Presenting the Extraordinary MARS: Memory Assessment Research Services Project!

Prepare to be amazed by this cutting-edge medical building, meticulously constructed to meet the stringent criteria of a “Passivhaus.” Unleashing the power of innovation, this architectural marvel is an ultra-low energy structure that demands minimal heating and cooling. With a passive solar design, the implementation of the Build SMART E-Wall super insulation, advanced window technology, and an envelope boasting extreme air tightness, this remarkable edifice operates with unparalleled efficiency.

But there’s more! In its quest for a low ecological footprint, this exceptional facility ingeniously repurposes trees from the building site as both structural and decorative elements, effectively minimizing waste. Moreover, the interior exudes a harmonious blend of sustainability and aesthetics, with natural materials adorning the countertops and tile floors. As a testament to its commitment to excellence, sound attenuating insulation has been seamlessly incorporated, ensuring the quietest possible rooms for diagnostic purposes.

Located in Wilmington, NC, this medical facility is proudly owned by the esteemed MARS Memory-Health Network. The visionary architect behind this project is none other than Adam Cohen High Performance Design, while the skilled craftsmanship is attributed to the renowned McKineley Building Corp. Ensuring adherence to the highest standards, Adam Cohen serves as the PHIUS+ RATER, overseeing the project’s performance.

The exterior walls boast the remarkable E-Wall system, featuring 2×4 @ 24″ O.C. and 2×6 @ 16″ O.C. with 3.5″ EPS insulation. The windows, a testament to future-forward design, are none other than PassiV FutureProof windows. Taking care of the MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing) aspects, Staengl Engineering ensures optimal system performance.

To learn more about this groundbreaking endeavor, explore below.

The cost to build vs. the cost to live

On the surface it seems reasonable for people designing and building a new home to strive for the largest home their building site and budget can accommodate. Or is it?

It depends on whether your focus is on the cost to build OR the cost to live.

Homes that feature more square feet of conditioned space are subject to higher property taxes, and higher utility bills. Then there’s the cost of furnishing and maintaining square footage that may only get occasional use.

In the custom housing market today the trend is moving away from building bigger to building better. And as you build better houses -flexible living spaces that provide more comfortable, more energy efficient living conditions – the foot print of a new home tends to shrink.

So while your initial cost to build a 3000+ square foot house to code, vs. a higher performing 2500 square foot house may not decrease, your ongoing cost to live does.

Better built homes reward you with better health, lower taxes, reduced heating and cooling bills and reduced ongoing maintenance for the life of the home. These contribute to a higher quality of life.

So as you struggle to fit you dream home into a budget you can afford, remember that the challenge of funding the cost to build should be short lived. But the rewards of building better can last a lifetime.