Site Work: Formwork Installation
Once the underslab insulation was installed we proceeded with installing the foundation formwork, another process that was rather simple and quick. For the foundation of the building we will be using a grade beam system, similar to a slab on grade. To create the grade beam, we used prefabricated, insulated formwork called: insulated concrete forms… Read more »
Site Work: Underslab Insulation Installed
The flowable fill discussed previously has created a quick, even pad on which a layer of high-density expanded polystyrene insulation is installed. The insulation sheets come in large sizes – 4’ x 16’ x 6” thick – making them quick and easy to install. Our total installation time with only two people involved was about… Read more »
Site Work: Pad Completed
As with any building, creating a solid foundation is important as it provides the base for the rest of the structure. In order to improve the thermal performance of the building, as well as reduce construction costs, a slab on grade foundation was designed for the prototype. Typical residential foundations consist of concrete foundation walls… Read more »
Site Work: Trenching for Utilities
Despite this spring’s torrential rains, excavation for the utilities and the driveway proceeded rapidly. By restricting the footprint of the utility work and quickly replacing the topsoil in disturbed areas, we prevented the site from deteriorating into an unworkable mud pit. It was decided early on in the project to have all the utilities enter… Read more »
Site Work: Building Location
The building site for the prototype was chosen for its gently rolling topography, open space and proximity to Belfast’s downtown. The three acre lot was previously used as a hay field and woodlot, but in the recent years has only been maintained as a meadow. This gently sloping landscape allows for inexpensive, low-impact construction, while… Read more »
Sustainable Sites Approach: Ann Kearsley Design
Pay attention. Start by noticing. Start with the land, with the field; start with that drift of milkweed, monarch magnet; with the flattened grass ovals of deer beds; start with the lupine near the ledge outcrop, protected from the bush hog blades by the jagged stone or maybe by the mower’s annual remembering, his choosing… Read more »