Sustainable home design utilizes the latest technology to develop in such a way that minimizes harmful effects on the environment and indoor air quality while enhancing today’s lifestyle with quality materials. Sustainable building also produces less waste. All of our house plans incorporate some sustainable design features:
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
Our plans include energy efficient features such as thermal air barrier foam insulation, multi-pane low-e windows and doors, tankless water heaters, programmable thermostats, water conserving plumbing fixtures, and energy star appliances. We also include notes to ensure proper sealing around ducts and between walls, floors and roofs. Solar panels can also be added to most of our house plans. These items can reduce your utility costs, help to conserve natural resources, and provide a more comfortable home.
INDOOR AIR QUALITY
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are found in many building materials and can accumulate in the air inside of homes. Our plans include notes for your contractor specifying low-VOC or no-VOC paints, stains, glues and caulks whenever possible.
REDUCING WASTE
Our plans include notes to recycle all recyclable jobsite waste. We recommend choosing recycled or renewable finish materials such as FSC certified lumber and finish woods, bamboo, or recycled glass. Choosing high-quality, timeless materials rather than low-cost trendy options reduces the need for future remodeling or demolition, helping to reduce future waste.
PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE
A well thought-out floorplan with rooms that can be used in flexible ways can also reduce the need for future remodeling or demolition. We are happy to make universal design suggestions for “aging in place” that can be incorporated into your home now, or pre-planned for future upgrades.