Fresh perspectives on how good design can create stylish yet ecologically sound living spaces in small-scale homes. Anyone who has faced the challenges of limited living space will find inspiration in this survey of the latest trends in environmentally sensitive, small-scale residential designs. More than fifty residential spaces are profiled—from woodsy houses and repurposed barns to cool apartments and urban lofts—both inside and out. Most of the projects were designed by up-and-coming architects, and each design proves that small-scale efficiency as well as beautiful, thoughtful design can overcome the apparent constraints of a small setting. Environmental impact is a growing concern, so each project was chosen because of its ecological sensitivity. Each case history describes the challenges confronting the designer and the solutions. Creating color schemes to enhance the feeling of openness, taking advantage of high ceilings to make multiple levels, and using collapsible furniture and sliding doors to maximize space are some of the design solutions that can be applied in any situation. Filled with beautiful color photographs and helpful floorplans, this book is a remarkable showcase of how good design can transform any small space into a comfortable, modern—and environmentally sensitive—home.

A stunning, full-color showcase of the latest innovations in sustainable architecture and eco-friendly design, featuring thirty-five diverse homes. Today’s architects, designers, building craftsman, and homeowners are becoming more environmentally conscious, choosing eco-friendly living spaces with small carbon footprints that are built with sustainable materials. New Eco Homes explores various aspects of modern eco design, from its environmental and economical benefits, to factors considered when choosing materials: how much energy went into manufacturing the product, whether it is long lasting, and whether it can be recycled or safely disposed of as it eventually breaks down. It also examines important details involved in building, such as climate regulation, drainage systems, and regional planning. Each of the thirty-five projects contain photographs, floor plans, and detailed drawings that illustrate certain sustainable features, revealing how much the parameters of ecological design have expanded in just a few short years. New Eco Homes includes an introductory interview with an international specialist in green building, site plans, architectural drawings, and a complete directory of resources. Combining concern for the environmental with aesthetic sensibility, it is an essential resource for architects, designers, and homeowners interested in creating warm and inviting homes that are not only beautiful to inhabit, but help protect and conserve our natural environment as well.

Featuring an extensive collection of full-color photographs, 150 Best Eco House Ideas features eco-friendly house designs created by internationally renowned architects and designers who have achieved practical, innovative, and stunning solutions adapted to the specific needs and tastes of their clients. Included here are the latest innovations in sustainable home design, including solar paneling, wind energy systems, environmentally-friendly heating and cooling solutions, thermal glazing, and trombe walls. 150 Best Eco House Ideas covering the diversity of current trends in sustainable home design, and is both the perfect resource for designers, interior decorators, and architects, as well an inspirational sourcebook for all homeowners interested in creating warm and inviting homes that cause only a fraction of the environmental impact of those created using conventional building methods.

GREEN HOMES presents the latest innovations in sustainable architecture in design. After an introductory interview with an international specialist in green building, the book features 35 projects, including houses, apartments, offices, sports facilities, and factories. It explores various aspects of green design, from its ecological and economical benefits, to factors considered when choosing materials: how much energy went into manufacturing the product, whether it is long lasting, and whether it can be recycled or safely disposed of as it breaks down over time. Specific topics covered include climate regulation, drainage systems, and regional planning. Each project contains photographs, floor plans and detailed drawings that illustrate certain sustainable features, revealing reveal how much the parameters of ecological design have expanded in just a few short years.

A stunning look at how people around the world are using prefabrication to create energy-efficient, sustainable, and stylish homes. Prefabulous World is the fourth book in Sheri Konnes’s revolutionary Prefabulous series. Presenting an international look at sustainable home design, it explores a compelling range of design styles and cutting-edge green technologies. The rising cost of fuel and the growing commitment to protect the environment have sparked exciting innovations in prefab home construction around the world. Showcasing many of the unlimited possibilities offered by prefabrication to build increasingly energy-efficient homes, Prefabulous World features fifty sophisticated examples of eco-friendly home design in Australia, New Zealand;Japan, Canada, the United States, England, Germany, South Africa, and beyond. “As we look into the future, it is clear the more and more intelligent materials and energies will be brought to hand as preassembled optimized components and systems, and they will be beautiful—just witness the homes we enjoy discovering in this lovely book.” —William McDonough, designer, advisor, thought leader, and co-author of Cradle to Cradle and The Upcycle

"How can we protect the environment when we build homes? What kinds of recycled materials can builders use to make homes green? Are there any Earth-friendly ways to heat and cool buildings? An architect's notebook helps answer these questions and more in Green Homes."--Page 4 of cover.

A comprehensive resource on ecological health in the home and how to achieve it.