Best Example of Green Building

The first GreenPoint Rated historic home in California showcases how to improve a building's environmental performance while protecting its architectural integrity. HartmanBaldwin followed specific guidelines as set forth by Build It Green, a green point rating system that certifies the level of 'green' measures applied to residential construction.

To protect indoor air quality, low VOC paints were used throughout the home. Proper exhaust system was installed, the HVAC system has a high efficiency filter to reduce indoor air pollution, and carbon monoxide alarms were installed. The project team took strides to reduce waste wherever possible. Some of the original plumbing fixtures, as well as a pedestal sink and kitchen sink that were not original, were removed and reused on another project. Construction waste, including cardboard, plastic and aluminum, were recycled.

All the faucets and showerheads were replaced with low-flow fixtures, and the toilets were replaced with low-flow reproductions of a 1921 toilet with a low wall-hung tank. The project also received GreenPoint Rated points for accessibility, thanks to a ground-floor bathroom that has blocking for grab bars.

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The HGTV Green Home 2012 is one of FrontPorch's best examples of green building to date. The home was designed to resemble an early traditional Georgia farmhouse but boasts modern amenities and eco-friendly features that allow homeowners to "live big" in a compact space.

Advanced green framing techniques, an insulation package including Icynene spray foam and Johns Manville Spider Custom Insulation, energy star rated roof, community blackwater treatment hook up, an energy-efficient window and door package as well as light and plumbing fixtures minimize the impact this house makes on the environment.

The home is designed extremely intelligently and efficiently throughout, ensuring each space is functional for multiple purposes while still being beautiful and providing a strong connection to the outdoors. Locally sourced materials provided attractive and eco-friendly design.

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Home restoration with double challenge - owners wanted LEED Platinum rating while also wanting a historically accurate restoration. During several 20th century renovations, parts of the original home were sloughed off and fashions of the time erected in its place. The owners wanted a very energy-efficient, sustainable house that maintained the architectural integrity and style of the original house. Rigid preservation codes were met with 3 separate preservationist bodies overseeing building facade alterations throughout Washington, DC.

LEED-H Platinum status achieved by:
- Soy-based Foam Insulation
- Insulated Slab
- State of the art solar water heating system
- Installing a high-efficiency HVAC system with an ERV
- LED lighting throughout
- FSC lumber
- Front windows restored with custom tight-fitting storm windows. New windows used on side and rear.
- New high albedo roof
- Fire wall separation at original party wall
- EcoTimber bamboo and Mountain Lumber Antique heart pine wood flooring
- Local & recycled content whenever possible

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Project challenges:
- Remote hilltop site subject to frequent storms and extended power outages.
- Combined control of the heating, cooling, lighting and power systems was highly complex and novel.
- Net zero energy was achieved.
- All systems are energy self-sufficient.

Green features:
- Triple glazed windows
- Structurally insulated panels (SIP's) provide R-60 roof and R-40 walls
- Net zero energy heating system fueled by a pellet-fired boiler
- Passive air conditioning
- Extensive lighting is all high efficacy LED lighting
- Solar electric and thermal; grid intertied photovoltaic system with battery backup
- Combined hydronic mechanical system with hot water used for heating and domestic hot water
- Pellet-fired boiler assisted by solar thermal
- No VOC finishes or adhesives
- Building materials all sustainably harvested or high recycle content
- Landscape permaculture with rain and grey water storage ponds
- All lighting ventilation, heating, and power usage is controlled and monitored from the owner's iPad with the Savant system.

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This "green" exterior renovation features a 50 year Standing Seam Metal Roof with Thin Film Solar Panels that integrate directly onto the metal roof. In addition to a 5kw solar system, we also installed a Solar Thermal System underneath the metal roof that traps heat and then converts it into hot water for the entire home! This "green" roof system utilizes multiple technologies to achieve optimal results. The metal roof provides a 100% recyclable solution to petroleum based asphalt while thin film solar panels offset up to 50% of the home's electrical use all while converting excessive attic heat in the summer into hot water! But the real beauty of these renewable energy options is just that, they're actually beautiful too. Instead of bulky solar panels, metal roofing with thin film solar is aesthetically pleasing and adds curb appeal to the home all while saving the environment.

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This Seattle area lakefront home is Built Green Certified and just what the owners had in mind for retirement. With a Master Suite on the first floor and Guest bedrooms and bathroom on the second floor, this energy-efficient home is an idyllic setting for an active, retired couple. Close to a popular walking and biking trail on the lakefront, it draws from the natural elements around it helping it to blend in with the nearby settings. With the entire elevation facing the lake full of glazing, the elements are apparent, year-round, whether mid-winter storms, or early spring sunrises. Radiant-floor heating, managed-forest wood floors and formaldehyde-free cabinets are just some of the features that contribute to the overall indoor air quality. The roof and siding boast lifetime warranties, while the lake side deck is constructed of durable Ipe hardwood, all making for a home that will last for many generations.

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Meadowlark Builders has taken a run-down Victorian home built in 1910 and transformed it into a showplace for energy efficiency, smart building technology, and family-friendly design. The new design of the home addresses the aesthetic the owner's were looking for; and their desire for 'green' building is reflected in the USGBC's LEED Platinum certification. Nearly 100% of the framing lumber removed during deconstruction was reclaimed by the house as finished surfaces, giving the home a rich, timeless quality. The original chimney bricks were salvaged and re-installed into a new double-sided, gas fireplace. Careful removal and abatement of the asbestos siding uncovered the original "gingerbread" fretwork in the gables. This was lovingly restored resulting in a truly distinctive exterior. A custom Meadowlark kitchen, along with a floor plan that captures the views over the city, make this home not only smart and 'green', but also a joy to live in.

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