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entryway
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libraryfivestarrating
metalcanopy
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solarwaterheater
windows
naturallight
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concretecountertop
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A private residence with a granny flat. The house was designed for ADA access. Passive solar cooling and heating was thoroughly studied during the design process and the roof was designed to receive solar panels. The case study for this Benavides Residence can be seen on Austin Energy Green Building website under single family projects.

This house was on the Austin Cool House Tour in 2007. It earned the 5 Star Rating with the highest point rating ever for a single family residence from the Austin Energy Green Building Program.

The house now has 3 Kw photovoltaic (PV) panels on the roof. The system is designed to take care of all the electrical needs of the house. The house also has a solar water heater. Rainwater is caught and stored for landscape/garden use.

Operable clerestory windows bring cool breezes and light to the living areas and library. All floors are stained concrete as well as the kitchen counter tops. Stained concrete was also used in the shower walls. Translucent material was used in the main entryway to keep rain away, but still let in the light.