Energy modeling that protects design intent
Location
Palo Alto, CA
Scope
Remodel + addition
We combine AI modeling with hands-on experience to deliver engineering plans that are accurate, buildable, and easy to inspect.
A residential new build needed energy compliance without forcing aesthetic tradeoffs. We modeled options, tuned assemblies, and delivered a package that met targets while preserving the architect’s vision.
• Bringing an older home into compliance with the latest Title 24 conservation standards during a remodel and addition.
• Preserving design intent for views and light by keeping areas of new glazing without heavy window reductions.
Title 24 is a code and a design partner. For this Palo Alto remodel and addition, the goal was to keep key glazing while meeting the energy budget. We ran a performance model instead of a rigid prescriptive path, testing envelope assemblies, window types, and opening sizes by orientation. That let us quantify tradeoffs and protect views and daylight without shrinking the design.
We closed the gap with targeted upgrades where they mattered most. High-efficiency heat pump HVAC, ducts kept inside conditioned space, and right-sized hot water recirculation lowered modeled loads. Tight air sealing, selective insulation improvements at roof and walls, and high-performance glazing on the most exposed elevations brought the whole building summary under budget. The result kept the architect’s window strategy intact and delivered compliance without a redesign.
Outcomes
Compliance
Performance model approved
Design Integrity
Key glazing preserved within energy budget
Timeline
No redesign cycles required for energy compliance
Permit Speed
Cleared energy review with fewer resubmittals
