Chrysalis Residence: Sustainable Farm House in Avalanche, WI

Chrysalis Residence: A Sustainable Farm House in Avalanche, Wisconsin

Nestled in the picturesque town of Avalanche, Wisconsin, stands a remarkable farm house that showcases the perfect harmony between nature and architecture. Aptly named the Chrysalis Residence, this unique dwelling was meticulously constructed using trees sourced from within 500 yards of the property. Designed by the visionary team at WholeTrees Architecture, this eco-friendly home embraces sustainable practices and offers a glimpse into the future of green living.

The Chrysalis Residence boasts a slab on grade foundation, ingeniously equipped with in-floor heating tubes. This innovative feature harnesses the power of solar gain during the winter months, capitalizing on the home's abundant southern exposure. To build the structural system, WholeTrees Architecture employed WholeTrees round timbers, which not only provide exceptional strength but also exemplify the beauty of nature's organic forms. Branching columns gracefully support and frame the round wood poles that lie beneath the second floor and roof, creating an architectural spectacle that blends seamlessly with the surroundings.

Adding to the home's sustainability, an attached solar greenhouse adorns the south side of the Chrysalis Residence. This clever addition not only provides warmth during the winter but also acts as a greywater recycling system. By treating water from the kitchen and shower, this innovative solution minimizes waste and showcases the integration of sustainable practices into everyday living.

What sets the Chrysalis Residence apart is the remarkable source of its construction materials. Every tree used in the creation of this exceptional home was harvested directly from the farm grounds. To maintain a truly eco-conscious approach, the trees were carefully extracted from the land with the assistance of farm draft horses. This meticulous process ensures that the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape is preserved, while also celebrating the sustainable principles that WholeTrees Architecture holds dear.

The Chrysalis Residence is a testament to the power of sustainable design and the seamless integration of nature and architecture. With its straw bale envelope, WholeTrees round timbers, and ingenious solar greenhouse, this remarkable farm house in Avalanche, Wisconsin stands as a beacon of hope for a greener future. It serves as a reminder that harmonizing with nature not only produces stunning architectural marvels but also showcases our commitment to preserving the planet for future generations.

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