Luxury Meets LEED Homes

Project Location: McLean, VA

Certifications: LEED Homes Silver, ENERGY STAR v2,
Indoor airPLUS

Builder: SEED Green Homebuilders

In the midst of McLean’s luxury homes, SEED Green Homebuilders combines high-end with highly-efficient.

Vic and Rachel Puri, owners of SEED Green Homebuilders are striving to provide their clients with the fixtures and finishes they expect from high-end homes, but also a healthier, more comfortable, energy and water efficient home.

Energy Efficiency

Everyday Green used energy model data and projected utility bills to develop an air sealing and insulation strategy with the builder. One inch of continuous rigid insulation on the exterior and six inches of dense pack cellulose on the interior of above grade walls provide a tight envelope. The attic floor was sprayed with 10” of sprayfoam. Other builders considering this strategy should pay careful attention to mechanical equipment placement, attic venting and whether additional storage is desired.

The home also features ENERGY STAR appliances, high efficiency lighting, an ERV and low-flow aerators that save energy and water.

Indoor Air Quality

The home achieved EPA’s Indoor airPLUS standard, showcasing low-VOC materials, enhanced durability, and a focus on indoor moisture management.

In a large home, systems control becomes critical. Through testing during final LEED Homes inspections, it was discovered some exhaust fans and the ERV weren’t functioning properly. While the problems are some of Everyday Green’s most common failures, these issues often go undetected unless testing is performed. If left unfixed, the problems can lead to elevated moisture and poor comfort in the home.

Site Sustainability

The landscaping is thoughtfully designed with 94% drought tolerant plants. A rain garden manages close to 100% of impermeable surface runoff from both the roof and site, providing both beauty and functionality. The driveway is sloped toward underground piping that connects with the rain garden. Downspouts from both the front and rear of the home also channel water underground to the feature.