The people of Ithaca are well known as having a strong sense of environmental awareness, hence the inspiration for the construction of this house.
Most of the stone and wood for this house come right from this property. The beams and roof planking were milled from approximately 11 pine trees. These trees would normally be considered lower grade lumber due to various colors present in the wood; however, for this project these trees were ideal as the colors and patterns of the woodwork add a unique charm to the structure.
The utility expenses are minimal in this house, as the earth sheltering on the north, east and west sides keep it comfortably cool in the summer, and cozy and warm in the winter. Large windows on the south wall provide ample natural lighting and significant passive solar heat during the winter months. An appealing natural gas heater provides the heat and ambiance of a fireplace.
Most of the stone and wood for this house come right from this property. The beams and roof planking were milled from approximately 11 pine trees. These trees would normally be considered lower grade lumber due to various colors present in the wood; however, for this project these trees were ideal as the colors and patterns of the woodwork add a unique charm to the structure.
The utility expenses are minimal in this house, as the earth sheltering on the north, east and west sides keep it comfortably cool in the summer, and cozy and warm in the winter. Large windows on the south wall provide ample natural lighting and significant passive solar heat during the winter months. An appealing natural gas heater provides the heat and ambiance of a fireplace.
The logs for the house were cut on site using a portable sawmill.
