Site Your New Home to Save Energy and Maximize Natural Light

Energy-efficient house plans are designed while considering the impact of the building materials on the environment by using natural resources, recycled materials, and new technologies – including building techniques – all while saving the homeowner money. These home plans are a win-win!

Insulation is a critical aspect of home construction, but traditional materials are far from perfect. If a product could be affordable, environmentally friendly, and convenient to work with – and offer an unprecedented R-value – then it could corner the insulation market.

Energy efficiency in the home is not just about saving resources, making less of an impact on the environment, and “greener” living – though all of those things a great in themselves. It’s also about saving money on heating and cooling your home to make it comfortable to live in.

Now is the time to install solar panels at your home. Why? Prices are down because of government incentives; there are leasing arrangements and power purchase agreements that reduce or eliminate upfront costs; the technology is improving, some home centers have booths/kiosks touting solar electric installations; and more …

Fresh water shortages are becoming a serious global problem, with water restrictions emerging in developed countries. Consumers nationwide in drought affected regions of the Western United States are being asked to cut their water consumption. Therefore, some trends and cultural paradigm shifts are occurring, creating an atmosphere of urgency and driving opportunities to educate more people about the seriousness of the problem. As you build your new house plan, here are some tips to remember.

The floating spaceship-like oblong structure is known as Whitfield Shore, a condominium located in Guilford, Connecticut, built by well-known modernist residential architect Wilfred J. O. Armster.