Zero Energy Ready Home Design+Building | Energy Star® built

 What is the difference between Green Building and Zero Energy Ready Building | Energy Star® building methods

A "green building" refers to a  structure designed to minimize its environmental impact by using  sustainable materials and energy-efficient practices throughout its  lifecycle, while a "zero energy ready" building is specifically designed and built to produce as much energy as it consumes over a year, or rather being ready to do so if the owner of the project is not quite ready to go all in with the net zero energy process. Often times this is also referred to as being "near net zero", and basically means that everything has been done to design and build a homes energy efficiency to a level of performance, that the addition of minimal solar power and domestic hot water systems will bring a home to a zero energy level of performance. 

A zero energy ready home or net zero energy home or building is typically achieved through high level methods of energy efficient construction and on-site renewable  energy generation like solar panels, essentially resulting in a net-zero  energy consumption; This means that a  green building can be energy efficient but not necessarily reach the  "zero energy" status like a zero energy ready building.

As a RESNET Energy Smart Builder, Zero Energy Ready Home partner and Energy Star® custom homes design+build company, Mountain Modern Design+Build strives to design and build our custom homes, additions and renovations to meet or exceed the "Net Zero Energy Standard. Our custom homes, additions and renovations routinely exceed this standards utilizing generally basic building methods and procedures that are readily available. We are also part of the Department of Energy Watersense and Indoor AirPlus partner programs, and out focus on a high performance building includes focusing on not only the "Net Zero Energy aspect of a home, but also on making it a healthier and more livable and sustainable home environment. Check out our projects page for our latest building projects.

Mountain Modern Design Concepts

Mountain modern architectural design and drafting, which is heavily influenced by the  natural surroundings of the mountain landscape, often incorporates  traditionally rustic elements, such as natural materials, rugged  textures, and natural light, with the clean lines, minimal  ornamentation, and integrated outdoor living spaces found in contemporary homes. This approach can be integrated into virtually any home style from ranch house to farmhouse to craftsman and more. 

 
This creates a unique blend of traditional and modern elements that is well suited to our home designs. Our homes & additions as well as other buildings we build are focused around elements that are required for Zero Energy Ready structures. Utilizing designs focused on reducing thermal bridging and creating an air tight building envelope, high performance windows and doors, energy recovery ventilated HVAC systems and heat pump water heaters or tankless systems and super cool items like solar shingles and solar domestic hot water systems are an example of items common to our design scope and specifications. Each building process is its own unique environment. 

We specialize in providing custom architectural design and construction management focused building services often referred to as design-build. Our one-stop service we believe provides a level of service that is more personal than the standard general contractor focused building contractor, though we often work in the capacity of a design-build focused general contractor as well. Our services do not stop there.

Mountain Modern Exteriors

One key element of mountain modern architecture is the use of large  overhangs and deep eaves to protect the building from the sun and snow.  This allows for greater control of natural light throughout the  interior. It also provides shading and protection from the sun, which  increases the energy efficiency of the home. Exterior living spaces are also an important aspect of the design. These  can include decks, patios, and porches, and are often designed to  seamlessly connect the indoor and outdoor parts of the home. These  outdoor spaces can be used for entertaining, relaxing, or as an  extension of the living space.  
Decks are a popular feature, particularly for timber frame homes.  They can be built on different levels, providing a variety of different  areas for various activities, such as dining, lounging, or even outdoor  cooking. They are often made of wood, to match the exposed timbers, and  may include built-in seating, fireplaces, and outdoor kitchens. Patios  are often used as an extension of the indoor living space in daylight  basements. They can be made of various materials, such as stone, pavers,  or stamped concrete. Porches  are also a common. They can be covered, to provide a protected space,  or uncovered to take advantage of the natural light and views. They can  be designed to be a transition space between the indoor and outdoor  living areas, and may include features such as rocking chairs, ceiling  fans, or even a porch swing. 

Mountain Modern Interiors

Mountain  modern interiors follow a similar aesthetic, with open floor plans,  cathedral ceilings, and large windows that invite the outdoors in. The focus here is on natural materials that help deepen the connection to  the environment. Mountain modern materials typically include:

• Wood or the more rustic look produced by wood and wood grained and textured products is a  staple in modern mountain style as well as other styles of design and building such as farmhouse.  And wood is used in a variety of ways, such  as on walls, floors, cabinetry, and furniture. Common wood choices  include reclaimed wood, barn wood, and natural wood finishes like pine,  oak, or cedar.
• Stone is a popular choice in modern  mountain style because it adds a sense of natural elegance and warmth.  It’s often used on floors, fireplaces, walls, and countertops. Common  types of stone used include granite, marble, limestone, and slate.
• Metal can add a touch of modernity to a rustic space. It’s often used  in lighting fixtures, hardware, and other accent pieces. Common types of  metal include copper, nickel, and iron.
• Textiles such  as wool, flannel, and woolen blankets are used to add a cozy, warm feel  to the space. They can be used for throws, pillows, and rugs.
• Glass - Clear glass can be used to bring in natural light and to create a  sense of openness. It’s often used in lighting fixtures, windows, and  doorways.
• Natural fibers such as jute, sisal, and  seagrass are used to add a natural touch to the space. They’re often  used for rugs, curtains, and baskets.  

At Mountain Modern Design+Build, we believe that building a home is an art form. We bring both land and land development services so that you can build on your own land as well has high performance design and building focused services for your custom home or other building requirements. From concept to completion, we approach every project with passion, creativity, and an unwavering commitment to quality. Our team of skilled professionals has the experience and expertise to bring your vision to life while delivering exceptional quality, craftsmanship, and value. Explore our website to learn more about our services, view our plans and building portfolio, and discover why we are the premier choice for Southwest Idaho High Performance Building and Zero Energy Ready Custom Home Construction Services as well as our outdoor living building systems.