Requests for simplicity and speed of construction resulted in our Panel Play house designed specifically for SIPs (Structural Insulated Panels). Natural light filters down from the central clerestory windows to the loft and then on to the primary living area on the first floor. Our clients wanted to combine energy-efficiency with a home that has room for their young family to expand. A centrally located wood stove warms the house on cold winter days. The entry of the Panel Play is on the south side of the home. A detached deck or screened gazebo is planned for the cooler, north creek side of the home.

Requests for simplicity and speed of construction resulted in our Panel Play house designed specifically for SIPs (Structural Insulated Panels). Natural light filters down from the central clerestory windows to the loft and then on to the primary living area on the first floor. Our clients wanted to combine energy-efficiency with a home that has room for their young family to expand. A centrally located wood stove warms the house on cold winter days. The entry of the Panel Play is on the south side of the home. A detached deck or screened gazebo is planned for the cooler, north creek side of the home.

First Floor

The entry for guests is centered on the dining room and near the away room which could be a home office. The family entry near the laundry, with ample storage and work space, brings you into the opposite end of the home. The kitchen and living room have vaulted ceilings that help take advantage of the natural light from the clerestory. The catwalk above breaks up the volume. The master bedroom and bath are on the private end of the house with views to nature. Bedrooms 2 and 3 share a split bath that is also designed to be a bath for guests in order to minimize the number of plumbing fixtures. Keeping the children's toys or homework in one place will be simple in the children's playroom.

Second Floor Loft

A spacious loft spans the entire second floor! It is open and airy with operable windows that can be easily reached, and exhaust fans mounted on either end to help cool the house without air conditioning. Left open, with the views to the first floor, the loft adds character to the house overall and provides a perfect area for artists, kids, or overnight guests with still plenty of storage tucked under the eaves. With areas closed off, the uses are endless! The loft takes advantage of the space under the roof that is often lost to dead attic space in many homes.

Optional Detached Carport

Our client intends for the detached carport to house the PV panels on the roof and batteries in the storage area. The carport also provides covered outdoor space for entertaining and parties.

Construction Info

Both the 9' walls and roof are designed to be constructed with SIP's. (www.thermocore.com supplied the panels with the high density insulation) Numerous posts and beams support the panels. A concrete slab foundation provides the thermal mass necessary for storing the sun's free heat and minimizing temperature swings year-round.

Modification Ideas

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

- Connect the carport or garage to the side near the laundry
- Build the house with studs and rafters instead if you have the extra time needed for attention to insulation and caulking details
- Turn the play room into a 4th bedroom by adding a closet

Read more about the drawings available for various Sun Plans.

Custom Energy Specs that describe any recommended adaptations for your climate – insulation values, glass type for the various windows, overhang lengths.