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The University of Maryland’s Solar Decathlon 2011 entry, entitled WaterShed, is inspired
by the Chesapeake Bay ecosystem. The home interconnects architecture, engineering,
and landscape features, creating a holistic design that responds to challenges of both
energy and water consumption. WaterShed’s constructed wetlands are at
the heart of the design. The constructed wetlands store storm water and filter pollutants from
grey water. Once filtered by plants, the water can be reused on site for irrigation, decreasing
demand on municipal water supplies and wastewater treatment facilities.
The home’s two shed forms feed this natural system. WaterShed’s solar array also benefits
from the shed forms as the angled roof elegantly allows the solar array to efficiently create
power. Unwanted solar gain from high southern and
harsh western sunlight is prevented using overhangs and outdoor elements such as the
solar thermal wall. The modules are offset along the constructed
wetlands axis and connected by the bathroom module. This creates a rich variety of spaces
for the widely varying daily and seasonal changes of the Chesapeake region.
Flexible space planning in the living module lets residents cook, eat, entertain and relax.
General illumination is provided in the soaring space through translucent clerestories.
The kitchen deck creates a covered outdoor area and provides access to the gardens.
WaterShed’s bathroom module bridges between the living and working modules and is part
of the constructed wetlands axis. This module features a glass-enclosed shower reinforcing
the resident’s impact on and connection to the environment.
The working and sleeping module accommodates both personal and professional needs using
transformable furniture. The bed can transition to a conference table while the desk space
provides a permanent area to work. WaterShed’s envelope is an integrated system
of layers protecting the house against energy loss and water infiltration.
Heavy-stick framing is covered in tongue-and-groove sheathing. Two layers of rigid foam insulation
on the exterior as well as a liquid-applied air and water barrier create a tight seal
against the elements. A ventilated rain-screen helps ensure that no water vapor gets trapped
in the walls. Spray foam insulation in the wall and roof
cavities brings the total insulation value of the envelope above R-40. High efficiency
windows and doors complete the envelope, providing ample natural light to the interior.
Thermo-treated wood siding and decking is bug and rot resistant, without using harsh
chemicals. Through integrated architecture, engineering,
and living systems, WaterShed creates inspiring spaces which bring delight to every day activities.
WaterShed is a house as ecosystem, an answer to today’s many questions about how to build
a more sustainable future.