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Sustainable or "green" design is a general term that describes environmentally-conscious design techniques. Sustainable design seeks to minimize the negative environmental impact of buildings by enhancing efficiency and moderation in the use of materials, energy, and development space.
Green design is a complex issue, made even more intricate by the sheer quantity of "green" products and advertising. Houghland Architecture can help you sort through the marketing to develop a holistic approach to your project - one that is not product based, but system based. In the end, we are creating a building that must successfully perform its most basic functions and be "green".
Houghland Architecture is a member of the U.S. Green Building Council, and Gray Houghland is a LEED AP- Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Accredited Professional.
Green Building Resources
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US Green Building Council is a non-profit organization that administers the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Green Building Rating System. This certification program provides third-party verification that a building is environmentally responsible and a healthy place to live or work.
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Green Home Guide is a broad guide to residential green design and construction presented by the US Green Building Council and LEED for Homes.
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US Department of Engergy - Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy - Building Technologies Program
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DSIRE is a comprehensive source of information on state, local, utility, and federal incentives that promote renewable energy and energy efficiency.
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Energy Star homes program includes energy modeling and performance testing to ensure an energy efficient home. Some utility companies recognize the advantages of this program and offer a 5% discount on electricity bills for the life of the house.
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EarthCraft House is a green building program that serves as a blueprint for healthy comfortable homes that reduce utility bills and protect the environment.
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NC HealthyBuilt Homes Program provides a certificate for homes meeting "green home guidelines" built by residential builders who practice sustainable, high performance building strategies making the home a comfortable, healthy and affordable place that reduces energy and water usage, promotes renewable energy use and helps protect the land where the home is built.
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National Green Building Program - the National Association of Home Builders is helping its members move the practice of green building into the mainstream. Energy efficiency, water and resource conservation, sustainable or recycled products, and indoor air quality are increasingly incorporated into the everyday process of home building.
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