The new trend towards affordable and environmentally friendly housing
An article on environmentally-friendly construction in the RTD a few days ago, a look at the growing interest in green construction, drops that Better Housing Coalition moved “exclusively to building EarthCraft-certified developments” back in 2005, and that Habitat for Humanity’s Pillars at Oakmont will be certified as well:
Having mastered the process, Richmond Habitat will build all its future projects to EarthCraft standards, including its next one, a 15-town home development planned for T and 33rd streets in Richmond’s East End near Armstrong High School.
Thanks for posting this article! I’m looking at building a vintage style home from the ground up for my next project, unless I find a suitable house in Church Hill to restore in the next month or so. In addition to building extremely energy efficient I’m looking at doing my new projects as “green” as possible.
When you buy into a historic area you are talking a completely different ball game with a completely different set of rules.
It really depends on what kind of historic area you’re talking about. If it’s a City of Richmond Old and Historic district, then there is an additional layer of approvals required; the City’s Commission of Architectural Review must approve the plans. If it’s a State or National Historic District, then you aren’t required to seek CAR approval.
Yep – I learned the ropes on the historic district and CAR with my first restoration here. I actually want to specialize in the historic area/city of Richmond.
I actually appreciate the “control” which I believe adds value. Nothing like investing in a restoration to have someone put turquoise aluminum siding on the house beside it. Anything I build/restore will be a nice complement architecturally to the surrounding homes.
Hello Everyone – thanks for your support and enthusiasm regarding “green building”. I work for EarthCraft Virginia and right now we do have a thriving single family (new construction) certification but this year we are going to officially be launching our single family renovation certification which will be great for these older Richmond homes. Please visit our website, http://www.earthcraftvirginia.org or feel free to contact me if you have any other questions.
Daisy is awesome! Totally friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful! Don’t hesitate to contact her. She will definitely go out of her way for you.
Hi Daisy!