Green

Elliot H. Johnson, AIA has been a leader in green building in Austin, Texas, and an active member of the City of Austin Green Building Program since 1992.

Elliot has completed the design of numerous homes rated five-star by the City of Austin Green Building Program . We have worked with Strawbale, Rammed Earth, ICF's, Cob, Cast Earth and Conventionally Framed structures.

Why Build Green?

Green building has come of age and moved into the mainstream. It has always been the right way to build, and in the last few years it has become the smart way as well. Green Building now makes both common and economic sense.

What is a five-star green home?

The City of Austin Green Building Program rates residences from one to five stars, a five-star rating reflecting optimal adherence to sustainability.

I rate each green building project at no cost to the client according to the City of Austin Green Building Program standards. Determining "how green" your home is gives you confidence in your contribution to protecting the environment and can be attractive to more environmentally sensitive consumers when selling your home.

Style?

I have always believed a green home does not have to be a particular style or look, but rather can be designed however the client wants.

Net-Zero Homes

The next phase of Green Building for us has been working towards Net-Zero Home. These are homes that produce their electrical power needs on-site via renewable energy systems, mostly rooftop Photovoltaic (PV) systems.

In order for a home to be capable of producing the entirety of power on-site, the residence has to first be designed in a super efficient manner. Sustainable design features might include Geothermal HVAC systems, increased foam insulation, increased window efficiency, and just about everything including the 'kitchen sink'!

This home was designed to be net-zero, however, many factors can influence whether a home is functionally net-zero. These can include the plans and specifications being followed, pools, electric cars, and overall homeowner habits.

Sustainable Design Principles