Green building is currently the hottest trend in the building industry, and it is sure to stick around as non-renewable energy resources are depleted and we become more aware of our environment. Choose a house plan that will be efficient. All house plans can be constructed using energy efficient techniques such as extra insulation and, where appropriate, solar panels. Many of the homes in this collection feature smaller square footage and simple footprints, the better to save materials and energy for heating and cooling. Window walls can allow for passive solar heating if the home is oriented correctly. Choose 2 x 6 framing or Insulated Concrete Forms for greater insulation, especially in a cold climate. Want to make tweaks like these to your plan for greater efficiency? Our modification service can help. Some of the home plans in this category have been specifically designed to earn certification such as LEED for Homes, a robust program addressing every aspect of a building's envelope, systems and finishes. Whether or not you choose to seek certification, programs such as LEED provide excellent guidelines for building a sustainable home. Requirements vary according to climate zone and even your home's orientation on the lot, so if you are serious about building a green home, consult a building science engineer or green professional for advice on how to build the most eco-friendly home on your lot.
