Net-Zero SIP House Placitas NM

Location: Placitas, NM

Project Information

Project Type:	Residential, < 3,000 sq. ft.
Manufacturer:	Premier Building Systems
Builder:	Spiegel Kinsley Construction
Design Professional:	Spiegel Kinsley Construction and Adwelling Designs LLC
Year Built:	2025

Performance

High Performance:	Yes
HERS/EUI Index Score:	42
ACH50 - Blower Test Results:	1.84
kBtu/sq.ft./year:	43.2
CO2 lbs./sq.ft./year:

Awards/Certifications: Other Awards

A Net-Zero Oasis in Placitas

Imagine a home where luxury meets sustainability, where every detail is designed for comfort, efficiency, and harmony with nature. Welcome to this stunning 2,720 sq. ft. high-performance residence in Placitas, New Mexico—a project that proves eco-friendly living can be both stylish and indulgent.

The Home at a Glance

Total project size: 4,896 sq. ft. (including garage, porches, and mechanical spaces)
Conditioned living space: 2,720 sq. ft.
Layout: 3 spacious bedrooms, 2.5 baths, and a dedicated office
Wellness features: Custom Plungie plunge pool, private sauna, and integrated wellness space
Outdoor living: Native landscaping, covered porches, and a high-desert oasis vibe

This isn’t just a house—it’s a personal retreat designed to restore balance and elevate everyday living.

Built for Performance

The home achieves full net-zero energy, meaning it produces as much energy as it consumes. Thanks to premium materials and eco-friendly systems, residents enjoy year-round comfort, ultra-low operating costs, and exceptional efficiency.

SIPs: The Secret Ingredient

Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) are at the heart of this build. With 6.5” EPS wall panels and a high-performance roof system, SIPs deliver airtight insulation, reduce waste, and save time during construction. In fact, all exterior panels were installed in under two days!

The builder notes:

“I love that I don’t need a dumpster until after framing is complete. SIPs save on labor, waste costs, and help me hit my energy efficiency standards every time.”

Certifications & Awards

This project proudly earned Build Green New Mexico – Emerald Certification, the highest level available, comparable to LEED Platinum. Highlights include:

Net-zero energy design
Deep energy savings (40% below 2018 IECC)
Blower door test: 1.84 ACH50
HERS Index: 42 (and 0 when factoring in solar!)
90% construction waste diversion
Use of recycled, low-VOC, and sustainably harvested materials

It’s no surprise this builder was awarded Most Efficient Home of the Year in New Mexico.

Solar Power & Smart Systems

Solar array: 24 Hanwha Q.TRON panels, 10.56 kW system
HVAC: LG Cassette Mini Splits for each room
Hot water: Heat pump system with recirculation buttons
Lighting & appliances: 100% LED and Energy Smart Fisher & Paykel appliances
Windows: Anderson 100 series with U-value of 0.27

Together, these systems offset 120% of annual energy usage, meaning the home produces more energy than it consumes.

Sustainable Touches

No-VOC Sherwin Williams paint
FSC-certified engineered hardwood floors
Solid birch ply cabinets from sustainably managed forests
Native, low-water landscaping with drip irrigation
Eight 50-gallon rainwater barrels supporting fruit trees

A Buyer’s Delight

Perhaps the best testimonial comes from the homeowner:

“After a few months, I thought the builder forgot to transfer the energy bill to me. Turns out, I just don’t have one!”

? This Placitas residence is more than a home—it’s a blueprint for the future of sustainable living. With net-zero energy, spa-like amenities, and eco-conscious design, it shows that performance and pleasure can coexist beautifully.

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