Frustrated with complicated and restrictive green-building certification programs and the under-enforced building code, a group of architects and builders in Portland, Maine, came up with the idea of the Pretty Good House. What, they asked, should you include in a house that does right for its inhabitants and the planet, but that does not go beyond reasonable environmental or financial payback? In a nutshell, a Pretty Good House is a house that's as small as possible (remember The Not So Big House?); it is simple and durable, but also well designed; it uses wood and plant-derived products as construction materials; it includes photovoltaic panels or is PV-ready; it should be insulated and air-sealed well enough that heating and cooling systems can be minimal, and, above all, it is affordable, healthy, responsible, and resilient.

About the Author
Christopher Briley is principal architect at BRIBURN, a firm that designs and creates spaces that are energy efficient, durable, and environmentally friendly and that enhance the lives of their residents. Dan Kolbert is a carpenter and contractor, and for the past 10 years has been moderator of the original building science discussion group in Portland, Maine, where the Pretty Good House idea originated. Michael Maines is a residential designer specializing in energy-efficient homes, sensitive renovations, and custom kitchens. He is a contributing editor to Fine Homebuilding magazine. Emily Mottram is the founder and principal of Mottram Architecture, specializing in new homes and renovations that are beautiful, functional, comfortable, healthy, and durable.


Book Information
ISBN 9781641551656
Author Christopher Briley
Format Hardback
Page Count 224
Imprint Taunton Press Inc
Publisher Taunton Press Inc