Melanie and her husband, Lance Davis, AIA, LEED AP purchased this home in 2001.  Since that time, it has been a testing ground to explore the sustainable practices they advocate for in their professional lives.  The front yard faces West and illustrates the use of landscaping in sustainable design.  Trees were planted to assist in blocking the harsh western sun.  The Weeping Willow sits in the middle of a raingarden that provides needed water to keep it healthy.  The water from the front half of the roof drains into this raingarden via downspout extensions underground.  Regional stone was used to replace and expand the entrance walk.  At the end of the driveway, a carport displays the only ‘green roof’ in the community, further exemplifying storm water management practices.  The upstairs bathroom renovation utilizes dual flush toilet technology and the sink is an original double-dish board cast iron kitchen sink on metal base from a former kitchen renovation.

View the blog for raingarden process photos here.