I used to have a real estate dream that went something like this:
Energy efficiency
Los Angeles-based Landry Design Group collaborates with structural and civil engineers on hillside homes to determine if the best seismic reinforcement is concrete caissons sunk into the ground, or a mat-slab foundation in which the home’s weight is evenly distributed across the foundation. Photo: Erhard Pfeiffer
Features
Resilient design creates homes that can survive natural disasters and stay functional in the aftermath
Nordeast Nest in Minneapolis has a south-facing roof that is sloped to accommodate a future solar array. The porch roof is also sloped. These elements bring a contemporary flair to the mix, says architect Tim Eian of TE Studio. RJ Stegora was the builder. Photo: Corey Gaffer Photography
Features
Custom infill projects require architects and builders to play nice with neighbors and planning officials
Located along California’s Central Coast, this modern farmhouse has views over the hills toward the ocean 8 miles away, and patios on both sides to capture cross breezes. Semmes & Co. Builders built the home, which was designed by Gast Architects. Photo: Elliott Johnson
Features
A range of smart building practices ensure long-term livability and good business sense
Features
These custom-built homes make a strong design statement while delivering a high level of energy and resource efficiency.
News
The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) announced that more than 20,000 homes across the United States have earned certification through the LEED for Homes program.
Canadian study says wood could be good building material for tall structures
News
A new study examines the potential of wood — typically used only in low-rise building — as an option in taller structures.
News
Toll Brothers and EchoFirst announced that Echo solar systems will be deployed as the state-of-the-art energy management system within new Toll Brothers communities in Arizona.
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KB Home announced a planned nationwide rollout of its next-generation of energy-efficient home designs, a net-zero-energy home dubbed ZeroHouse 2.0.
Dow and Greater Houston Builders’ Association host Houston Building Science and Energy Forum
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Last Wednesday, Dow Building Solutions and the Great Houston Builder’s Association(GHBA) hosted an all-day Houston Building Science and Energy Forum for local residential builders and remodelers.
Ceiling beams made of reclaimed pine and kitchen countertops with recycled material are among the green features in this LEED Go
Features
Big, expensive custom homes don’t have to be wasteful of energy and other resources, as long as builders educate themselves and their clients about green features and technologies.
Energy-efficient homes may be more market-friendly
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Some studies indicate that newly constructed homes with third-party certifications for sustainability and energy efficiency sold for more on average than noncertified home, and linger on the market for fewer days.
San Francisco homes may soon get “green grades”
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Energy-efficient homes in San Francisco may soon receive an official certification from the city, potentially boosting their resale value.
Georgia builder sees advantages in energy-efficient flooring and wall sheathing
News
Al Durden, construction supervisor for SF Communities in Macon, Ga., builds quality residential homes in Macon and surrounding communities throughout Middle Georgia. Recent alterations in SF Communities’ standard construction practices require Durden to build quieter, more energy-efficient homes.
