Green building takes root

As architects and builders push the boundaries of green construction, unique structures emerge.Here are snapshots of three very different green buildings in the Houston area. Each makes the most of natural or recycled materials, sunlight and shade. And each is proof that great design can be green.

ZEROW House

Location: Ultimately, a Third Ward neighborhood

Background

The 800-square-foot home was designed by Rice University students for the 2009 U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon, a competition held this month in Washington, D.C. It cost $140,000 to build, but the Rice team thinks it could do it prefab for less.

Green practices

The house runs entirely on solar power. LED lighting is used throughout, which keeps the total wattage below 200. Flooring is all bamboo. Outside, the house is clad with Galvalume metal panels, which are made from some recycled materials. A green wall of vines helps keep outside walls cool.

Quote

"We've been focused on making this an affordable house for Houston, specifically," said Roque Sanchez, 22, a master's student studying environmental engineering at Rice. "We've known it was going to be donated to Project Row House, in Houston. Hopefully, this house will last in Houston for 100 years."