Section showing sustainable initiatives

The American Institute of Architects (AIA) and its Committee on the Environment (COTE) have announced that the Special NO 9 House designed by Philadelphia-based architects KieranTimberlake, with New Orleans firm John C. Williams Architects as executive architect, has been named a ‘Top Ten Green Project' for 2010. The house is one of thirteen single-family homes designed by prominent architectural firms for Make It Right, an organization founded by actor Brad Pitt to provide storm-resistant, affordable, and sustainable housing for the residents of New Orleans' Lower Ninth Ward displaced by Hurricane Katrina. The COTE Top Ten Green Projects program, now in its 14th year, celebrates projects that are the result of a thoroughly integrated approach to architecture, natural systems and technology.

Designed to be cost effective and sustainable at a significant price point, the Special NO 9 House outperforms the typical American home in energy and health through the efficient application of better insulation, efficient systems, and non-toxic materials. It is highly energy efficient with a Home Energy Rating (HERS) index of 35, with the simulation model consuming 65% less energy relative to a comparable home in the same climate. This score reflects a persuasive move in the direction of carbon neutrality by surpassing the 2030 Challenge energy target for 2010 of a 60% reduction in energy consumption.

This high level of performance is achieved through a well constructed envelope, an efficient HVAC system, and a building orientation that limits most solar exposure during the warmest months. Solar heat gains are further moderated by a trellis system along the south side of the house that provides direct shading and is intended to become fully vegetated for additional solar protection and to create a habitat for native species. Large operable windows provide natural light, views, and ventilation, offering occupants a deep connection to the outside world. Other energy saving features include a roof mounted photovoltaic array, heating and cooling provided by a geothermal pump, and rainwater cisterns for non-potable water. A full brief is available on the AIA COTE Top Ten website.

To support Make It Right's goal of rebuilding 150 homes in the Lower Ninth Ward, the Special NO 9 House is poised for mass production. The first Special NO 9 Houses were constructed on-site using some panelized methods, and in May 2010 the first Special NO 9 House using factory-built, modular components will be constructed by Make It Right. The COTE Top Ten jurors commended the design for its "high level of achievement at a modest price," and for "integrating climate and cultural responsiveness to bring something unique to the place." To date, all of the completed homes have been certified as LEED Platinum and the Make It Right community is now the "largest, greenest neighborhood of single family homes in America," according to the U.S. Green Building Council.

The Special NO 9 House is the third KieranTimberlake project to be given ‘Top Ten Green' status, along with the Sidwell Friends Middle School in Washington, DC, and the Yale University Sculpture Building and School of Art Gallery in New Haven, CT.