School has certainly changed since I was young. Whereas most schools are little more than brick and concrete boxes dropped unceremoniously in the middle of suburban sprawl, Lucy School is a renovated 19th century barn located on a 17-acre farm outside of Middletown, MD. The building, nestled in the rolling slopes of Middletown valley, surrounded by pastures and farmland, features early learning spaces inspired by the Milan School of Design and the educational philosophy of Reggio Emilia. But while the aesthetics are inspired by the old world, behind the walls of this... [Read more]

GreenBEES, an acronym for Green Building for Economic and Environmental Sustainability, is the brainchild of Bob Hanson and Randy Williams. This is not their first straw bale insulated house, but it is none the less a fascinating case study in sustainable green building.  Distance traveled to the site, types of materials, and the energy used in creating the materials are just a few of the variables considered in this project. The expectation is that, in the end, the house will use around $20 of electric power per month. The basic structure is a timber frame with straw... [Read more]

Damien D. Edwards, a licensed home inspector and energy auditor with Noble House Residential Services, discusses tips for making your home more energy efficient, and why a home energy audit is a good investment. Damien covers Compact Flourescent Lightbulbs, programmable thermostats, the importance of regular HVAC system tune-ups, and identifying and plugging air leaks. Even the benefits of landscaping for shade during the summer and windbreaking during the winter can help reduce heating costs by 10 to 20%. Press the “PLAY” button below to view the complete presentation… ... [Read more]

Jim Pierobon, Chief Marketing Officer for Standard Solar Inc., presents a compelling case for offsetting rising energy costs by investing in solar energy for the home. Starting with the inspirational origins of Standard Solar and its founder Neville Williams, Jim examines solar technology from a primarily financial standpoint. How much do you stand to save?  The average home can offset 30-45% of its electric load with a 4kW photovoltaic system. Government incentives for adoption of solar energy is also addressed. Press the “PLAY” button below to view the complete... [Read more]

Sheila Gregg, a LEED Accredited Professional and President of Sol Aqua Terra Holistic Architecture, thoroughly explores the planning, implementation and advocacy of sustainable community development. She covers the multiple green building rating systems, and examines local LEED and Energy Star certified buildings. Also addressed are realistic barriers to sustainable building, in addition to numerous opportunities that the movement towards sustainability offers. Press the “PLAY” button below to view the complete presentation… Visit Sol Aqua Terra.... [Read more]