Partially to give me something to do, and partially to help build my portfolio, I entered the FreeGreen.com “Who’s Next?” green home design competition. FreeGreen.com has been attempting to bring progressive home designs to mainstream America by offering free home plans to download. However the “Who’s Next?” competition is intended to kick off the launch of a new plans site with designs that are for purchase.
With over 400 entrants, the competition is stiff. Public voting began on March 2nd 2010, and will close on March 18th. The top 3 submissions will receive $5,000, a chance to develop the design and offer it on their new for sale plans site. All entries are 1,800 square feet or less and in two separate categories. The first, “The Starter House” for a young married couple looking to expand their family. The second “The Not So Empty Nest” for an older retired couple looking to downsize, yet still want to accommodate family gatherings and take into consideration potential mobility issues by the homeowner. I had the chance to enter a submission in both categories, one with an old co-worker and friend, as well as a submission on my own. So please take some time to review my submissions as well as others, and I would appreciate your support and vote. You can vote for each entry once per email address.
The Starter House
This submission was done in collaboration with Brad Pauling and he deserves most of the credit since he did the heavy lifting on the project. Our intent was to provide a recognizable/traditional exterior form with a more modern approach to the interior spaces. We utilized simple strategies to increase the solar gain and improve the natural lighting within the home. You can learn more and vote for this submission here.
The Not So Empty Nest
The design of this home separates the public living spaces from the more private sleeping areas by an entry and utility area. This home is a more modern design taking it’s inspiration from an old wooden salt shed. The design also incorporates the use of increased South facing glazing to improve the solar gain and natural lighting levels and also incorporates a trombe wall within the main living area to help even out the diurnal temperature swings. For more about the design and to vote, go here.
Joshua has a degree in architecture and is a LEED Accredited Professional that has worked in the design and construction industry for over 10 years, focusing his efforts on energy efficiency and building science. He has organized multiple events in Ohio to give young designers the opportunity to learn about “green” home design and produce actual projects. He was also a key player in Ohio’s first LEED for Homes Platinum project. Joshua is also a certified Building Analyst through the Building Performance Institute and performs home energy audits, assisting home owners in reducing their energy usage.
