DESIGNED FOR EFFICIENCY

New designs touted as reducing energy costs and pollution
Michael Morton, December 13, 2009 (Daily News Tribune)

"Carpets and rugs just block heat from energy-efficient radiant floors, so design consultant William Churchill decided to simply polish the concrete lining his multistory sustainable home rising from the banks of the Sudbury…[part of] Churchill's endeavor to erect a home earning a special green certification known as Leadership in Environmental Energy and Environmental Design, or LEED.

"With production of energy and power for buildings responsible for roughly two-fifths of national carbon dioxide emissions, the certification is touted as a means to reduce pollution and reliance on fossil fuels…But LEED also goes beyond conserving energy and tapping renewable sources, taking into account building on environmentally friendly sites, limiting water consumption, using nontoxic paints and finishes and employing local or recycled building materials."

Churchill's polished concrete floor and an efficient heating system. (click to enlarge)

"Applicants spend hundreds of dollars to register new homes and schools and new or renovated commercial projects with the nonprofit U.S. Green Building Council, racking up marks on a 100-point scale and aiming for one of four ascending levels: certified, silver, gold and platinum…

"…But though the government offers incentives to weatherize homes and install personal alternative energy systems, it does not [provide incentives] for LEED certification, and the building council lists just three area homes…Unlike other projects, LEED-eligible homes must be inspected by a certified firm…[There said to be] three types of applicants: affordable housing developers looking to attract investors, architects and builders looking for a market edge, and residents pursuing dream homes…[C]ertified projects can cost more [but they are better buildings]…"

Churchill's custom air venting system. (click to enlarge)

"Churchill wanted the challenge of creating a structure that provided good air quality for his asthmatic girlfriend, durability and energy-efficiency. While he recommends simply hiring a trusted green builder for long-term habitation, he decided the LEED stamp offered a selling point to future buyers…The angular, modernist home features insulated beams made of steel, a recycled material and a durable one. The metal also comprises the insulated interlocking wall panels, typically used in cold storage facilities.

"To hit the LEED mark, Churchill recycled and tracked all construction debris…But the home proved so airtight, Churchill needed a venting system, with exiting air warming the incoming flow to trim energy use. Also, the steel exterior formed a "shield," requiring a special antenna for cell reception. And even before he began, he realized he would have to serve as his own general contractor, since no home builder dealt with steel…"