FIRE SURVIVORS’ REBUILT HOME IS ENERGY SELF-SUFFICIENT-- AND BEAUTIFUL

 
By Miriam Raftery
 
November 15, 2011 (Lakeside) – After Scott and Abby Anders lost their home during the 2003 Cedar Fire, they resolved to rebuild. From the ashes, they have created a home that takes maximum advantage of the terrain and climate. In addition, solar photovoltaic and solar water heating systems have made the house a net-zero electricity home—producing more power than it consumes.
 
The fruits of their labors were on display November 5 during the Lakeside River Park Foundation's Sustainable Homes Tour.

The couple hired Hubbell and Hubbell Architects and Gaitaud Construction to design and construct their dream home. A fire survivor himself, James Hubbell added artistic elements to make the home both beautiful and energy self-sustaining.
 
Here, the electric meter actually runs backwards. Solar photovoltaic panels produce more energy each year than the home uses, while a solar water system with storage tanks and energy-star appliances further enhance the home’s energy efficiency.
 
“I said it would be really nice to have a fire element,” Scott Anders said, opening a broad wooden door with a dramatic free-form fire mosaic element. “The flames yield to a brighter pastel flower rising out of the ashes.” On the interior side, the door includes additional gemstone detailing.
 
Hubbell also created wave-like mosaic in a stone-lined shower.
 
In the living room, clerestory windows open to admit cross breezes, while an earthen fireplace adds a rustic yet cozy touch. 
 
Double-pane sliding doors and casement windows throughout the home provide an abundance of light and fresh air. Solatubes admit natural light, minimizing the need for artificial lighting. 
 
Rich woods and other natural materials infuse the home with warmth, as in the sunny home office at the front of the residence.
 
The home itself is built among natural towering boulders. 
 
Fire-resistant succulents and native plants as landscape need only rain water to thrive, though drip irrigation has been used to establish young plants.
 

The house wraps around a central courtyard. A rooftop deck crowning the completed home is ideal for stargazing--or simply saving spectacular views in Lakeside’s Muth Valley.