July 7th, 2008 · No Comments

Iron railings inside the home are re-worked metal, and the smooth maple floors have seen double-duty, too, though you wouldn’t know it by looking at them. They come from gymnasium floors trod upon by tens of thousands of Houston schoolchildren.

The price for the innovative design, carefully chosen materials and other extras is $325,000. But perhaps the most telling detail about the project, in this city known for oppressive heat and humidity, are some truly startling utility bills: about $150 a month during the hottest months and $54 in the winter.

A new development next door will start at $293,000. It will be LEED certified with the U.S. Green Building Council and have even more green features available – a rainwater containment system, active and passive solar capabilities, and other elements.

“It’s like a green house on steroids, really,” Edwards-Musa quips. Meanwhile, builders in other parts of town are catching on, and she has made it her business to be an expert on green home availability in the Houston area. This is exceedingly appealing to potential buyers like the Fords, who are continuing to focus their search on energy-efficient properties.

“I would much rather have a smaller house and have things that are multi-functional,” says Era Ford, a fan of uncluttered, efficient design.

“If we do reach a point where there’s rationing of energy, the way there is rationing of water,” she adds, “you are prepared.”

Copyright © 2008 | Distributed by Noofangle Media

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