2015 Solar Decathlon: Reflect Home

Project Details

Project Description

For its first U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon, California State University, Sacramento, is radically rethinking the design of the American starter home with Reflect Home. Designed to meet the needs of residents in Sacramento's Mediterranean climate, Reflect maintains traditional aesthetics without sacrificing ease of use for its occupants. Reflect aspires to bridge the gap between home buyers and sustainable living and redefine the paradigm for the future.

Sacramento State's approach to building an affordable, ultra-efficient house involves simple but effective modifications to traditional architectural elements. The gabled roof will appeal to traditional tastes, and the offset levels and slopes will allow natural daylight and an open floor plan. An expansive deck will encourage outdoor living, and numerous planters will create a closer relationship with nature. Inside, two bedrooms provide the flexibility of having two sleeping rooms or a separate workspace. And a porch off the master bedroom is a private retreat for the homeowners.

Reflect Home is designed to redefine the American starter home. It is efficient and practical yet elegant in its design. Thus, the American starter home can become the American dream home.


Animated walk-through: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M6DYXDJRuxE
Team website: http://www.solarnest.org/