View of the Kennels' home in Harrisonburg.

When the Kennels decided to build a home, they wanted an energy efficient home built to last.

They chose to build a round house for the inherent energy efficiency and strength of the circular shape. They also wanted open spaces and the secure feeling offered by a home built to last. Deltec Homes provided an architectural solution for all their needs.

The circular shape allows for less surface area per square foot than a standard home so there is less to heat/cool. In addition, with outstanding aerodynamics, wind literally flows around the home consequently cutting air leakage and further lowering energy costs.

“A Deltec provided us with the design to take advantage of the 360 degree view on our building site in the Shenandoah Valley. We chose the Windsor with its 20 panels and liked the ‘round style’ with less wall area for the same inside square footage,” says homeowner Marianne Kennel.

The Kennels also did multiple things to make the house more energy efficient.

“On the roof of the connector we placed six solar collectors. These drain down into a 500 gallon water storage tank which is connected to the radiant floor heating system and is also used to pre-heat water to the hot water heater. Photovoltaic panels on the south roof have a capacity to generate 4.8 KWH of electricity. Since we rarely lose electricity, we use a grid-tied inverter and don’t have battery storage. We have lived in this house for three years and are very happy with the energy efficiency and comfort of this design,” says Marianne.

People may find a round home is earth friendly, durable and healthier to live in. A circular home offers panoramic views, withstands hurricane force winds, and is symbolic of wholeness and completion.

Deltec Homes, an Asheville, North Carolina-based company, is a leader in round home construction worldwide.

“We don’t just build green homes: we build homes in a green way,” says Steve Linton, Director of Sustainable Technologies, Deltec Homes. “From zero waste and 100-percent renewable energy initiatives to our internal sustainability task force, sustainability is an integral part of our business.”