Building Green

Although one of the latest trends in construction is to "build green," NOR-SON has been incorporating "green" principles in its design and build process for years. A focus on conserving natural resources, assuring energy efficiency and care, and appreciation for how construction impacts our lakes environment are values that NOR-SON has held since its inception.

Green building covers a wide array of design strategies that address material use, structural durability, air quality and energy usage. It also includes overall site design that focuses on storm water run-off, solar orientation, natural ventilation and strategies that help buildings last longer, use less energy and provide healthier environments.

Some of the benefits of building green include financial incentives–including tax benefits, utility company incentives and lower energy bills.

“To enhance water quality in our area, we have been experimenting with a number of pervious paving surfaces that allow water to percolate back into the soil. Roof gutter and rain barrel systems and shaping and planting strategies such as rain gardens, slows down the movement of water towards the lake and lets the water go back into the ground instead”, said Jesse Hopkins, an AIA certified architect employed by NOR-SON.

Other “green” methods NOR-SON recommends: using locally quarried stone which affords the same beauty and durability but cuts down on transportation costs; recycled timbers from turn-of-the-century industrial buildings instead of old-growth forests; using ceramics and masonry for their durability and low embodied energy and choosing Forest Stewardship Council certified (sustainable harvested) forest products when possible.

What is Green Building?

Energy Conservation

By using energy efficient light fixtures, mechanical equipment, and appliances, we can lower our energy usage and reduce utility bills. Programmable thermostats allow the homeowner to set back interior temperatures at night, during work hours, or other times when the building is unoccupied. Advances in building controls allow building systems to be monitored and controlled remotely over the Internet.

Resource Conservation

Construction waste accounts for 20% of waste in landfills. By using recycled materials and salvaging materials for reuse, we can reduce the burden on our landfills. Locally available materials reduce transportation costs and energy expenditures. Salvaged materials can either be reused on the project or donated to local charities, such as Habitat for Humanity, for resale.

Indoor Air Quality

Many products used in the construction and maintenance of our homes can impact the quality of the air we breathe. This is especially true for those who suffer with asthma or other respiratory ailments, chemical sensitivities, and the elderly. By using formaldehyde free and low or no-VOC (volatile organic compounds) products, we can improve the quality of the air in our homes and buildings.

Natural Ventilation

We can maximize the effects of natural ventilation by orienting homes to take advantage of prevailing winds. Natural ventilation can help to reduce summer cooling bills and improve indoor air quality.

Water Quality of Lakes and Rivers

Run-off from roofs and paved surfaces that occurs during a rainstorm can cause soil erosion and deposit sediment and other pollutants into our lakes and rivers. By limiting the footprint of our developments, landscaping with native plants, and incorporating permeable pavements where necessary, we can reduce our impact on local bodies of water.