Think about each area of your home and how you utilize the space. You’ll then be better positioned to know where to place your most integral light sources – whether that’s overhead fixtures, accent lights, ambient lighting or a combination of all three. From there you can choose the light fixtures that are best suited to each individual space, in terms of type of both the light as well as design and bulb choice.

2. Assemble your team

The success of your project comes down to your team, which could include a general contractor, architect, custom builder, interior designer and landscape designer. Ask friends and family for referrals, check out their websites and portfolios to see if you like their work and feel confident in their process. Narrow it down to a small few and set up meetings to determine which one is a good fit for your and your vision. At this stage in the process, contractors can usually provide a ballpark estimate of costs for the work you have in mind.

Wood is a natural resource and forest products industry, points out that wood has “lower thermal conductivity compared to concrete, steel-frame and masonry construction,” making it a great choice for energy-efficient building design. The organization also showcases wood as an ideal choice for Passive House and other energy-based standards, and notes that it can play a leading role in helping the constructing industry meet the provincial requirement that all new buildings be net-zero energy ready by 2032.

Wood is also naturally healthy. Studies have shown that interior spaces incorporating wood can have a calming effect on occupants, lowering both blood pressure and heart rate. Wood is also known for its ability to regulate interior humidity and improve indoor air quality.

Identify renewable energy systems that meet your needs

Your design-build team can connect you to industry professionals who will help determine which renewable energy systems best suit you based on location, sun exposure, square footage, budget and local zoning requirements.

Geothermal systems are one option. They transfer ground heat to your home in winter, while in the summer, they move heat from your home back into the ground. These systems are popular, as they are an all-in-one furnace and air conditioner. Another option is solar energy to heat and power your home. Adequately sized to your family’s energy use, a solar-based system can also heat a pool or hot tub. 

A thorough architect or builder will be sure to specify hidden features that bolster those energy savings, including proper insulation and walls or rooflines that serve as thermal breaks. The ultimate goal for energy-conscious homeowners is to be “net zero,” where you produce more energy than you use–a financial boon.

When creating a more energy-efficient home, homeowners have many excellent options as the demand for more eco-friendly building increases worldwide.

Climate Control

Getting into a car that isn’t too hot or cold is always appreciated. When working in your garage, a comfortable ambient temperature makes staying attuned to your task easy. If yours is a new build, consider insulated exterior garage walls and extend the home’s heating and cooling systems into the garage. In an existing residence, insulate the exterior walls and install a mini split heater/cooler. Either way, your climate system can be operated from a smartphone, making your space ready when you are—no more cold car seats in winter. And when you return home on snowy days, heated driveways keep your homecoming ice-free, and built-in drainage carries away melt-off.