Wood: A Marvel of Sustainable Architecture

Architects: OPAL Architecture
Area: 1,300 ft²
Year: 2021
Photography: Trent Bell Photography
Design Team: Matthew O’Malia, Gunther Kragler, Michelle Bezik, George Switzer
Interior Design: Stedila Design
Construction: Country Homes Construction
Structural Engineer: Thornton Tomasetti
Mechanical Engineer: Andrew McPartland
Lighting: Viabizzuno
Location: Connecticut, USA

A Timber Revolution in Residential Design

The All-Wood, All the Time residence, designed by OPAL Architecture, stands as a testament to sustainable innovation in modern construction. Completed in 2021, this 1,300 ft² home in rural Connecticut redefines eco-conscious living through its full use of cross-laminated timber (CLT) and wood fiber insulation. Replacing a seasonal cottage, the project navigates strict site constraints with a single-level, energy-efficient layout, proving that high-performance architecture can harmonize with nature.

All-wood, all the time / opal architecture

Why Wood? The Sustainable Choice

Wood is among the most sustainable building materials, capable of regenerating itself through solar energy while sequestering carbon over its lifespan. These qualities make it a key player in reducing construction’s carbon footprint, a principle central to OPAL Architecture’s philosophy. In this project, the firm pushes boundaries with an almost entirely wood-based structure CLT walls, ceilings, and roof panels remain exposed, eliminating the need for additional finishes while showcasing material honesty.

Smart Design for a Constrained Site

Perched on a narrow south-facing lot between a road and a lakeshore, the home had to comply with strict zoning regulations limiting height and footprint. The solution? A compact, single-story layout anchored by a central living space, flanked by two private wings a primary bedroom suite on one end and a flexible study/guest room on the other. A stepped facade follows the land’s slope, ensuring uninterrupted lake views from every main living area.

Precision Engineering & Passive House Performance

The home’s structural precision is remarkable—prefabricated CLT panels form the entire shell, while rigid wood fiber insulation wraps the exterior, achieving Passive House-level thermal efficiency. Unlike conventional builds, there are no cavity walls or standard framing; instead, mechanical and electrical systems are surface-mounted onto CLT, with insulation custom-cut to maintain envelope integrity.

Renewable Energy Integration

To minimize reliance on the grid, the home features a Tesla Solar Roof and Powerwall system, enabling on-site energy generation and storage. This integration ensures year-round energy resilience, aligning with the project’s low-carbon mission.

Collaborative Excellence

Led by Matthew O’Malia, Gunther Kragler, Michelle Bezik, and George Switzer, the project brought together top-tier collaborators, including:

Thornton Tomasetti (structural engineering)
Andrew McPartland (mechanical systems)
Stedila Design (interiors)
Viabizzuno (lighting)
Ground (landscape design)

The result is a seamless fusion of sustainability, craftsmanship, and modern living—a blueprint for future-forward, eco-friendly homes.

✦ ArchUp Editorial Insight

OPAL Architecture’s All-Wood, All the Time exemplifies how biophilic design and high-performance engineering can coexist. The project’s rigorous use of cross-laminated timber and wood fiber insulation sets a benchmark for sustainable residential architecture, proving that carbon-conscious building doesn’t require aesthetic compromise. However, while the home excels in material innovation, its compact, single-story layout may limit adaptability for larger families or dynamic living needs. Still, the integration of Tesla’s solar technology ensures long-term energy independence, reinforcing that thoughtful design can marry sustainability with modern comfort. A compelling case for timber’s future in green construction.