Chasin Residence

Single-Family Residential
New Construction
Martha's Vineyard, MA 
2008

The best part about this project is what you don’t see: the client had developed strong allergic reactions to the seasonal changes in the flora of their favorite seaside getaway, and wanted to build an indoor/outdoor environment that would seal out allergens when needed. We worked with local hvac experts to develop MERV air filtration system in conjunction with an ERV to create a constant supply of fresh filtered air to the home. When outdoor air was “safe” for inhaling, operable windows and a cozy screened in porch allowed for more typical use. We also specified the most eco-friendly interior finishes and materials as possible, to reduce the chances of any toxins being “trapped” in the building’s interior.

This home was another milestone in our understanding of how wall systems need to “breathe” to dry out (especially in this humid New England seaside environment) while still maintaining a “tight” building envelope. The 5 KwH solar array handles a significant amount of the annual energy load, which in this case is nearly all electric.

Recent update (2014): “Two thumbs up” from the owner, one for comfort and the other for low energy bills. Completed 2008.