• Harmony with natural surroundings

• Use of natural materials and products for optimal comfort, health, energy and resource conservation, and aesthetics; and
  
  
• Enduring qualities derived from meeting and, wherever possible, exceeding building codes for safety and protection from natural disaster
  

HEALTHFUL and STRONG

• Sited to optimize natural day lighting and breezes for optimal cross ventilation and for bringing the outdoors in

• All materials chosen to ensure lowest possible chemical off-gassing

• All materials chosen to resist/minimize mold and other bacteria

• Designed to accommodate children, the elderly, and disabled

• Structural integrity with use of timber framing and structural insulated panels to exceed codes that protect against damage from natural disasters

• Hurricane glass and/or storm shutters in areas of greatest vulnerability
  
  
• Slate-like composite roofing for strength, endurance, and longevity

• All hardware used will resist weathering and provide maximum strength and security.
  
  
• All fasteners and nails will be hot-dipped galvanized steel, stainless steel, or copper, depending on application

• Engineered to withstand 145 mph winds. Windows and exterior doors are all made in Germany, and are certified to be 130 mph, large missile-impact resistant.

• Timber framing and/or structural insulated panels achieve impressive energy efficiency, resource conservation, and waste reduction aims

• Each house is built to fit in with and honor the natural surroundings

• HVAC ducts are fabricated of metal, insulated, and located in a manner that ensures the most effective and efficient airflows

• Low E, double-pane, Argon gas-insulated windows minimize external heat gain while maximizing natural light. They are selected to be operable wherever possible to assure comfort on days when air conditioning or heating are not required

• All plumbing fixtures are of highest quality and greatest efficiency ratings

• Expansive windows bring in natural light and reduce reliance on electrical systems minimizing the need for artificial lighting. Any task lighting uses fluorescent bulbs for greater efficiency and longer life

• Rainwater harvesting for irrigation and for gray water applications where desired

• All homes are built with locally produced/manufactured materials where possible
  
  
• Armature will be available for solar panels when the systems become affordable

LOW MAINTENANCE AND AESTHETICALLY PLEASING

• All floors and surfaces use natural materials that require minimal upkeep and maintenance
  
  
• All wood (except the pilings) is untreated standing dead, reclaimed, or sustainably harvested

• All designs are simple, open, elegant, and timeless, avoiding trends that date houses