LaHouse is a display of high-performance building practices to create more sustainable, resilient and healthy homes in the gulf region. The research-based facility is located on LSU's Baton Rouge campus and displays home-building techniques and solutions for Louisiana's unique climate. LaHouse is open weekdays from 10 am to 4:30 p.m. for self-guided tours or can be toured completely virtually.
The home office is strategically located near the side door for anyone who works from home and may have clients coming in throughout the day. The side door location allows you to welcome clients inside without having them walk through more of your house.
Structural insulated panels have a foam core between two oriented strand boards. Structures built using SIPS are very energy efficient, and consumers can have their energy costs reduced by 50 to 60 percent by using SIPS when they build their homes.
Additionally, using SIPS can lower construction time on a home as they are quickly installed and can be precut to fit the home's needs.
Wood frame windows are a high-end option and the most expensive framing displayed in LaHouse, but they are not the most energy efficient. Additionally, wooden frames require more maintenance and are more susceptible to water damage. Because of this, it is best to only use wooden window frames in areas where they are shielded from the rain. While wood is not the best option, it is still much more energy efficient than aluminum or metal.
The glass in these windows is low-e glass which means the heat contact on the exterior side of the windows does not radiate inside the home. In addition to keeping temperatures low, the low-e glass protects furniture from fading in the sun and insulates the house from outside noise.
The home office features an interior shutter that can be opened and closed to provide light or privacy.
A baseboard wiring track allows your wiring to hide in plain sight. Clip-on baseboards create a channel for wiring to run through.
Laminate flooring is a durable and affordable flooring choice. Laminate flooring with an aluminum oxide topcoat will not scratch, dent, fade, or stain. Laminate is made from wood, making it recyclable.
The LSU AgCenter and the LSU College of Agriculture