Almost everyone is aware that modular homes are, on average, more energy efficient than stick-built homes. But some people point to the fact that the modules have to be driven via large, flatbed trucks to the final location as a reason why modular construction might not be as green as one might think.

It’s a valid point, but the shocking fact is – shocking even to some of us in the modular industry – that modular construction uses just 10 percent of the vehicle movements that stick built construction does. You heard that right. Even though these homes are transported on truck, modular homes rack up just a fraction of the mileage that the traditional construction process does.

It’s just another example of how modular really is the greener option.

Set on a typical flat lot, or one that gently slopes to the rear, this home focuses on a sunken courtyard and a rear, south facing veranda. These indoor/outdoor spaces expand the home’s livable space, and create secure, shaded areas that enhance its passive cooling design. A two-story water feature helps to keep the home cool as air is pulled naturally from the sunken courtyard up the open stairs and out the upper level windows.

This home also focuses on those who will live and grow within it. A private second master suite with private entrances and a bathroom that meets ADA standards allows for a secluded getaway and helps to maintain independence for the home’s older residents. Additionally, an accessible ramp, elevator and wide circulation paths allow for ease of movement by all.

Green design helps to ensure a healthy environment both indoors and out for the family and the remaining 7 billion inhabitants of the world. But sustainable or green building involves more than simply adding a low-flow faucet or installing ENERGY STAR rated appliances, and the Kaleidoscope home takes this concept to a new level. Integrated solar panels, a green roof, gray water systems, long lasting eco-friendly materials, energy monitoring devices and modular construction combine with the more common green finish materials to produce a home that is not only sustainable by  design, but also a pleasure to live in.

Like it? Don’t like it? Think something should be changed or added?
Please feel free to comment on this design by leaving a comment below.

It’s a lofty goal – contributing absolutely nothing to landfills in the process of making our homes – but we’re confident we can do it. This year we hope to reduce the amount of waste generated at our manufacturing facilities by 700 tons, and our newest facility in Marlboro, NY, is already landfill free.

Of course, being landfill free doesn’t mean producing zero waste. There will be waste and scraps associated with the construction process (although still far less than stick-built homes), but our goal is to recycle or repurpose that waste so that nothing goes to, well, waste.

We’re doing that by training plant employees to throw away less and be more concise in material usage. We’re also working with our vendors to supply us with the highest quality products with the least amount of waste in packaging by utilizing tools like returnable shipping solutions. Overall, it’s an exciting new part of our process and it’s one more reason why Excel home owners should feel good about their new purchase.

Taking a cue from current trends, the architects predicted that most future homes will be modular because modular construction is more efficient and uses fewer resources. The edible part comes in the form of a hydroponic skin attached to the front of the home, on which a variety of vegetables and herbs can be grown and harvested for consumption by the family. The thinking is especially relevant in urban areas, where a traditional ground garden isn’t always possible.

Even though it may seem far fetched now, we love this kind of environmentally friendly thinking. Modular homes have long been the leaders in green construction by using fewer materials, fewer resources and being generally more energy efficient. Hopefully, in the near future, we’ll all be opening up our bedroom window to pick some lettuce for the dinner salad!

The stimulus, called the Sunshine Program (more info here), will provide $100 million in funds, which will be used to offer rebates of up to 35 percent of the cost of installing a residential or small business solar power system.

That also means the creation of lots of jobs for solar contractors throughout the state, which makes the Sunshine Program a win-win for everyone involved.