University of Maryland
WaterShed
Inspired by the Chesapeake Bay ecosystem, WaterShed proposes solutions to water and energy shortages. The house is a model of how the built environment can help preserve watersheds everywhere by managing storm water onsite, filtering pollutants from greywater, and minimizing water use.
Design Philosophy
The forms of the house highlight the path of a water drop. WaterShed's split butterfly roofline highlights storm water runoff from each module, directing and collecting it into the water axis at the core. Water used within the house intersects this axis through a consolidated mechanical core.
Features
- A modular constructed wetland filters and recycles greywater from the shower, clothes washer, and dishwasher.
- A green roof slows rainwater runoff to the landscape while improving energy efficiency.
- A garden, an edible wall system, and a composting station illustrate the potential for improved health, energy, and cost savings with a complete carbon cycle program.
Technologies
- A liquid desiccant waterfall serves as a design feature and provides humidity control.
- The engineering system harnesses excess energy generated by the solar thermal array.
- A home automation system monitors and adjusts temperature, humidity, lighting, and other parameters to provide maximum function with minimal impact on the environment.
Market Strategy
WaterShed is intended for a working couple that can use the house as home and office. This demographic is prevalent within the Baltimore, Maryland, and Washington, D.C ., markets, where there are many individual firms in the fields of consulting, law, and architecture.
What's Next
At this time, the University of Maryland is seeking a buyer for WaterShed. Plans for the house after the Solar Decathlon are uncertain.
