fairfax residence

The Fairfax Residence is the first net-zero home in the city of Fairfax, VA. An unwavering committment to sustainability extends from the house to the garden.

Nearly 40 species of native perennials, shrubs, and trees were planted in the landscape. A mix of butterfly weed, black-eyed susan, giant coneflower, blazing star, purple coneflower, and blue false indigo contribute to a front yard pollinator playground. A carpet of golden goundsel along the entrance walkway is another great nectar source for butterflies. The traditional bluegrass lawn was replaced with a native buffalo grass that requires no mowing. The garden is a vertically layered and ever changing tapestry of color, texture, and movement.  

The project site is located in the Middle Potomac-Anacostia-Occoquan Watershed which flows into the Potomac River and ends in the Chesapeake Bay.  The heavily planted garden, large integrated drywell, and permeable driveway work together to reduce rainwater runoff. The design elements maximize habitat and minimize pollution. This project was a rewarding collaboration with Peabody Architects. To learn more about the Passive House design principles that underpin the architectural design please visit their work.

Photos by Allen Russ

XL bluestone pavers extend the entry volume into the landscape and are framed by a row of hornbeam trees.

The cross axis is defined by a garden path that encircles the home.

Before and After The lawn (dormant in the after photo) is a warm season buffalo grass lawn that requires no mowing. The spots of green are the remnant foliage from spring bulbs. 

Type

Living

Project Architect

Peabody Architects

Landscape Contractors

Oldetowne Historic Landscapes, Inc.

Square Footage

10,268 SF                       

Time Span

2015 - 2018

Location

Fairfax, VA

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