Seattle | Madison Park Passive House Exterior Envelope
Project Overview
Located in Seattle’s Madison Park neighborhood, this project involved the exterior envelope construction of a Passive House–certified, zero-energy home. Synapse Construction was engaged to execute a highly controlled, performance-driven exterior system designed to meet stringent energy and durability standards while supporting a modern architectural design.
This home was built to prioritize airtightness, thermal performance, and long-term durability, requiring exceptional attention to detailing across all exterior assemblies.
Scope of Work
Passive House Exterior Envelope
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Construction of a high-performance exterior envelope designed to meet Passive House standards
Alternate exterior view highlighting the clean lines and high-performance envelope construction of this Madison Park Passive House. -
Careful coordination of continuous air, water, and thermal control layers
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Precision detailing at all panel joints, corners, and transitions
Siding & Cladding Installation
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Installation of modern panel-based cladding systems
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Integration of contrasting exterior materials to emphasize clean lines and massing
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Execution of envelope details without traditional punched window openings
Materials & Systems
James Hardie® Panel Siding
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Fiber cement panel system selected for durability and stability
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Clean, modern appearance suited to contemporary architecture
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Installed as part of a tightly controlled envelope assembly
Shou Sugi Ban Cladding
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Charred wood siding used as an architectural accent material
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Provides visual contrast and natural texture
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Selected for its durability and resistance to weathering
High-Performance Envelope Assembly
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Continuous air and weather-resistive barrier systems
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Detailed transitions to maintain airtightness throughout the exterior
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Built to support zero-energy performance goals
Design & Construction Considerations
Unlike conventional residential projects, this Passive House exterior required exacting tolerances and coordination to ensure continuity of the envelope. The absence of standard window penetrations simplified some transitions while increasing the importance of precise panel alignment and joint detailing.
Every aspect of the exterior was constructed with long-term energy performance and durability in mind.
Final Outcome
The completed Madison Park Passive House demonstrates how advanced envelope construction and modern materials can work together to achieve both exceptional energy performance and refined architectural expression. The result is a zero-energy home with a durable, low-maintenance exterior built to meet the highest performance standards.
This project reflects Synapse Construction’s experience delivering high-performance residential envelope systems, from contemporary design to Passive House-level execution. Contact Synapse Construction today!
— Synapse Construction | Building Envelope Specialists
