Building in Tucson, AZ
monicaroebuck| Posted inGreen Building Techniqueson
We are looking to build a home on acreage in Tucson, AZ. I have heard and read different options on the most energy efficient techniques for warm weather climates. Is there a builder, or consultant that anyone would recommend? Any college programs that are looking for a project to work on?
GBA Detail Library
A collection of one thousand construction details organized by climate and house part
Search and download construction details
Replies
Hi Monicaroebuck.
The closest connections I have to your climate are in Austin, TX, Peter Pfeiffer (architect) and Matt Risinger (builder). There's another top notch architect in Santa Fe, NM, Needbased Inc. They're doing lots of Passive House and energy-efficient stuff. I know that's a much different climate, but they may have experience in the more southern parts of the state. You'll easily find them all with a Google search.
Awesome! Thank you!
Look up Armando Cobo, I believe he’s a consultant in Albuquerque NM with experience in your climate. He’s a frequent poster here.
I would also recommend looking at Mandalay Homes and Meritage Homes in the Phoenix area. They both build Net Zero production homes, and therefore would be a great example of cost effective levels of efficient construction in your climate.
You definitely want to iron everything out in the planning stage and bring your subcontractors onboard early to collaborate on the final design. You should get a 3rd party to run a Manual J heating/cooling load during final design stages to properly plan for an efficient, well installed HVAC system and ventilation system.
Dave