New Palolo home showcases energy efficiency

Photo courtesy Phil Spalding III

A new custom home, designed and built by Homeworks Construction, is nearing completion on a 3,800-square-foot lot in Palolo Valley, site of the owner’s 70-year-old family home, which was demolished in February.

This is part three of a three-part series. Part one and part two of this renovation series covered the early phases in the evolution of the rebuild from clearing the site and pouring the foundation to framing.

Homeworks sales coordinator Kim Green, who worked closely with the clients from obtaining permits to finalizing final details and finishes, said, “This new multi-generational home really demonstrates how effectively the design/ build process works, both for the contractor and the client.

Homeworks president Jim Byxbee actually pioneered ‘design/build’ in residential construction in Hawaii when he founded Homeworks more than 20 years ago. Teamwork is the essential factor in the success of the process. Homeworks partners Marshall Hickox and Sylvio Boucher also bring their areas of expertise and broad experience to every project … in this case the challenge being the small lot and maximizing living space as well as parking and storage. They work in tandem with our architects, kitchen and bath designer, and selections specialist.”

Interior space of the new home totals 2,941 square feet, including 1,223 square feet on the ground floor with a master bedroom suite, half bath, main living area and kitchen.

The second floor, with 1,718 square feet, includes two bedrooms, one bath and a large family room. Above the 456-square-foot garage and laundry area is the family room, two bedrooms and one bath. The new custom home provides approximately 200 percent more living space than the home it replaces.

Green, a certified aging-in-place specialist and certified green building professional, noted that the home is energy efficient and includes numerous age-friendly features.

“This home is designed to take maximum advantage of solar and light opportunities,” Green said. “The window configuration and location, as well as the stairway design, will assist with natural convection and enhance air flow in the home. Insulation of the exterior walls and ceiling creates an envelope of cool air and further contributes to air flow. The roof and attic are constructed to allow for natural convection release of heat through the ridge and gable venting. In addition, the home is equipped with a photovoltaic system that includes battery backup. These energy-efficient installations will generate substantial savings for the owners.”

Incorporating energy-saving and aging-in-place features in new and remodeled homes will be discussed by Green and other speakers, as well as the latest guidelines for design, construction, and financing of ADUs (Accessory Dwelling Units), at the next Homeworks free Build New Or ReDo Seminar on Tuesday, Oct. 2, 6-8 p.m. at the Homeworks Showroom, 2111 S. Beretania St. Free parking and refreshments will be provided. Please call 955-2777 for reservations and directions.

HOMEWORKS CONSTRUCTION
CONTACT 955-2777
ADDRESS 2111 S. Beretania St.
WEB homeworkshawaii.com