WaterShed at the University of Maryland | U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011

WaterShed construction activities and transport are made possible with the continued mentorship and support of Maryland Custom Builders, Inc.

Thanks to our generous sponsor and mentors from American Power & Light, students learned to wire the house, providing electricity for items such as energy efficient LED lighting that offer ambient space illumination.

Translucent clerestory windows paired with high ceilings that create WaterShed's light and lofty interior is made possible with the support of Ayers Saint Gross.

Thanks to Design Within Reach for furnishing WaterShed with simple & elegant furniture that creates an inviting living space.

With contributions from the Kibel Foundation, WaterShed was able to install elements such as wall shelves that use vertical space to offer compact storage for media or other accessories.

Thanks to Shapiro & Duncan, a ductless mini split system effectively and efficiently conditions spaces for thermal comfort.

Thanks to Absolute Fire Protection for keeping WaterShed prepared with automatic, heat-responsive sprinklers.

The microline white ash fumed floors constructed of rapidly renewable wood is made possible by Oregon Lumber and Baxter Floors.

With the craftsmanship of HermanMiller and support of Mr. Albert Rubeling, FAIA, the kitchen and living room furniture pull out for additional table surfaces and seating or easily store away when not in use.

Thanks to Interface Multimedia for their computer animation assistance and to Carlon for providing conduits for wiring throughout the house.

With the support of Loewen and RENU, WaterShed balances efficiency of an airtight home while allowing natural ventilation and interaction with the outdoors.

Thanks to Precision Wall Tech for their assistance with wall finishing.