What It Takes To Go Green

From countertops made of recycled paper to bamboo floors, learn from one couple who made their eco-friendly dream house.

1 minute read

March 19, 2006, 7:00 AM PST

By David Gest

"Going green often requires alternative materials for home construction. The Smiths used insulated concrete panels for the walls. These panels help regulate internal temperature so less energy is used for heating and cooling. Architects also adapted a floor system modeled after a design dating back to the Romans, according to Farr Associates. A series of interconnected ducts is sandwiched between pre-cast concrete panels on the bottom, and a layer of poured concrete on top. Warm or cool air is circulated through these ducts to provide more efficient temperature regulation."

"Good green design also incorporates on-site 'materials' -- natural features that can improve the house."

FULL STORY: Scenes of green

Sunday, March 12, 2006 in The Chicago Tribune

Environment Housing United States

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Get top-rated, practical training

Start Learning

Advertise with us

Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools

This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.