Sustainable Housing: What Homeowners Need to Know

Sustainable housing design and construction practices can be incorporated into residential homes to make them more energy-efficient and eco-friendly.

Did you know that buildings are responsible for nearly 40 percent of all U.S. carbon dioxide emissions? You heard that right. According to the Environmental and Energy Study Institute, commercial buildings AND residential homes are responsible for a significant amount of energy consumption. While that number sounds daunting, the good news is homeowners can reduce their homes’ emissions and improve energy efficiency through sustainable housing.   

What is sustainable housing?

Sustainable homes have the least possible impact on the environment. From the materials used to create them to the systems used to run them, these homes are designed and built to be as energy-efficient as possible.

Sustainable housing has come a long way over the last several decades, and today there are several different types. Some of the most popular sustainable home types include passive homes, tiny homes, prefabricated homes, and shipping container homes. While sustainable homes can be custom designed and built, they can also be created through remodeling an existing home.

What are the features of sustainable housing?

Sustainable homes can incorporate a variety of eco-friendly features. Some of the most common sustainable home characteristics include:  

·   careful consideration of the home’s size, orientation, and layout;

·   locally sourced, recycled, and/or environmentally friendly building materials;

·   renewable energy sources;

·   rainwater collection and utilization;

·   improved insulation;

·   eco-paints and decor;

·   smart lighting;

·   energy-efficient appliances and systems (such as HVAC and plumbing);

·   high-performance windows and doors; and

·   green roofs.

Are you considering sustainable housing?

If you’d like to improve the sustainability of your home through remodeling or create a sustainable home through new construction, we can help. At Design Build Architects, sustainable housing is our passion. We strive to incorporate sustainable design and construction into all of our projects. Contact our team today to see how our team of design and construction professionals can help you create the eco-friendly home of your dreams.