I realize that in order to build "green", there is a certain few things that need to be addressed.
One of those things is using what's available before wasting money on materials that you don't really need to buy.
I've got a few ads up on local sites like craigslist to help dig up some free fill for my dad's yard, and also to find used or unwanted masonry supplies for my home.
Anything masonry, block, brick, sand, stone, etc... I'll take any of it.
What I'm looking for from this post: Ideas.
I really just want to know what kind of floor plans and whatnot you guys can come up with that will help with keeping green.
Here are a few cues to get everyone started:
- The piece of land is at the edge of an artesian stream.
- It's on a shaded hill, about 100 feet laterally from the road, and about 30 feet above the road level.
- The road is dirt, and mostly private.
- The average grade of the hill is almost 45*, but there is a flat area where the pad for the house is being laid.
- Most of the work will be performed by my hand.
- There will be NO stairs. We won't even consider it.
- We need a 2 car garage, preferably not attached. (Insurance reasons).
- There is NOT a good solar presence in the direct area, but 200 feet away, there is a GREAT area (still my father's land, which we plan to use for a KART track later on, but could sacrifice some of the land.)
- We don't want to use wood for the main structure of the home, nor anything chemically treated.
- The stream is VERY small, but flows nicely except in parts of winter time... maybe a hydro-dam?
So whatcha got?
I'll get some pics of the area this weekend while I'm up there, to further facilitate the thought process.
Floor plan ideas are welcome too!
We require:
- At least 3 bedrooms
- At least 2 bathrooms (master and home).
- A "great room"... open living room/den, dining area, and kitchen.