In an era where environmental consciousness and sustainable living have become paramount, the National Green Building Standard (NGBS) program is guiding a paradigm shift in the construction industry towards greener and more eco-friendly practices!
The NGBS provides a comprehensive framework for builders and architects to create homes that not only exude luxury but also prioritize sustainability.
Let’s dive into its certification process, explore why it matters, and unravel the elements that make a luxury home truly ‘green’ with insights from the team at Phil Kean Design Group.
The NGBS certification process
The National Green Building Standard program is more than just a label; it’s a rigorous certification process that evaluates a home’s environmental impact and energy efficiency. Phil Kean Design Group, known for their commitment to excellence in luxury architecture and design-build, understands the significance of ‘green’ home certification and continues to set new benchmarks for sustainable luxury homes.
Homes that pass NGBS certification are rated on a scale from Bronze (lowest) to Emerald (highest).
The NGBS certification process typically involves an in-depth analysis of various factors including energy efficiency, water conservation, indoor air quality, and sustainable building materials and practices. Homes seeking certification undergo meticulous inspections and performance testing to ensure they meet the stringent standards set by the program.
Phil Kean Design Group actively engages in this process, integrating sustainable technologies and materials seamlessly into their designs to create homes that meet the program’s highest levels of certification.
The National Green Building Standard certification levels include Bronze, Silver, Gold and Emerald.
Why it matters
The National Green Building Program isn’t just a checkbox for environmentally conscious homeowners; it represents a commitment to a greener future. As concerns about climate change and resource depletion continue to escalate, the importance of sustainable building practices cannot be overstated. Phil Kean Design Group recognizes that by participating in and adhering to the program, they are contributing to a global effort to reduce the carbon footprint of luxury homes.
Beyond the global impact, there are tangible benefits for homeowners as well. Green-certified homes often boast lower utility costs due to enhanced energy efficiency and water conservation measures. Additionally, these homes offer superior indoor air quality, creating a healthier living environment for residents. Phil Kean Design Group ensures that their clients not only experience the pinnacle of luxury in their homes but also enjoy the long-term benefits of reduced operating costs and a healthier lifestyle.
Phil Kean Design Group’s commitment to sustainability
A visionary in the luxury home industry, Phil Kean Design Group has been incorporating ‘green’ products and best construction methods into their luxury custom homes for over 20 years. PKDG understands that creating a truly ‘green’ home is not merely about incorporating a few eco-friendly elements; it’s a holistic approach to design and construction that prioritizes sustainability.
Winter Park, FL – A Phil Kean Design Group NGBS Certified home.
Based on their reputation and years of experience building ‘green’, PKDG was selected by the National Association of Homebuilders to showcase their homes as models of luxury ‘green’ homes at the International Builders Show in 2012, 2017 and 2021.
This PKDG show home was the Highest Scored ‘Green’ Certified Home in the State of Florida in 2012. (Photo by James F. Wilson, courtesy BUILDER magazine.)
What makes a luxury home ‘green’?
- Intelligent Design and Orientation: Phil Kean Design Group strategically plans each luxury home considering its orientation, building design, and materials choices to maximize views and natural light while limiting heat gain. The firm is well-known for designing modern luxury homes with large overhangs and expansive low-e argon windows, allowing for all day indirect natural light, and reducing the need for interior artificial lighting.
- Energy-Efficient Systems: From cutting-edge HVAC systems, to solar panels discreetly integrated into the home design, to Tesla Power Walls, Phil Kean Design Group employs state-of-the-art energy-efficient technologies to reduce energy needs from public utilities and to minimize the environmental impact of their luxury homes.
Orlando, FL – Solar panels on the roof of a Phil Kean Design Group NGBS Certified home.
- Water Conservation: In a world where water scarcity is a growing concern, luxury homes designed by Phil Kean Design Group incorporate advanced water conservation technologies, such as smart irrigation systems and water-efficient appliances and fixtures.
- Better Indoor Air Quality: Phil Kean Design Group takes a “healthy home” approach including minimizing volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions and controlling moisture and humidity. These practices produce a better indoor air quality (IAQ), making the indoors physically healthier and more comfortable.
- Sustainable Materials: Luxury design doesn’t have to come at the expense of the environment. Phil Kean Design Group meticulously selects sustainable, low-maintenance materials that not only elevate the aesthetic appeal of their homes but also contribute to the overall eco-friendliness of the construction.
- Smart Home Integration: Luxury meets efficiency with smart home technologies that not only add convenience but also optimize energy usage. Phil Kean Design Group seamlessly integrates these technologies into their designs, allowing homeowners to monitor and control their homes’ energy consumption with ease.
Conclusion
The National Green Building Standard program is not just a set of guidelines; it’s a catalyst for change in the luxury home construction industry.
Phil Kean Design Group exemplifies how luxury and sustainability can coexist with their unwavering commitment to design excellence and best construction practices, and by embracing the National Green Building Standard certification process. Their experience proves that a commitment to ‘green’ building is not a compromise, but an elevation of luxury living.
Interested in building a sustainable, modern home in Florida? Contact us to get started today!