Moothart Residence

This low-carbon deep energy retrofit brings a contemporary aesthetic—and state-of-the-art performance—to an 1895 home in Cincinnati, Ohio. 

In addition to the energy efficiency measures, the renovation also included a new kitchen, powder room, and laundry on the first floor; a new bathroom on the second floor; and finishing an unfinished attic.

A low-carbon blanket: The design team wrapped the home’s exterior with an air barrier, continuous insulation, new high-performance windows, and new cladding. Sun shading was added to east and west façades. Materials choices were optimized to minimize the embodied carbon impact of materials while also providing a durable, low-maintenance exterior. The exterior wrap minimized interior work while also keeping the thermal mass of the brick walls on the inside.

Contemporary detailing: The design’s details celebrate contemporary interventions in a historic building. The exterior cladding is held away from the corners, expressing the applied, skin-like nature of the new material. Existing brick walls were exposed in several locations on the interior, its rough texture juxtaposed with clean lines and smooth finishes in the kitchen and bathrooms.

A healthy, all-electric home: Building mechanical systems were electrified; an induction stovetop provides efficient electric cooking; and an EV charger electrifies transportation. An energy recovery ventilator provides filtered fresh air. These strategies not only reduce the home’s carbon emissions—they also create a healthier home free of combustion-related pollutants. A 7.6kW rooftop solar array supplies 100% of the home’s energy needs—including EV charging.

The first year of monitored data shows the home performing better than expected, with a 91% reduction in energy use from the pre-retrofit baseline. As a result, the home is a net energy producer.