design / build  : :  LEED Platinum  : :  material innovation

Studio 804 is a non-profit design/build associated with the University of Kansas. The group, consisting of graduate students, uses thorough research of sustainable building practices as well as cutting edge technology and materials to produce environmentally friendly design.

In the last six months of my graduate year, twenty-two of us designed and built 3716 Springfield as an off-the-grid sustainable, 2500-sqft. home. It was the first LEED Platinum residence constructed in the state of Kansas, which was achieved through both passive and active technologies including: solar panels, wind turbine, geothermal heat pump, cross ventilation, a high performance glazing system, concrete thermal mass and radiant heating, and rainwater harvesting.

While everyone threw in a helping hand in every stage of design and construction, each person was responsible for one thing - I was accountable for the roof. Exhaustive research of systems led to the choice of a standing seam metal roof, which was especially helpful in rainwater collection. Below the metal is a self-adhering underlayment that allows the metal to expand and contract without damage. And above is a weaving system of S-5 clips holding PV solar panels as well as horizontal battens that carry the FSC-certified Cumaru rainscreen. There are also three skylights installed on the north side of the roof to aid air circulation. Each panel, skylight, and piece of wood was installed by hand. Materials were tested for long-term compatibility and industry professionals were consulted for proper installation.

location  |  Kansas City, KS

type  |  Private Residence

year  |  2009