Category: Palo Alto

Green energy expert Sean Miskelley from Clarum Homes explains the use of the Structurally Insulated Panel (SIP) Roofing System in the Palo Alto Passive home. These panels are 12″ thick, giving the roof an insulation value of R44. The panels are delivered to the construction site, lifted in to place, and secured. This allows an airtight attic assembly and eliminates the need for hot, unconditioned attic spaces. In addition, it doesn’t require the venting of traditional attic vaults. The science behind energy efficiency in our building walls strips down simply into three areas: 1. Air Transfer/...


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And finally, we just finished transforming a modest 1,185 square foot 1920’s period home into a super energy-efficient passive home inspired contemporary three bedroom home with an open floor plan designed for today’s family. The renovation included adding super insulation, air tight envelope, heat recovery ventilation, solar power, passive solar hot water and a host of crisp and modern but subtle stone and wood finishes and custom built-ins. The home is now one of the nicest homes on the block. Check out the photos on our Renovations page.


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Clarum is currently designing our first passive home in Palo Alto, California. It will be located in the Southgate neighborhood adjacent to Stanford University and Palo Alto High School. We’ll be under construction in the fall. Check back with us for more info. If you are interested in owning this Palo Alto passive home or having a passive home designed or built for you, send us an email. sean@clarum.com


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