Urban Green Design

The design concept was created with the Shotgun residential archetype in mind due to the archetype being so prevalent in New Orleans neighborhoods. Beginning with shipping containers and a prefabricated steel structure, the traditional form and layout of a Shotgun home was developed while simultaneously creating a home that is exceptionally durable, sustainable, and hurricane resistant. The landscape utilizes native prairie grasses that were nearly wiped out during Hurricane Katrina to help aid in the restoration of the prairie grass population. Native ferns and sedums are also used to promote low water consumption. Fruit trees (pomegranate and orange) and herbs that grow well in shade are used to promote sustainable urban food sources. On the interior, the home uses tall windows as a visual expansion of space, and the floor plan is an open design that allows for free flow between individual rooms. A balance of visually soft but resilient materials with bright visual cues provides a tactile experience throughout. The universal design elements that are employed enhance this spatial environment to its maximum potential. Combined, these interior design qualities provide a comfortable living environment regardless of age or ability. The home follows LEED standards to achieve Platinum certification and Passive-Haus strategies and small amount of renewable energy to reach net-zero energy status.