Celebrating traditional Caymanian architecture with a modern twist and emphasis on sustainability, the homeowners’ passion for fishing, cooking and entertaining are embodied throughout their home.
Studio Name: Equiterra Regenerative Design
Year: 2017
Location: Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands
Consultants: AMR Consulting Engineers, Corporate Electric Ltc,
Contractor: Joe’s Construction
Photography Credits: Patrick Coulie Architectural Photography
After a great day of fishing, the boat is tied up to its mooring cleats and the day’s catch is dressed at the cleaning station on the dock. Dinner is prepared in the stylish indoor kitchen, while fish grills outside. The doors in the central living space are open allowing friends and family to mingle inside and out while enjoying views of the canal over the unbroken line of an infinity-edge pool.
Practical sustainability is fundamental to the design of this home. The objective was to create a simple and cost-effective building envelope, so resources could be invested in interior finishes, sustainability and entertainment features. Infrastructure for future enhancements, including PV and atmospheric water harvesting, were planned and implemented. This home demonstrates that a stylish and sustainable custom home can be cost effective and realize the Caymanian lifestyle.
Sustainability Features
- LEED Gold certified
- HERS Index of 42 (this home uses 58% less energy than a standard house)
- Over 19,000 gallon cistern provides all water for landscaping and flushing toilets and can provide an emergency water supply during a hurricane
- Materials are all low VOC which contributes to good indoor air quality
- The HVAC system uses MERV 13 filters (the highest rating typically used in residential construction)
- Reduction of Carbon Dioxide – 6.7 tons/year
- Reduction of Sulfur Dioxide – 24.7 lbs/year
- Reduction of Nitrogen Oxides – 11.5 lbs/year
- Overhangs on the south side provide shaded outdoor space and block summer sun, helping to reduce cooling needs
- A Trades Training kicked off construction to educate the Owner, Contractor and Subcontractors about LEED and building science
- LED lighting throughout
- Planned 7.8 kW PV array will allow the house to operate at electric net zero
