Photo Credit: Ken Wyner
LEAFHOUSE - US Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2007
(University of Maryland - Amy was the Principal Investigator for the project, and Brittany was a graduate student team leader.)
LEAFHouse was the University of Maryland's entry into the 2007 U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2007. Guided by a multidisciplinary team of faculty and industry mentors, the project fostered unprecedented collaboration across the university's colleges. Exhibited on the National Mall in Washington, DC, the house drew tens of thousands of visitors over a 10-day period.
Inspired by the Chesapeake Bay watershed, LEAFHouse blends biological principles with cutting-edge technology to deliver a smart, adaptable, and resource-efficient home powered entirely by renewable energy. Operating under the ethos “Leading Everyone towards an Abundant Future,” the project demonstrates that sustainability does not require sacrificing quality of life, but rather maximizing efficiency to live well.
Architecturally and experientially, the home fosters a connection to nature. From an innovative knife-plate structural system that mimics the veins of a leaf to a south-facing green wall and a patent-pending liquid desiccant system, LEAFHouse derives inspiration from nature in both form and function.
Ultimately, LEAFHouse placed first in the nation and second in the world overall, while capturing the People’s Choice Award. It also secured first place in the Communications and Energy Balance contests, and second place in Architecture, Market Viability, and Lighting.
Awards + Recognition
2nd Place Overall in the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2007
Honor Award, 2008 AIA DC Washingtonian Design Award
Special Award for the “Advancement of the Art and Science of Architecture”, AIA Potomac Valley 2007 Design Awards
ASHRAE: Integration of Renewable for Sustainable Living Award
National Association of Homebuilders Marketing Curb Appeal Award
Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers 2008 Annual Awards Ceremony
State of Maryland House and Senate Binding Resolution of commendation
