Showcase in Colorado features homes with green design

Those in Summit County, Colorado, who are looking for ideas for their new home will have a chance to be inspired by some of the areas most beautiful abodes in the coming weeks as the Summit County Parade of Homes kicks off September 18. The Summit Daily News reports that event will features 23 houses and place an emphasis on green design.

Many of the homes on display have been designed by architects who have taken special care to make them environmentally friendly. Along with being attractive buildings, many of them are furnished with materials such as reclaimed siding, recycled shingles and engineered lumber.

The news outlet reports that a number of these homes are exceptionally energy efficient as well. Southern exposed windows, solar thermal heating and solar photovoltaic arrays are all used. Several of the houses earned Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design certification from the U.S. Green Building Council as well.

Homeowners looking to tread lightly on the environment may want to consider installing woven bamboo shades. Producing woven bamboo shades does little damage to the environment because the bamboo plant quickly regenerates.