Pretty Good House: A Common-Sense Approach To Energy-Efficient Building

The Pretty Good House is a concept developed by architects and builders in Portland, Maine, as an alternative to complicated and restrictive green-building certification programs. It is a small, simple, durable, well-designed house that uses wood and plant-derived products, includes photovoltaic panels, is insulated and air-sealed, and is affordable, healthy, responsible, and resilient.

Format: Hardback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 07 May 2022
Publisher: Taunton Press Inc

Frustrated with the complex and restrictive nature of green-building certification programs and the lack of enforcement of building codes, a group of architects and builders in Portland, Maine, sought a solution. They wondered what should be included in a house that not only benefits its inhabitants but also aligns with environmental and financial sustainability. In essence, a Pretty Good House is a dwelling that is as compact as possible, reminiscent of The Not So Big House concept; it is straightforward, durable, and well-designed; it utilizes wood and plant-derived products for construction; it incorporates photovoltaic panels or is PV-ready; it is adequately insulated and air-sealed to minimize heating and cooling systems; and, above all, it is affordable, healthy, responsible, and resilient.

The concept of a Pretty Good House emerged as a response to the desire for a more holistic and practical approach to home design. The team recognized that traditional building practices often prioritized aesthetics over functionality and sustainability. They sought to create a dwelling that not only meets the needs of its inhabitants but also contributes to the well-being of the planet.

One of the key principles of a Pretty Good House is its compactness. By minimizing the physical size of the dwelling, the team aimed to reduce the environmental footprint associated with construction and energy consumption. This approach aligns with the concept of small living, which has gained popularity in recent years as a way to reduce material consumption, lower energy bills, and promote a more sustainable lifestyle.

The simplicity and durability of a Pretty Good House are also emphasized. The design incorporates straightforward, functional elements that are easy to maintain and repair. This approach ensures that the house remains functional and valuable for generations to come, reducing the need for frequent renovations and replacements.

In terms of construction materials, the Pretty Good House relies on wood and plant-derived products. These materials are renewable, biodegradable, and have a lower environmental impact compared to traditional building materials such as concrete and steel. By using locally sourced and sustainable materials, the house not only supports local economies but also contributes to the overall sustainability of the built environment.

Photovoltaic panels or the readiness to incorporate photovoltaic panels are another key feature of a Pretty Good House. These panels generate electricity from sunlight, reducing the reliance on traditional energy sources and lowering carbon emissions. By incorporating PV-ready features, the house becomes self-sufficient in terms of energy production, allowing its inhabitants to reduce their energy bills and their environmental footprint.

Insulation and air sealing are essential components of a Pretty Good House to enhance energy efficiency and reduce heating and cooling costs. Proper insulation and air sealing prevent heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer, ensuring a comfortable indoor environment year-round. This approach not only saves energy but also reduces the environmental impact of heating and cooling systems, which are significant contributors to greenhouse gas emissions.

Affordability, health, responsibility, and resilience are other key aspects of a Pretty Good House. The team aimed to create a dwelling that is accessible to a wide range of people, regardless of their income or financial status. By incorporating affordable design principles and sustainable building practices, the house promotes healthy living conditions and reduces the environmental impact associated with housing.

Resilience is also an important consideration in the design of a Pretty Good House. The house should be able to withstand natural disasters, such as hurricanes, floods, and earthquakes, while also providing a safe and secure environment for its inhabitants. By incorporating resilient design principles, the house can adapt to changing environmental conditions and maintain its functionality even in the face of adversity.

In conclusion, the concept of a Pretty Good House represents a transformative approach to home design. By focusing on compactness, simplicity, durability, sustainability, affordability, health, responsibility, and resilience, the team seeks to create a dwelling that not only benefits its inhabitants but also contributes to the well-being of the planet. The Pretty Good House is a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation in the building industry, and it provides a roadmap for creating more sustainable and livable homes in the future.

Dimension: 276 x 216 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781641551656