from Renewable Energy! Wow!
I have to say that we found the circular design inside and all of the classrooms we saw with windows to be quite relaxing. These students are so lucky to be schooled in such a fantastic environment.
The school prides itself in minimizing the waste during construction and using Low VOC paints and carpets which optimize the learning environment with less toxins. Here are a few more pictures that I would like to share:
What more could promote student involvement besides their own garden, recycling stations, and pets in the classrooms? From site to design to amenities, I have to give the school a BIG GREEN thumbs up also!
The 4th stop on our tour was another great Contemporary which is a Passive Solar Design yet the roof was designed for solar panels in the future if the homeowner desires. It is being constructed by Dovetail Homes and Designed by Environment Associates. This home also was not quite complete, but getting close! The home had quite a crowd and they were asking some great questions.
Just driving down the street you would never guess that it was back there. It is quietly nestled among the trees.
One of the features that made this home unique was the A/C Ducts in the Air conditioned space to maximize efficiency. You will also see the I-Joists along the top. Both of which will help with LEED Certification. One of the features that attracted people was the water manifold and we learned how they were going to stain the concrete floor as opposed to using a flooring. The countertops were also going to be concrete.
The owner talked about how they will also have Rainwater Harvesting, organic gardening and landscaping and a porous driveway. In the picture to the right you will notice the window at the top..there are actually 3. It is designed for when the wind blows to naturally withdraw heat. Wow! Some amazing details went in to this home during design and I would like to see this one next year as well.
To view the Part 1 and 3 please follow the links below:
Stephanie,
Do they use the harvested rainwater to water their plants and garden? That is a great idea which could also save a lot of money.
Thanks Barbara Jo, I read the other day that Houston Independent School District is trying to get it passed to build something like 12 LEED Certified schools! I was so impressed.
Hi Mana, I would bet that they are proud as can be. :)
Hi Rita, Yes. It is for the garden. Although there is a way to use rainwater to drink as well. :)