“Through a combination of restrained alteration and thoughtful editing, this project models an exemplary transformation of an existing building into a modern, environmentally responsive, high-performance structure. We hope this house serves as precedent for future adaptive reuse and preservation projects.”
— Jeff Goldstein, FAIA
Location Austin
Client Farmer Family
Architect Forge Craft Architecture + Design & Hugh Jefferson Randolph Architects
Design Team Trey Farmer, AIA; Hugh Jefferson Randolph, AIA; Adrienne Farmer
Contractor CleanTag
Interior Design Studio Ferme
Structural Engineer Lester Jay Germanio
MEP Engineer Positive Energy
Commissioning Consultants Positive Energy, ATS
HVAC Installer New Results
Solar Installer Freedom Solar
Landscape Architect Austin Outdoor Design
Irrigation Wilson Irrigation
Theresa Passive House is a renovation and addition that blends the historic preservation of a 1914 bungalow with a modern volume and sustainable design. The 2,100-sf home is located on a small urban lot and exhibits a connection to both its active neighborhood and the calm of nature. Passive design principles and curated views of downtown, tree canopies, and the surrounding permaculture garden are combined with a warm, minimalist aesthetic to inspire feelings of well-being in the home. Rigorous objectives in energy efficiency, indoor air quality, thermal comfort, embodied carbon, and responsible materials sourcing were prioritized throughout design and construction.