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California 2018

The 2018 FHB House is a net-zero energy, high-performance home in California’s Sierra Nevada foothills designed to meet the goals of the California 2020 initiative and comply with the most progressive energy code in the country. The project combines a very tight, well-insulated envelope, cutting-edge mechanical systems, and unique material choices, all wrapped up in a one-of-a-kind modern design.

  • A Modern California Home Wrapped in Rockwool Insulation for Energy Efficiency and Fire Resistance

    The designer and builder of the 2018 Fine Homebuilding House detail why they chose mineral-wool batts and high-density boards for all of their insulation needs.

  • Tour the California FHB House in Person

    Join us in Nevada City, CA, on March 21 for a presentation about and a guided tour of this modern energy-efficient home.

  • A Houseful of Cabinets and Built-ins

    Flat-pack cabinets and parts provide a lot of style options.

  • Preparing for Tile

    Schluter membranes work for waterproofing and uncoupling.

  • FHB House Video: Finding High Performance in Good Design

    This hand-crafted, modern house balances a contemporary design connected to the land with enviable energy efficiency.

  • Wide-Plank Flooring

    Floors that will record the story of our house.

  • FHB House Video: Insulation, Air-sealing, and Mechanical Details

    An overview of the materials and systems that will lead to big energy savings and comfort.

  • Minisplit Heat Pumps Efficiently Heat and Cool this House

    Three indoor units provide the right mix of comfort and efficiency for this well-insulated but complex floor plan.

  • Reducing A New Home’s Resource Footprint

    An organized waste stream and the use of recycled building materials were key to keeping the trash-to-materials ratio low.

  • Sponsored Content
    A Home Completely Wrapped in Metal Roofing and Siding

    Bridger Steel’s standing seam metal roofing and siding creates clean lines for a modern exterior

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Fine Homebuilding Magazine

  • Issue 330 - April/May
    • Deck Details for Durability
    • FAQs on HPWHs
    • 10 Tips for a Long-Lasting Paint Job
  • Issue 329 - Feb/Mar 2025
    • Smart Foundation for a Small Addition
    • A Kominka Comes West
    • Making Small Kitchens Work
  • Issue 328 - Dec/Jan 2024
    • How a Pro Replaces Columns
    • Passive House 3.0
    • Tool Test: Compact Line Lasers
  • Issue 327 - November 2024
    • Repairing Damaged Walls and Ceilings
    • Plumbing Protection
    • Talking Shop
  • Issue 326 - October 2024
    • Paint Behind Strike Plates
    • Conceal Cut Ends
    • Ladder Slip Solution

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