When craftsmanship, fine architecture and high performance collide, the result is this beautiful custom home. The house is designed by STARK Architecture, a Squamish based architectural and interior design firm, renowned for their unique modern creations. The builder, Postle Construction is about mid-way through the build.

Postle Construction is self-described as “a high-end residential builder located in Vancouver, specializing in detailed driven and modern projects”. Detail being the prominent word here, their work is clearly thorough. They bring a wealth of over seven decades experience to each project, using reliable building techniques to create contemporary, comfortable and stylish custom homes.

We decided to showcase this home, mainly because we just couldn’t resist, but also because it exceeded the criteria for a high-performance home. We recently completed the post-drywall air tightness test on the house and it scored a jaw-dropping 0.49 ACH (air changes per hour).

We at CHE have been involved since the pre-permit energy modeling phase. The project target: Step 5 of the BC Energy Step Code. The home is set to achieve the highest level of the new Zero Carbon Step Code; Emissions Level 4, “Zero Carbon”. Amazingly, they are achieving this even though the home was started before the Province of BC introduced the Zero Carbon Step Code.

To add to the list of accomplishments, the home is also aiming to be Zero-Rated with a projected EnerGuide rating of 0 GJ/yr, this means the home should produce as much on-site renewable energy as it consumes on an annual basis.

Other highlights include:

– Foundation: R-45 under slab insulation + effective R-31 ICF
– Above grade walls: effective R-42
– Ceilings: effective R-68
– Windows: triple glazed <1.0 USI 0.25 SHGC
– Heating: ductless mini-split air source heat pump
– Domestic hot water: Integrated heat pump electric hot water tank
– Ventilation: HRV
– Renewable: Solar PV array, annual on-site renewable production of 48 GJ/yr

What more can we say? We love this home! Congratulations STARK and Postle Construction! – (Instagram accounts of our dreams)

Stay tuned for more updates on the project, and make sure to follow us on Instagram too.

Happy Leap Day!