Building Sustainability Into a Home, Layer by Layer

Sustainability is one of the things I care about most in design, and it works best when it is built in from the start. When I designed the Terra Vive Residence, a concept for an eco-conscious home, I worked through it one layer at a time.

The roof

Solar shingles act as both a roof covering and a solar energy system. They blend into the roofline without bulky panels, reducing reliance on fossil fuels while keeping the home's look intact.

The walls

Precast concrete offers strong thermal mass, helping a house hold a steady indoor temperature by absorbing and slowly releasing heat. Because it is prefabricated, it also minimizes construction waste and shortens build times.

The floors

Precast concrete with integrated radiant heating distributes warmth evenly and reduces the need for forced-air systems. A bamboo finish adds a natural, warm look, and bamboo is rapidly renewable.

Doors and windows

Double-glazed, low-emissivity glass lets in plenty of natural light while minimizing heat loss. Placed carefully, windows also encourage cross-ventilation, keeping a home fresh without leaning on mechanical systems.

The systems behind the walls

• Geothermal heating uses the earth's stable temperatures for heating and cooling. Installation typically runs from $20,000 to $30,000, with savings of up to 50% on heating and cooling bills.
• Rainwater harvesting collects and filters rainwater for uses such as irrigation. Installation typically runs from $5,000 to $15,000, with up to 30% off water bills.
• Grey water systems reuse water around the home, lowering both consumption and utility bills.

These figures are rough guides, and the right answer always depends on the home. The bigger lesson is that eco-friendly design does not have to look any different. It simply asks better questions earlier.