High Performance

Old Grist Mill

The goals for this retrofit were to repurpose a building and its materials in a thoughtful way, to make it as energy efficient as possible, and to minimize its carbon footprint. This deep energy retrofit of an1850 mill building on the Westfield River was super-insulated, airtight, and able to completely dry if flooding occurs (as we experienced during Hurricane Irene in late August 2011). To manage future flood events, the building is insulated with mineral wool (that will drain and dry out) and removable wall panels allow for increased drying if encroachment by the Westfield River occurs.  Old roof boards were reused as flooring, and chimney bricks made a new walkway. This Old Grist Mill is now East Branch Studio’s headquarters.

 

Kent Hicks Construction Co Inc - passive house, reduce energy consumption, deep energy retrofits, net zero, prefabricated homes, prefab homes, net zero ready, healthy homes, net zero homes, green building, affordable green prefab homes, passive house builders, energy efficient homes, building a new home

Before Reconstruction

Kent Hicks Construction Co Inc - passive house, reduce energy consumption, deep energy retrofits, net zero, prefabricated homes, prefab homes, net zero ready, healthy homes, net zero homes, green building, affordable green prefab homes, passive house builders, energy efficient homes, building a new home

Kent Hicks Construction Co Inc - passive house, reduce energy consumption, deep energy retrofits, net zero, prefabricated homes, prefab homes, net zero ready, healthy homes, net zero homes, green building, affordable green prefab homes, passive house builders, energy efficient homes, building a new home

Reconstruction Process

Complete Retrofit

 

 

 

TEAM
Design: East Branch Studio
Structural Engineer: Ryan Helwig and John Wallen
Photography: Lynne Graves, interior shots

 

PRODUCTS
Windows/Doors: Schuco from European Architectural Supply
Heating/Cooling: Fujitsu