Marin Solar Village

Marin Solar Village proposed to convert the decommissioned Hamilton Air Force Base, in Novato, California into a model new town representing the nation's largest application of advanced practices of solar and ecological design. This practical and innovative plan for a community of 5,000 people received national acclaim and a Progressive Architecture Merit Award for its vision and thorough analysis of technical and economic feasibility.

The plan integrates housing, diverse employment centers, open space, and food production on site. Key features include: 80% passive solar building design; on-site sewage and solid waste treatment, water recycling and energy generation; internal mini-bus network; bicycle and pedestrian paths; restored marshlands; and 40 acres of recreation and park space.

This practical and innovative plan for a community of 5,000 people has received national acclaim for its vision and thorough analysis of technical and economic feasibility. The Solar Village plan integrates housing and employment on-site, and features 80% passive solar building design, on-site energy generation, internal mini-transit, water and waste recycling systems, agriculture, aquaculture, and other amenities. The Marin Solar Village demonstrates how new and existing communities can reduce dependence on expensive imported energy by 50-75% and at the same time improve amenities and the quality of life.

The plan provides for nearly 2,000 dwellings clustered in a variety of row-house, atrium, townhouse and terrace configurations in five distinct neighborhoods. All the housing is sited and designed to assure maximum solar access and opportunities for solar heating, natural light and natural ventilation to all the units. Some of the passive solar features incorporated into the s include: trombe walls, thermal mass and greenhouses. The overall vision was for comfort, accessibility, affordability and community in daily life.