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Smaller, greener, modular: the homes of the future?
07/01/10
Edited by Andy Jowett. A collection of new demonstration homes at the upcoming International Builders' Show in Las Vegas, Nevada will highlight the trend for smaller, greener and modular designs in residential property.
GoHouse by Genesis Homes is a factory-built, modular property, USA Today reports.
It comes in two basic styles and buyers can customise its size and features. Genesis claims the properties can be manufactured and installed on site almost anywhere in the US within 90 days.
The one-bedroom, one-bathroom Osprey design by Nationwide Custom Homes incorporates cork, bamboo and recycle wood in its design, as well as a thin film of solar panels on its metal roof that generates electricity.
Palm Harbor Homes has two demonstration homes in the show - the 2,280 square feet La Linda and the Highland, which has formaldehyde-free insulation, low-flush toilets and environmentally-friendly no-VOC paints.
NAHB senior programme manager of green building standards Kevin Morrow said the trend for improved energy efficiency and eco-homes is being driven by consumers.
"Keeping up with the Joneses could take on a different spin as neighbours compete for the lowest power bill on the block," he commented.
The International Builders' Show runs from 19th to 22nd January. Last year's event attracted over 61,200 visitors.
