Energy Efficient Home, East Machias, Maine

The preliminary design phase for Pat & Andy Beres’ energy efficient home plans have been completed for their vacation home to be built on in East Machias, Maine (just a stone’s throw from Canada). We met at the Log & Timber Frame Home Show in Springfield, Massachusetts this spring and had a chance to talk to the couple about their plans to build a small green home for vacationing on beautiful Hadley Lake.

Wanting to build a home that was both energy efficient and comfortable in all seasons, Pat and Andy expressed their desires and ideas with Green Architect Jeremy Bonin and his wife, Executive Project Manager Kimberly Bonin here at our office one weekend in April while they were on their way to Maine.

An existing cabin will remain near the road as guest quarters. The new 1,100 square foot home will be built right on the lake to take advantage of the gorgeous seasonal views and abundant wildlife.

The project’s priorities are energy efficiency, conscientiousness, durability, and security. Jeremy started the preliminary design in keeping with the site, solar access, and building orientation. The entry and kitchen are located on the south-east side of the building, granting easy access to the driveway and unloading of groceries.

Lake views are prominent to the east, south, and west, which coincides nicely with passive solar design considerations and give an excellent opportunity for a continuous porch on these elevations. Placing a minimal amount of windows on the cold north elevation, Jeremy’s intent was to keep the home warm while allowing for a planned future addition on this side.

To keep the building energy efficient, a second floor takes advantage of views from the higher elevation and also to keep the home’s footprint to a minimum, controlling costs and site impact. This divided the program into two floors – the first floor being the public space and the second floor serving as personal space for Andy and Pat.

We'll keep you posted on the progress of this terrific green home in the On The Boards section of our website. Check out the Beres' energy efficient home and other current energy efficient home plans!