Definition: Green architecture, or green design, is an approach to building that minimizes harmful effects on human health and the

environment. The "green" architect or designer attempts to safeguard air, water, and earth by choosing eco-friendly building materials and construction practices. Green architecture may have many of these characteristics:
y y y y y y y y y y y y

Ventilation systems designed for efficient heating and cooling Energy-efficient lighting and appliances Water-saving plumbing fixtures Landscapes planned to maximize passive solar energy Minimal harm to the natural habitat Alternate power sources such as solar power or wind power Non-synthetic, non-toxic materials Locally-obtained woods and stone Responsibly-harvested woods Adaptive reuse of older buildings Use of recycled architectural salvage Efficient use of space

While most green buildings do not have all of these features, the highest goal of green architecture is to be fully sustainable. Also Known As: Sustainable development, eco-design, eco-friendly architecture, earth-friendly architecture, environmental architecture, natural architecture Examples:
y y y y y

The Magney House: Energy-conserving home by Australian architect Glenn Murcutt LEAFHouse: A vine-covered solar house designed by students from the University of Maryland Katrina Cottage: Low-cost and energy-efficient emergency pre-fab housing Solar-Powered Victorian: A historic inn with high-tech photovoltaic panels Earth House: This home in Loreto Bay, Mexico is made with compressed earth blocks

Green Architecture y y y

Build to Save Energy Build With Earth Green Building Links

Healthy Homes y y y

Is Your House Making You Sick? Build a Healthy Home Universal Design

New posts to the Architecture forums:

y y y

exterior remodeling ideas wanted exterior remodeling hallway