The client wanted an energy-efficient, attractive commercial building that fit into the surrounding neighborhood of antique New England homes. The space requirements dictated a building that was larger than a residence. So a “barn-sized” structure was designed to satisfy both the functional and aesthetic requirements.

The barn is designed with a heavy timber frame. Stress skin panels surround the frame with a highly insulated shell that is very airtight. The roof is covered in standing seam metal and the sides are covered in white cedar shingles. Energy Star fiberglass windows complete the exterior.

There is an 18 kilowatt photovoltaic system on the south-facing roof that powers the lighting, office equipment, and an electric boiler. Excess electrical power is sold back to the utility. It is hoped that the annual expenditure for electricity will be net zero when combined with their new home.