Cipriani Studios is proud to announce that our first Net Zero Living design project is now complete. Using progressive solar construction and appliance technology, the Trail House is 100% energy-independent, producing enough electricity to be energy-neutral through net metering, which credits the owners for unused power sent back to the grid.

The Trail House got its names because it’s built above grade on an old creek bed, which allows the water to naturally overflow and recede throughout the year. Part of our design challenge was creating a sense of privacy on a fairly open site and creating a home that lives in harmony with the flood plain. Water can surround and even flow through the foundation if needed, as the house is built on bedrock with integrated flood vents.

The front of the house faces a walking trail and public playground, so we developed an L-shaped layout that conceals the façade, creating a sense of security. Inside, a large, open-plan common area flows out to the deck, pool and backyard, with the creek flowing below. The pool – fashioned from a recycled shipping container –  is an especially unique touch.

While the layout is open to nature and bathed in light, the main living areas – inside and out –remain invisible to the public. The client selected a program of fixtures and finishes to go with our contemporary farmhouse design, such as fieldstone and board-and-batten cladding on the outside, with rough-sawn floors and Edison fixtures throughout the interior.

If you’re searching for new modern homes in Pittsburgh or someone to help you with Pittsburgh modern home design, reach out to Cipriani Studios today for a private consultation. Our residential design services include new construction, remodeling and additions.