The 2002 Virginia Tech solar house initiated a line of research spanning net-zero energy use in buildings, sustainable living, digital fabrication and industrialized processes. This was the first of three dwellings designed and constructed by students and faculty for the Solar Decathlon Competition sponsored by the Department of Energy. Innovative features include one of the first applications of aerogel insulation panels in a residential dwelling, fiberglass reinforced structural sections, radiant floor heating supported by solar thermal panels, and a flexible spatial layout optimizing a small plan and section. The project was awarded the NCARB Prize, the BP Award for Most Innovative House on the Mall, and an ID Magazine Award for Best Concept of 2003.

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The 2002 Solar Decathlon project was made possible through collaboration of the following:

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