Architect Tessa Smith and interior designer Roussa Cassel recently returned from the North American Passive House Network (NAPHN) Annual Conference...and some stomping around New York City in summer style.
This annual event is a powerhouse of more than 750 leaders in the Passive House movement. It featured some great new products, mechanical systems, window options, and new installation and siding choices, some of which we may use in the future of our work here in the northwest.
The North American Passive House Network
Tessa Smith spoke at the conference, sharing about "Thermally Broken Detailing" and how it differs from coast to coast, being affected by seismic zones, weather patterns and material availability. Her work and expertise on this specific topic were included in the NAPHN 2016 book, which you can check out here.
As attendees, the pair was inspired by the amazing work taking place in New York, where a 27-storey Passive House dormitory for Cornell Tech is under construction. This will be the tallest Passive House in the world, and many other cities are starting to realize the great value and importance of this form of sustainable building. New York City is definitely taking the lead in this, with their Mayor Bill de Blasio issuing a call to action in his policy report One City: Built to Last. In regards to the Cornell project, he said, “Passive House makes sense as a phrase, but I think it is an activist notion – a transformative notion…This is one example of how New York City can show the world a model that works in today’s reality.” We want to see the politicians of Olympia, Portland and Seattle catch the same spirit as Mayor de Blasio!
And how can you be in New York City and not revel in its beauty, history and architecture. The ladies had a blast touring the Whitney Modern Art Museum and enjoying the NYC nightlife.
About Artisans Group
The Artisans Group specializes in building and remodeling some of the finest eco-friendly and energy-efficient homes in the Seattle & Olympia area. We are an eclectic band of uniquely talented Pacific Northwest architects, designers, craftsman, and managers with a shared passion for home design. Passive Houses are our niche, and we provide the simplest solutions to guarantee comfort and durability in home design while providing soulful beauty. Our mantra, 'Advanced Homes Made Elegant', succinctly captures the art and passion of our design and build team, as well as all remodel projects. This design philosophy is a dedication you can feel and a finesse in architecture that always proves stunning.
Posted on July 08, 2016
