Chateau Pensmore to dramatically cut energy costs without sacrificing practicality

Sustainability

A variety of exciting new technologies allow Pensmore to dramatically cut energy costs without sacrificing practicality.

Pensmore’s heating system utilizes a cutting-edge technique for harvesting solar heat energy that exploits the vast energy storage potential of its steel reinforced TransForm concrete shell. Many builders already make use of traditional solar heat collectors, which are highly efficient at moderate temperatures. But until now, it has been expensive and impractical to "bank" the excess solar heat generated on sunnier days. Pensmore's newly-developed technologies enable it to store millions of BTUs of thermal energy while the sun shines, slowly releasing this "green" heat back into the interior at night and during cloudy days.

Secondary sources of heat include combustion of wood products grown on the estate (net carbon neutral) and "conventional" geothermal systems.

Similarly, Pensmore’s cooling system will make use of a unique technology that is both innovative and practical. We will be releasing more detailed information on the heating, cooling, and air conditioning systems in the future, so check back for updates as the chateau approaches completion.

Sustainability means more than just energy efficiency. It also means minimizing total life-cycle costs through low and zero-maintenance materials, and reduced use of non-renewable products during construction. Perhaps one of the biggest environmental advantages of Pensmore is its inherent durability. Designed to endure for centuries, the chateau will leave a minimum impact on the environment while other structures are built, demolished and built again and again.

Pensmore relies on the following systems and technologies:

    •TransForm: super-insulated energy-storing concrete forming system
    •Solar thermal heat collectors
    •Geo-thermal
    •Radiant heating and cooling
    •Advanced climate control software
    •Rainwater collection
    •Helix steel fibers

Are you looking for Design & Building Flexibility?  

Reduced energy consumption? Greater safety? 

Building Pensmore: Select individuals and companies have come together in collaboration to bring this living laboratory to life. On this page you will find information about these individuals and companies, and the roles they play in building Pensmore.

CORE TECHNOLOGIES

TF Forming Systemsdeveloped and manufactures the TransForm super-insulating energy storing concrete forming system that is used to form the structural components of Pensmore. TransForm results in very straight and true walls of incredible strength.	Helix: The TF forming system can utilize any type of concrete and reinforcement. For Pensmore we use a combination of conventional steel rebar and Helix, a unique ultra-high performance steel fiber from Polytorx. Helix reinforces in all directions and makes the concrete much stronger and more elastic.
Country Home Elevator and Stair Lift is the provider and installer of the Symmetry Elevating System elevators located throughout Pensmore. We have Selected the In-Line Gear Drive for the Energy Efficient counter Weight VVVF drive. The Symmetry System is low maintenance and easy to service. The reduced foot print allows for a small machine space for the Controller. Country Home Elevator & Stair Lift Associates are excited to begin this leading edge project. 1549 E. 559th Road Brighton, Mo. 65617 866-638-5438	Meek's The Builder's Choice is Pensmore's preferred source for building materials. We turn to Meek's to supply Andersen windows, roof LVLs, shingles, and more because of the personal attention they provide. We also utilize the unique tools at their one-of-a-kind design center.   Meek's has many locations in the Midwest. You can find your nearest Meek's online here.
Andersen Corporation is the selected manufacturer of windows and doors for Pensmore. The developers chose products with Stormwatch® protectionand SmartSun™. Specifically designed for coastal applications, windows with Stormwatch® provide added weather and security protection24/7. SmartSun™ blocks 95 percent of UV light, which can be instrumental in reducing energy consumption and reduce fading of interiors. This combination provides a window and door solution that is both disaster resistant and energy efficient.	Comfort Design Inc.collaborates with Pensmore™ on its unique HVAC system. CDi is located in Winchester, Virginia. They can be reached at their office line in Winchester at:  (540) 665-2846.
City Wide Concrete is the Ready Mix plant that supplied the concrete for our TransForm walls. City Wide adds Helix steel fibers at the plant. Superplasticizers allow a very strong but highly pumpable mix.	Vulcraft supplied the steel joists and pan used to support the concrete deck floors of Pensmore.Deville Steel supplied rebar and various steel components including beams and bearing plates.

TF Forming Systems Insulated Concrete Form (ICF) company. Call Paul Lais ; 920-309-0327

Michael J. Schlueter, Guardian Building Systems LLC 


All photos and videos © 2014 by Buddy Huggins and  TF Forming Systems and  Pensmore.com their respective copyright owners. No photograph may be used without permission.

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