With all the talk about the energy crisis, environmental destruction, and increased toxic exposure, how can it be that energy efficiency, health, and durability are not the primary selling points of a home? The average home buyer is more concerned with design trends and surface-level aesthetics, or least it seems that way.
I began to research energy efficient and healthy home building practices, and I knew I'd fallen down another rabbit hole.
First, I came across the concept of passive solar design. In short, it's a design method which requires buildings to be oriented in a way that allows them to be heated by the sun's rays during the cold winter months (free heat!), while at the same time keeping buildings cool during the hot summer months by creating strategic areas of shade. No solar panels needed!
Realizing that we can massively reduce heating and cooling costs simply by orienting buildings properly was a revelation for me.
Why was something so seemingly obvious not a standard practice? Why should we prioritize facing the street, instead of facing the sun? What else weren't we doing to create healthier, more efficient homes?
I was both excited by the possibilities and also angry that this basic design principle was being ignored, creating tons of waste and inefficiency.
Of course, I quickly realized that passive solar design was just the tip of the iceberg in what should be “common sense” home building and renovation practices that create healthier, more efficient living environments.
From applying interior wall finishes like clay plaster to prevent mold and improve air quality, to sourcing high quality and locally-available salvaged materials to reduce costs and environmental impact, I began to see so many ways to improve our homes and the quality of life for those living in them.
The reason we aren’t seeing more intelligently-designed homes became apparent:
The average consumer isn't educated on what makes a home healthy, energy efficient, and durable, so they do not demand that homes be built and renovated to a higher standard.
Beginning to understand the principles behind healthy and energy-efficient homes has transformed the way I approach real estate. I'm inspired to educate others and spread awareness about ways that we can create healthier, more resilient living environments for ourselves and future generations.
Here's to a brighter future!