From canvas grocery bags and recycled paper towels to hybrid cars and eco-friendly product packaging, the ‘green’ movement has permeated many different facets of our daily lives. When it comes to home building trends, things are no different.

The concept of green home design has been gaining steam for several years. Today, there are many different ways to incorporate environmentally friendly and sustainable practices and materials into the design and construction of a new home, including:

Size: Smaller spaces can be more eco-friendly for several reasons, including reduced energy consumption and fewer building materials. Thanks to smart design, shrinking square footage doesn’t mean cramped quarters, however; multi-purpose rooms, indoor/outdoor living spaces and open floor plans can make smaller, more energy-efficient homes seem expansive.

Location: When selecting a spot to build your brand new home, consider this: choosing a location where you can take advantage of natural features – sunlight, wind, water, soil and elevation, to name a few—can help reduce energy costs and building materials.

Materials: The use of eco-friendly, sustainable and non-toxic materials is a popular green initiative. Commonly used materials include recycled glass countertops, renewable plant products (such as bamboo) and lumber from sustainable forests.

Foliage: What better way to “go green” than by planting native trees on your property? Strategic landscaping can provide shade, reduce noise and offer privacy. When it comes to grass, choose a variety that requires minimal watering and maintenance.

­­Energy-efficient design, sustainable materials and natural features are all ‘green’ house plan features that can reduce long-term costs while still adding to your home’s value. If you’re looking to lessen your environmental impact, consider utilizing these practices when building your next home.