Event Description

Join NESEA for a summer Pro Tour of a 1782 Vermont Farmhouse that recently completed a zero-energy retrofit and expansion in beautiful Reading, Vermont. This project combines an energy retrofit on a historic Cape and a high-performance vernacular addition built off-site to create a net zero energy building with reduced embodied carbon.

The building was designed to blend into its rural setting, connect the living spaces to the surrounding landscape, and serve the diverse programming needs of the clients: aging in place, family gatherings, and hosting groups ranging from 10-40+ people for community-building events and smaller retreat experiences.

This 4181 sq. ft. square-foot building features updated hydronics, appliances, an air-water heat pump, EV charging, whose energy use is balanced via on-site photovoltaic electrical generation. Heating, cooling, and domestic hot water will be supplied by a single air to water heat pump. The choice of hydronics, combined with the dramatic increase in thermal performance of the original structure, allows for the reuse of radiators in the original house.

The event will begin with an opening presentation from the hosting team, which will give attendees background on the original structure, the design and build of the addition, and the overall approach to meeting client sustainability goals. After the opening presentation, we'll split into groups to hear from the professionals behind the project, who will share their specific work. After the tour, there will be a reception and Q&A with the team.