Basics of a Green Home, and the Integrated Design Approach

This is from the National Association of Home Builder's page. I love this image because it still looks like a typical house. Building green doesn't have to be scary. It doesn't mean tentacle tubes poking from walls or living in darkness to save energy. It simply means building a better building.

There are many ways to build green, and it doesn't necessarily entail a full-blown overhaul of your thinking. Start out small, by choosing a few things you'd like to improve, and add things to your next project. It's better to do something than to do nothing.

Just remember that for maximum benefit, starting in the design stage will save costs in the long run. A fully integrated whole-system design approach leads to an efficient, high-quality product and happier customers. Everyone has a learning curve with green, so don't forget the value of these new experiences. Embrace the opportunity to learn from the subcontractors that you will interact with when using a whole system design approach, and enjoy teaching them new things as well.

For more information on the integrated design approach, consult the Whole Building Design Guide.