AIA OHIO AFFORDABLE GREEN HOME DESIGN COMPETITION

Introduction:

In an effort to break the poverty cycle, Habitat for Humanity provides simple, decent affordable homes and interest-free mortgages to deserving families.  In these economic times with ever-increasing utility and health insurance costs, the true measures of the affordability of a home are energy efficiency, annual utility costs, and the occupants' health. An energy efficient home can have a great positive effect on a family's finances; especially for the demographic that Habitat for Humanity serves. A healthier, more energy-efficient place to live can provide a family the opportunity to redirect money currently spent on energy expenses to a more productive need.

The goals of the competition are to improve upon the Habitat for Humanity home portfolio in the areas of aesthetic qualities and energy efficiency. It will provide AIA Ohio Committee On The Environment the chance to demonstrate its commitment to social equity and bring increased exposure to the benefits of green building practices.  In addition, the competition creates mentorship opportunities between our younger and more seasoned professionals.