Ellery by Paltrin LLC

The Ellery project redefined innovation by proving that achieving rigorous Zero Energy Ready performance is possible using readily available materials and cost-conscious strategies, without compromising on comfort, efficiency, or resilience. Our core innovation lies in the intelligent integration of passive design, optimized active systems, and constructible details that were planned and executed within budget. Below is a summary:

Passive Solar Mastery & Thermal Mass Optimization: 

1. Strategic Orientation & Glazing: The home’s longest dimension faces due south, featuring abundant high-SHGC (0.53) glazing. We looked at sun angle analysis and identified that a 3’6" overhang worked with the truss structure while being enough to provide passive solar heat gain in winter while eliminating unwanted summer heat.
2. Concrete as a thermal storage: The polished concrete floor was intentionally exposed, acting as a thermal mass to absorb and slowly release passive solar heat, stabilizing indoor temperatures and enhancing winter comfort naturally. 

Constructability & Efficiency Innovations: 

1. Mechanical Chase: We created a dedicated, accessible chase above the ceiling and below the trusses for all ducting, plumbing, and electrical runs. This eliminated performance-killing penetrations in the airtight envelope, or the need for a crawlspace while it simplified installation and ensured optimal thermal integrity. 
2. Insulation & Aesthetic Detailing: We innovated what turned out to be a nice detail to cover our 5” of exposed EPS insulation at the door points. A custom-planed oak riser covered the rigid foam insulation, creating a beautiful, durable threshold that solves a common aesthetic challenge while maintaining thermal breaks. 

Systems Optimization & On-Site Production: 

1. Solar Production Precision: The primary south-facing roof was pitched at an ideal 39-degree angle for our latitude, maximizing annual solar energy harvest and ensuring the fully electric home could realistically achieve net-zero energy. 
2. All-Electric, and Cold-Climate Ready: We exclusively deployed high-efficiency electric technology: a cold-climate air source heat pump, high efficiency Zehnder ERV, induction range, and a heat pump washer/dryer combo, heat pump water heater with an ECM adaptive circulation pump

Proactive Water Stewardship & Modeling:

1. Water Innovations: The integrated SinkTwice toilet-topper sink reduces potable water use by repurposing handwashing water for flushing. Combined with four 50-gallon rain barrels and two functional rain gardens, the project actively manages and conserves water resources. 
2. Data-Driven Design (WUFI Modeling): We modeled using WUFI software to optimize critical details before construction. A detail that became top of mind was the ERV inlet/exhaust pipes from gable ends to soffits significantly reduced duct length, minimizing energy consumption while maximizing fresh air efficiency. 

We turned standard materials into a high-performance system, proving that Zero Energy Ready living is achievable through thoughtful design, modeling, and execution making the Ellery Project a model of accessible innovation in sustainable housing.