Rountree Architects, based in Westport, CT is an architectural firm founded in 1990 dedicated to creating structures that are beautiful, functional and energy efficient. We specialize in residential design and offer full architectural services for projects from small additions to new homes. Our design approach is to integrate the client's needs and budget with informed decisions about healthy, environmentally sound construction.
We advocate for the use of clean, renewable energy technologies and passive house construction techniques. Whether you are considering building a new house, or doing an addition or renovation, we would be happy to talk to you. We have been serving happy homeowners for nearly 30 years. Designing and building net zero homes is Rountree Architect's passion.
We advocate for the use of clean, renewable energy technologies and passive house construction techniques. Whether you are considering building a new house, or doing an addition or renovation, we would be happy to talk to you. We have been serving happy homeowners for nearly 30 years. Designing and building net zero homes is Rountree Architect's passion.
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John Rountree, Owner and Chief Architect of Rountree Architects, knew from the time he was young that the world in which we live is to be respected and cared for. In college in the early 80's, John developed an interest in solar energy and how it could be used to power buildings from the sun, with no carbon emissions.
This Westport home is in a tidal flood zone and and had to be lifted in order to protect it from frequent flooding and to give the homeowners the space they needed. The client had a small stone cottage and wanted to keep the stone and maintain the cottage feel but expand the space by adding a 2nd floor and a new 2 car garage.
The client, a recently retired businessman, wanted a space of his own, attached to the house but not in the house. He was enamored with barns, their openness and the aesthetics of timber frame construction. He also was determined to create a structure that was energy efficient and used passive and active solar systems.
To be considered a "net zero energy home" the total amount of energy used by the home and its occupants on an annual basis must be roughly equal to the amount of renewable energy created on the site. In 2015, The homeowner approached me with sketches of the house he envisioned.
He wanted to build a near-net-zero residence for him and his family, using "passive house" principles and techniques The almost 7,000sf house delivers on the owners' expectations.With a 10.7-kW PV system, the family's average monthly utility bill is $45, which covers heating, cooling, hot water and all plug loads.
He wanted to build a near-net-zero residence for him and his family, using "passive house" principles and techniques The almost 7,000sf house delivers on the owners' expectations.With a 10.7-kW PV system, the family's average monthly utility bill is $45, which covers heating, cooling, hot water and all plug loads.
We always ensure our client understands the process and likely timing to feel comfortable and reassured from start to finish. Schematic Design: Rountree Architects generates a series of design studies to give form to our ideas and your vision for your home, usually in plans, elevations and sections.
Reviews (3)
Sandhya Dhruvakumar
Aug 08, 2018
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John was my architect for a project in 2015 during which I gutted and rebuilt my 1940’s colonial. We also added a large 2 story addition. I loved the home but it was dated and choppy with an awkward addition from the 60’s. He truly reimagined the space and made it an open concept, family friendly space but retained the charm of the original home.
I selected John because I felt I wanted someone who was sensitive to keeping the project as “green” and environmentally friendly as possible. I also appreciated that he was able to make additions look natural to the house. I was not interested
I selected John because I felt I wanted someone who was sensitive to keeping the project as “green” and environmentally friendly as possible. I also appreciated that he was able to make additions look natural to the house. I was not interested
Gregg S.
Oct 28, 2017
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John Roundtree was referred to me by a colleague at work during a conversation I was having about putting an addition on my home. I had an idea of what I wanted but really needed a professional architect to help flush out the design. During my initial meeting with John I could see he completely understood what I was going after and was on the same page. The drawings he came up with were absolutely perfect! He is so easy to working with, friendly, professional and really knows his craft. I would highly recommend John Roundtree to anyone who is in need of an architect who truly “gets it.”
Jim Brown
Aug 11, 2017
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I am so grateful to have chosen John to be the architect on my home's reconstruction. 5 years ago a fire ripped through my house and destroyed a great deal of the structure. John expertly put together a comprehensive plan to not only rebuild the house, but to find ways to improve it as well. At very little extra expense, I was able to move in to a vastly upgrade design and floor plan. The entire experience was like working with an old friend; a true joy.. Great choice if you are seeking an architect! Reliable, timely, and effective. Thank you John!
