The Equinox 4 is a simpler, more energy efficient variation of our popular Equinox 3. The front is designed to face south and there are ample porches and decks on the other three sides for outdoor living. The basement has been removed which allows for more thermal mass floors on the main level. The one story front makes the house even more inviting. Removing the stairs give you even more room in the sunny breakfast bay window and nearby den.

First Floor

What a surprise when you enter the front door as the front south facing living areas all have vaulted ceilings and will receive full winter sun, while the bedrooms are on the cool north side of the home. There are two main living areas of the home so that one side can be the quiet one. You can choose based on the children and TV locations of your family. The den and breakfast side will feel like a sunroom in the morning with the bay window that captures both morning and afternoon light. The master suite has its own private deck and an optional door to the laundry room. (The west bedroom could also open out to a side porch.) The side laundry makes it convenient to the optional garage location and for outside clothes drying.

Garage

There are several options for the garage. Suggested layouts include placing it to the west or to the north east. In both places it can be detached or partially attached with a small connecting hall.

Construction Info

The Equinox 4 is designed to be constructed with a trussed roof and 6" stud walls. Many of our clients have their builders use SIP (structural insulated panels) or ICF (insulated concrete forms) instead. The first floor has 9' ceilings with the south first floor rooms vaulted. The thermal mass is primarily in the floors since the foundation is a concrete slab so the mass walls are not needed unless you require wood floors. The concrete mass floors can be covered in stone, tile, brick pavers, or concrete stains for an old marble look.

Modification Ideas

Since these ideas may affect energy performance and structural integrity, they should only be undertaken with professional assistance.

- Install active solar systems on the roof as shown. They can be photovoltaic and/or solar hot water. - Move the laundry to the center of the home to give the master bedroom or bath eastern windows for morning sun
- Increase south glass with a clerestory designed to go between the roof trusses
- Move the main entry to the east and turn the living area into another large bedroom or home office.

Read more about the drawings available for various Sun Plans.