Floors throughout the house are constructed of concrete, Styrofoam panels, and metal rebar. “The floor is 18 inches thick, so the house is built sort of like a bomb shelter,” Ken says. A four-foot grid pattern was cut into the concrete and floors were stained a
warm rust color, with a satin-sheen water-based sealer protecting them. “Architecturally, the uniform floor gives a nice flow of space and continuity of materials,” Ken says. Wool area rugs and changing ceiling heights define different living spaces.

The house’s hydro-in-floor heating system is powered by a European-made boiler that also heats the family’s water. “It’s one of the most efficient boilers on the market today,” Ken says. “And it’s very compact—about the size of a small file cabinet.” The in-floor heat is divided into seven zones, each with its own thermostat so areas of the house can be adjusted to different heat levels. The house does have a backup forced-air system with ductwork, primarily to power the home’s air conditioning.

The Dahlins’ house was completed in late 2004, and since that time there has been enormous growth in green design. Alternative construction techniques such as ICF and prefab building are gaining acceptance with builders, Ken says, and so is going green.

Some more smart ideas incorporated in the Dahlins’ house:

• Fresh air flows thanks to an Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV) that exchanges indoor and outdoor air and also filters indoor allergens and pollutants (broan.com).

• Daylighting and ventilation is provided by remote-operable skylights in the kitchen and above the fireplace mantel (veluxusa.com).

Sources:
Table (“Metropolitan Collection Straight-Leg Dining table’’ #7744 in #718 Morris Plains stain on cherry); dining chairs (#330): Stickley Furniture, 315/682-5500, stickley.com.
Wall sconces: Hubbardton Forge, 800/826-4766, vtforge.com.
Table runner: owner’s collection.