Understanding What Makes a Green House Plan

Published on by Lauren Busser

You may recall years ago, that green homes stood out for all the long reasons. Focusing more on practical application of green technology than design they often looked utilitarian. Today there are lots of elegant green homes that combine style with comfort and efficiency. What do green house plans have to offer you though and what makes house plans “green.”  While you can save money by adding insulation and using green products, some home construction makes a green house plan’s general design energy efficient. Here are some design considerations that factor into building green house plans.

This updated version of one of our most popular house plans, this house plan is green with plenty of amenities. This house plan includes such luxuries as an open kitchen and family room floor plan and an eating bar as part of a large island. Walk-in closets can be found in all of secondary bedroom as well as private dressing areas. A bonus area includes triple dormers for lots of natural light.

Windows and Orientation

If you want to save money on your energy bill then make sure you design your home so that the maximum amount of daylight comes through your windows. Lots of green house plans are designed with lots of windows and your builder can help you position the home on your lot to make sure you get the most out of them.

Most green homes are oriented towards the south where they get more light during the summer and heat from the sun during winter.  This is also true when you consider addng solar technology. South facing roofs make for the best receptors of solar energy.

Durable Materials                                                                                

Durable is synonymous with eco-friendly when it comes to home construction. Using durable materials in the construction of a green house plan means that since they won’t need to be replaced less waste is produced, that that alone decreases your footprint. Almost all conventional building materials have a more sustainable eco-friendly alternative, so you can be sure to find something eco-friendly for every situation that will arise. Some popular eco-friendly materials include bamboo flooring, cotton insulation, and recycled glass counter tops.

Part of our green house plan collection this craftsman house plan merges time-tested design and unadorned elegance. The main level of this house plan is where you find all of the living space while upstairs is plenty of storage space. At nearly 3,000 square feet this main level has a vaulted great room, formal dining room, master suite, and eating nook. This house plan also features unique built-ins that give this home character.

Downsized House Plans

Smaller homes have been a rising trend in home construction and smaller house plans do tend to be more energy efficient. You don’t have to sacrifice comfort to be green though. Plenty of homes with a footprint of less than 2,500 feet are not only energy efficient but use space wisely so that you don’t have to worry about feeling like you live in a shoe box.

These elements of green design help to make house plans energy efficient but there are plenty of things you can do to make your home greener during the construction process. Adding ENERGY STAR® and energy-efficient products will help you lower your bills. Just remember that you don’t have to fear green design. Check out the green house plan collections from Direct from the Designers to find your perfect green home.