101 Series: Continuous Insulation (10/4, 12pm ET / 9am PT)

Manitoba Passive Solar

The site for the Manitoba Haus is located between two very different landscapes: the endless skies of the Prairie—a horizontal landscape, and the density and verticality of adjacent woods.

The landscape itself becomes the concept for the design: Horizontal on one side, and vertical on the other. All windows in the home and garage follow this paradigm.

The floorpan is split into and east and west wing—one being the home, the other the garage. In the middle, they connect via a sunroom, which doubles as entry. The short summer season in this part of the world means taking advantage of sunlight and views when available. The sunroom at the center of the plan makes this a daily experience. A cozy wood stove can be used to condition the space year-round. The kitchen is right next door.

From the main entrance, one is immediately pulled into the open space at the heart of the home. This great room truly lives up to its name—exposing the full height of the vaulted roof above. A second floor balcony hovers above the living area and shelters an eating nook for two below. The tall south-facing windows correspond with the scenery beyond.

Located on the second floor are guest and sitting spaces. The far side of the first floor is dedicated to the Master suite.

Our Clients favored a simple aesthetic and honesty in materials. At the same time, the home offers many custom touches but manages to deliver them in a very economical, yet beautiful fashion.

This 3 bedroom, 2-1/2 bath home was designed using the basic Passive House principles: Passive solar heat gains, super-insulation, airtightness and heat recovery ventilation.

Key Features

  • 2-stories above grade

  • Exposed vaulted ceilings throughout

  • 3 Bedroom, 2-1/2 Bath

  • Approx. 1,500 net sf

  • Attached 380 sf entry vestibule and sunroom with wood-burning stove

  • Attached 780 sf garage with 165 sf oenology space

  • Passive solar design

  • Super-insulated and airtight building envelope

  • Canadian-made, triple-pane high-performance windows

Project Details

  • Design: Tim Delhey Eian, CPHD & Stephan Tanner

  • Construction: Glenberg Homes

  • Project: 2014 – 2015

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