Is Green Architecture in Our Future

The understood definition of green architecture as environmentally conscious design techniques in the field of architecture gives us a point of reference. Sustainable architecture is encircled by the larger discussion of sustainability and the pressing economic issues we face in the world today.

Now, how is this going to be our future? Green architecture? I read information about how designers are working fervently towards an average sustainable home for everyday folks. Construction designs need to meld the natural surroundings together with local resources to cut costs for the average homeowner. The rising cost of heat and water, two important aspects for a dwelling has scientists looking for alternatives, looking to find efficient means of delivery while keeping local materials a priority.

In keeping with the thought process of trying to deliver a green home for an average family, Philadelphia has a model row home for $125,000. Complete with solar heating, bamboo floors and cement walls. The design kept simple lines to work with small spaces. Utilizing spacesaver techniques for storage. Placement of windows for maximum heat. When I saw a picture of the inside, I was impressed, the furnishings were sustainable and eco aware. Green architecture is possible on a realistic budget. You don't need a million to create a green livable space.

Baltimore, MD has started rehab on its row homes using green materials. Using tankless water heaters, low flush toilets, low Voc paint and bamboo flooring. Downtown areas were issused over 17,000 permits to renovate and rehab homes, giving them a chance to install green solutions to their own home.

Modern prefab construction comes to Jersey City. A resident, asked a local architect if he could create a prefab green home for about $250,00. The architect estimated at $252,000. Mr. Carpenter, the resident, had his home created out of 18 insulated concrete panels. He has cedar on the front of his home to blend in with the rest of the neighborhood. The architect used radiant heating coils under the concrete basement floor and the upstairs bamboo flooring. He has a green roof that is pitched to collect solar energy. This home has the potential for mass customization in similar neighborhoods.

As our government recognises the benefits of updating architecture in our country I feel we will see more initiatives given to creating green architecture. We already have green stimulus going on right now allowing us the ability to try new designs. By proving sustainable living lasts longer and is easier to create we may be seeing green architecture in our future as "the norm."


------

Kathy Bampfield enjoys sharing time with her online family at Green Guide Tips. Helping online friends figure out "What does going green mean?" When she is not online she is a cashier at the local Whole Foods Market. Discover her new Series, Starting with Seven in 2011 at http://www.greenguidetips.com