Aera

Nature abounds with free energy and processes which can be used to cool, heat, ventilate, and power our homes more efficiently and sustainably.

In the face of extreme heat brought on by climate change, traditional cooling methods using HVAC systems often result in exorbitant costs, high greenhouse gas emissions and poor indoor air quality.

Our models combine the latest energy solutions, healthy materials and sustainable architecture to effectively manage temperature, moisture, VOCs (volatile organic compounds), and ensure a constant flow of clean, fresh air within our living spaces.

High Performance Envelope

Efficient insulation and airtightness play a vital role in the high-performance envelope of a sustainable building:

Insulation

Proper insulation minimizes heat transfer through walls, roofs, and floors, reducing the need for heating and cooling. High-quality insulation materials maintain comfortable indoor temperatures and contribute to long-term energy savings.

Airtightness

Ensuring airtight building envelopes prevents unwanted air leaks, which can lead to energy losses and reduced comfort. An airtight structure enhances thermal performance, reduces drafts, and improves indoor air quality.

Thermal Windows

Using energy-efficient windows with low-emissivity (low-E) coatings and high thermal resistance further enhances the building's thermal performance. These windows reduce heat gain in hot weather and heat loss during colder months, maintaining a more stable and comfortable indoor environment.

Power

Onsite Renewable Energy

Onsite renewable energy sources, such as solar roofs, significantly reduce monthly utility bills and greenhouse gas emissions. Solar roofs generate electric current, which can be stored and used for various purposes. The heat generated by the glass panels can also be utilized for direct hot water usage, indoor heating, or energy storage, further lowering utility costs.

High Efficiency Energy Use

Monitoring and Automation

Implementing smart building systems and automation technologies allows for precise monitoring and control of energy use. Sensors and algorithms optimize energy efficiency by adjusting heating, cooling, lighting, and other systems based on occupancy patterns and environmental conditions.

High Performance Appliances and Lighting

Selecting energy-efficient appliances and LED lighting further reduces energy consumption. Energy Star-rated appliances and efficient lighting solutions contribute to lower utility bills and decreased overall energy demand.

Full Solar Roof

Roofs made of all photovoltaic panels, no shingles.
Generate 200% more energy than you need and sell it back to the grid.

Cooling

Natural Ventilation

Leveraging natural cross ventilation through well-placed openings allows fresh air to circulate, reducing the need for energy-intensive mechanical cooling systems. This approach not only improves indoor air quality but also offers substantial cost savings.

Thermal Mass

Incorporating stone or other high thermal mass materials outdoors helps fend off heat by absorbing it during the day and releasing it at night, maintaining cooler temperatures inside.

Trees and Roof Overhangs

Strategically planting trees and incorporating large roof overhangs provide shade, reducing solar heat gain and utilizing evapotranspiration to bring in cooler air.

Natural Ventilation

Heating

Radiant Floor Heating

Radiant floor heating maximizes energy efficiency by using water's high thermal mass to conduct and retain heat. Coupled with stone floor finishes, it ensures a more consistent and cost-effective heating solution compared to HVAC or traditional heat pumps.

Heat Pumps

By integrating heat recovery and utilizing mini-split zoning, heat pumps can perform more efficiently. Pairing them with solar energy systems further lowers costs, especially with properly oriented full solar roofs.

Trees and Roof Overhangs

Strategically planting trees and incorporating large roof overhangs provide shade, reducing solar heat gain and utilizing evapotranspiration to bring in cooler air.

Radiant Floor Heating

Heat materials, not air. At least 25% more efficient than HVAC.

Automatically regulate indoor temperatures
by using the high thermal mass of stone.

Keep your home cool with natural ventilation
and motorized shading.

Raised Technical Floor

Zero maintenance.

All technical systems run in the raised floor,
making pipes and wires directly accessible.

Never tear open a wall again.

Water

Rainwater Harvesting

Capturing and storing rainwater for non-potable uses, such as irrigation, toilet flushing, and laundry, reduces reliance on municipal water supplies and conserves precious freshwater resources.

Grey Water Recycling

Monitoring and Automation

High Performance Appliances and Lighting

Treating and reusing greywater from sinks, showers, and laundry for irrigation or other non-potable purposes reduces overall water consumption and wastewater generation.