Before getting specific, it all starts with orienting the building on the site. We try to take advantage of natural energy sources. Taking advantage of the sun orientation and angles, building into the topography, sheltering from winds are some of the biggest energy savers. During design, maximizing the sun in winter and minimizing it in summer with bigger overhangs, , trellises, deciduous trees, etc. Maximizing daylighting with light shelves, clerestory windows, skylights and solar tubes all add extra light that will save electricity.

Designing for efficient use of the space so you don’t need as many materials is something we keep in mind. We specify high quality windows with low E glazing. Operable windows reduce the reliance on air conditioning and ventilation. Motion detector lights are great to use to save on electrical, as well as fluorescent, LED, or halogen lamps where they make sense.

Regarding heating, radiant floor heat is something we specify quite a bit as it’s very functional. The heat is close to your body and not up in the ceiling, and you don’t get the drafts. On demand hot water heat and recirculated hot water keep you from wasting gallons of water every time you want hot water.

Insulation a little over the norm will pay for itself within a few years on energy costs, not only in the walls and roofs, but also at the floors and foundation walls. Regarding materials, we try to stay as natural as possible. Cedar is a renewable source, and we use that for siding quite a bit rather than manufactured, which doesn’t look very good to begin with. Other green materials we specify include reclaimed timbers, local stone, cedar shakes, concrete tile, stained concrete floors, tung oil finishes, natural clay, stone counter tops, energy star appliances, and rainwater collection devices, among others.

Jane Scott, ASID