This article first appeared in the November/December 2024 issue of Pro Builder.
Located in Breckenridge, Colo., The Panorama Idea Home is a 6,600-square-foot net-zero, carbon-neutral home that achieves ambitious performance goals in an undeniably harsh climate. “If we can build to those standards here,” the home's builder, Gene Myers of Thrive Home Builders, in Denver, says, “it can be done anywhere.”
The design and construction team undertook a rigorous process to make sure the home would achieve its performance goals. That included taking a deep dive into calculating the home’s carbon footprint, followed by careful review of every material, component, and system to ensure the final product would meet the carbon-neutral standard.
Scroll down to see some of the sponsored products used in the home that help it meet its net zero energy and carbon-neutral goals.
JobSight Pro Camera from Bedrock Wireless
The JobSight Pro camera from Bedrock Wireless offers 360-degree coverage with four camera angles to provide security on construction sites. The camera is designed for a wide range of environments, operating effectively in temperatures from –40° F to 120° F, according to the maker. It has a viewing distance of 150 feet during the day and 75 feet at night, thanks to its built-in infrared capabilities. Users can access live feeds 24/7 through data.bedrockwireless.com, allowing for unlimited AI-based recording of people and vehicles. Additionally, the system sends automated email or push notifications in case of power loss.
Carbon Offsetting Solution from CNaught
CNaught is a platform that enables carbon-neutral construction through the purchase of carbon offsetting credits. Purchases can be made in quantities ranging from 1 kilogram to 20,000 tonnes of CO2, with each purchase distributed across various geographies, technologies, and categories.
HardieZone HZ5 Fiber-Cement Siding from James Hardie
James Hardie’s HardieZone HZ5 fiber-cement siding is tailored to specific climate zones for optimal performance. HZ5 siding excels in areas with freezing temperatures, snow, and ice, and extreme temperature changes, the company says, resisting shrinking, swelling, and cracking.
DuPont’s Tyvek DrainWrap
DuPont’s Tyvek DrainWrap provides a durable water-resistant barrier for residential projects. Vertical grooves channel water away from wall systems, improving drainage and directing moisture outside. Tyvek DrainWrap works well behind wood cladding, fiber-cement siding, and foam board applied over flat substrates, the company says.
DoorBird’s A1101 IP Video Indoor Station
The DoorBird A1101 IP Video Indoor Station is designed for front door surveillance and operation in both single-family homes and apartment buildings. Available in a black or white finish, the device features two-way audio with noise reduction and echo cancellation, along with a live video feed displayed on a 4-inch true-color touch screen. The central control unit also provides access to various home automation functions, including door lock and gate control.
Treo Smooth Pavers from Unilock
Unilock’s Treo Smooth pavers bring a sleek, modern look and a contemporary color palette to patio projects and driveways. A smaller format and random bundle design provide versatility during installation, and wide joints between pavers support permeable installations, helping manage water runoff. Four colors are available.
Curbless Shower Pan from KurbX
The curbless shower pan from KurbX enables seamless, zero-step entry. Featuring a proprietary drain and a patented support blocking system, installation takes just four steps, the maker says. With its unique design, the pan can be installed on any substrate, and its textured surface allows easy adhesion of waterproofing materials.
Multi-Zone Outdoor Units from Mitsubishi Electric Trane HVAC US
Multi-zone outdoor units from Mitsubishi Electric Trane HVAC US are available as standard heat pumps or H2i hyper-heating models that provide temperature control across multiple rooms. The units can connect to as many as eight indoor units, allowing for different temperatures in each area. Inverter-driven compressors adjust energy use as needed to maintain comfortable temperatures.
Savant’s Power Storage 20
The Savant Power Storage 20 is a smart energy system that integrates into a connected home or building. Offering control through its user-friendly app, the system features a scalable inverter and LFP (lithium iron phosphate) battery system. It also provides flexible storage capacity, ranging from 12.5 kW to 125 kW, with energy outputs from 20 kWh to 200 kWh.
Greenheck’s SYNC180 Energy Recovery Ventilator
Greenheck’s SYNC180 Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV) helps bring fresh air into the home without incurring high energy costs. The ERV works hand in hand with Greenheck’s Haven monitor, which signals the ERV when fresh air ventilation is necessary. By transferring energy from the exhaust air to the incoming fresh air, the system moderates the temperature of the incoming air, reducing heating expenses. The SYNC180 ERV is equipped with an electronically commutated (EC) motor that uses variable-speed technology to improve indoor air quality.
Wellborn Cabinet’s Aspire Line of Cabinetry
Wellborn Cabinet’s Aspire full-access frameless cabinets offer added storage space with a contemporary look in a variety of finishes, door styles, and materials. For added functionality, all cabinets also feature concealed soft-close door hinges.
Statement Ves Showerhead from Kohler
Kohler’s Statement Ves variable-flow showerhead delivers a balanced, full-coverage spray with 360-degree rotation. The showerhead also features a sculpted spray face that complements most contemporary bathrooms, and the adjustable flow lever makes it easy for homeowners to conserve water, the maker says.
Jeld-Wen’s Siteline Clad-Wood Windows
Jeld-Wen’s Siteline clad-wood windows help reduce energy costs while keeping homes comfortable, regardless of weather, the company says. The windows feature triple-pane, low-E glass designed to maximize solar heat gain in south-facing windows while preserving warmth indoors.
