Strong eco-consciousness was a solid ground for The Research Center on Zero Emission Buildings (ZEB) and architecture office, Snøhetta to unite. The idea was to construct a modern house that serves not as an energy-saver, but as an energy-producer.
The ZEB Pilot House is located in Norwegian city of Larvik and consists of photovoltaic and solar thermal panels that allow offsetting of carbon emission created by the burning of fossil fuels in power stations. This way, the house is able to supply the energy needs of the family house and power an electric car year-round, too!
The creators ensured that innovative technology wouldn’t lack an equally innovative architectural manifestation. The building strikes with its sleek minimalism: the tan tilted roof balances solar panels and daylight-inviting large windows perfectly, while a large swimming pool, atrium with a fireplace and lush gardens complete the great outdoors.
Successful fusion of sustainability and luxury continues on when it comes to house’s spacious interiors. Carefully selected materials such as bees-waxed laminated wood and concrete bricks create an inviting atmosphere and a modern look, proving once more that environmentalism and design go hand-in-hand admirably!
Since their founding days, Snøhetta arkitektur-landskap has remained true to its trans-disciplinary thinking. Today, the name Snøhetta stands for a worldwide-recognized practice of architecture, interior design, landscape architecture as well as brand design.
The practice operates in two main studios, one in Oslo, Norway and another one in New York, USA. Snøhetta counts over a hundred of employers of different professional descent, ranging from architects and visual artists to sociologists and philosophers all in pursuance of a mutual goal: achieving innovative design concepts with a strong sense of environmental and social sustainability.
