Reprinted with permission from EnviroCitizen

February 20, 2010 -- Finding a green home is getting to be easier as more people are becoming aware of the benfits of green living for their health as well as for the Earth. There are a few things to look for and ask when you are in the market for a green home.

 
October 8, 2009 (El Cajon)– Cali Bamboo, a premier manufacturer of green building materials made entirely from bamboo for residential and commercial projects, has announced its partnership with the San Diego Habitat for Humanity. The company will provide $15,000 worth of flooring and fencing materials as well as volunteer employees to help build the final Jimmie Johnson Foundation house in El Cajon as well as other area homes.

By Miriam Raftery

November 1, 2008 (Del Cerro) — “Clients will ask, `How can we go green and still make it beautiful?  That’s really the trick,” observes designer Rick Fahmie of Kitchen Expo.

Fahmie designed a green kitchen in his own Del Cerro home, using utilizing natural and eco-friendly materials as well as maximizing energy efficiency.

ASID Kitchen and Bath Tour Oct. 25 Features “Green” Kitchen on Mt. Helix

By Miriam Raftery

Recycled glass adds sparkle to natural slate backsplash

October 11, 2008 (Mt. Helix) - A Mount Helix kitchen/great room featuring natural materials, solar screens and and energy-efficient features is among 11 kitchens featured on the 2008 Fall Kitchen Tour on October 25th.  Sponsored by the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) San Diego chapter, this year’s tour features remodeled kitchens ranging from modest tract homes to lavish estates—including several homes in eastern areas of San Diego County. 

Eco-friendly EAST COUNTY homes

By Miriam Raftery

After twice having to evacuate during wildfires, Keith and Danya Jolley decided to build a new, fire-safe and energy efficient “green” home on their Jamul property.   The home was featured on last year’s GreenBuilt Homes Tour. 

One year later, the Jolleys remain thrilled with their new home. “The house turned out better than we imagined, and the savings have been a big boost,” Danya Jolley told East County Magazine.  “Our new house is roughly twice the size of our old house that was on the same lot, same location, and so far our electric bills are about $70 a month cheaper.”  She added, “We have not had to use our air conditioner at all this year.”  Indoor temperatures have not exceeded 77 degrees, despite outdoor temperatures in the mid-90s .