By Rita Giese
It wasn’t long ago when paradigm and synergy were the “buzz” words that represented change in society. Now, the “buzz” is all about sustainability, green, organic and carbon footprint. Green building is far from a new concept. However, there is a wide range of interpretation - directly related to the internet and television – between professional builders and the general public.

After almost 16 hours of instruction at a recent Green Building for Professionals course at the HBA of Kitsap office, I asked where do those bamboo floors, concrete countertops and recycled glass tiles come into play? For two days, we discussed the home structure inside–out, but what about green / organic finish treatments and suppliers of such? Right there is some of the misconception about green building. Sustainability and green are more about building smaller and smarter, constructing more energy-efficient, healthier homes. Green finishes show best on TV.

The more building professionals and the public get educated about green building, the more it is common sense; and the more people realize the cost-savings are not up front at construction, but rather long–term savings by an extended home’s life.

Smaller and healthier
There’s not much sustainable in super–sizing home plans. However, contrary thinking is sustainable … can your carbon footprint be smaller? Think about where you spend the most time in your home. How much square footage do you really live in? How much less energy can you use? How much less building materials will it take? How much less waste will it create? How much more land can you leave undisturbed on your building site?

To meet current energy, building and permitting codes, home are being built tighter than ever before. Thus, whole house ventilation has never been more important to healthier living. Timers or sensors can be added to exhaust fans in baths, kitchens and laundries. There are other areas were exhaust fans equal better health – the garage, walk-in storage closets, pantries, hobby rooms, exercise rooms, as well as offices and other spaces where electronics produce heat.

Sustainable and green
Recycling centers are easy additions to any design; a dedicated space can be drawn or else designated in the cabinetry layout. Outdoors, the plan can include a garden station with covered work bench, sink, compost bin, rainwater irrigation, native or even dry bed landscaping.

Passive solar heat is free if you correctly site your home. Design windows and skylights to capture Southwest sunlight; tile floors also store heat; wide roof overhangs help shade afternoon heat, so do trees. Careful planning equals cost savings.