This project consisted of a 2 1/2 boat garage, a master bedroom suite, an elevator, a kitchen remodel, and miscellaneous spaces. I was able to squeeze it onto their lot under the existing zoning, integrate it with the existing house and the neighborhood, and keep some back yard.

I recently completed training to become a Passive House Consultant. The training covered Passive House fundamentals, building science, and relevant software. This gives me the knowledge to design these near-zero-energy buildings, including residences, commercial buildings, and remodels.

As some of you may know, I have been co-hosting a radio program, Organic Lifestyle, on Lake County community radio station KPFZ. On September 4, 2010, we devoted the hour to a discussion of the Passive House concept.

I have recently taken classes in various aspects of energy use, conservation, and design. This is something that I know I must do to maintain my status as an expert on green building as technology improves.

Positive Net Energy Homes — The Passive House Concept

A professional couple in Clearlake Riviera needed to enlarge their house for their growing family, so they enlisted my help. Their needs: a new master bedroom suite, an office, some reconfiguring of existing interior space, and a surface for a solar array. When they came to me they knew what they wanted as far as the space layout, but needed help pulling the project together.

The High Valley Vineyard Tasting Room is now open at 13151 Highway 20 in Clearlake Oaks. Call (707) 799-5523 for business hours and other information.

After completing a course in seismic design given by the American Society of Civil Engineers, I am able to perform structural calculations on wood-frame construction under the current building code. As the City of Clearlake is requiring structural review by an architect or engineer for all house plan submittals, this is another arena where I may be of service.

On September 13, David Lark spoke on the Fresh Energy Hour program on Lake County community radio station KPFZ, focusing on the subject of passively conditioned houses. This program contained a conceptual overview of the subject in addition to technical information. You may download the full broadcast here (14MB Ogg Vorbis file). KPFZ also makes CD copies available of all their programming.

I performed much of the design and production work for this project while working for Ernst Architects. This private residence, for a retired couple, was greatly in need of reconstruction, especially given today's energy costs. It is now a wonderful place to live, and serves as a vacation spot for their extended family.

I have implemented a new website based on a Content Management System, which offers greatly enhanced capabilities compared to static web pages. This offers improved appearance, more convenience for viewers and authors, and more possibilities for interaction with clients and team members. I welcome your opinions about the site.