Updated 12-28-2011

***NOTICE! MAJOR UPDATE 11-11-11***
It is now easier for you to locate specific project information by clicking on "PROJECTS".

Visit the NEW "PHGBP BLOG" for Low-Cost Tips and Projects and How to Adopt a Sustainable Lifestyle.

Welcome to the PlayHaven Green Building Project website!

My name is Bobbi Walker (the Owner/Designer of Intuitive Design). I have spent the last 30+ years dreaming of the day when I would be able to build an earth-friendly home. When I first started researching the possibility, there was very little available to give me hope that it could ever be accomplished... unless I was willing to do it all myself.

Over the years, hope turned into optimism and optimism has turned into joy. Now, there are:

• architects who design sustainable, net-zero energy houses,
• builders who use energy efficient construction techniques,
• contractors who have networks to build sustainably,
• energy raters who make sure it is energy efficient and works the way it should,
• financial institutions who understand that this is more than a "niche" market,
• renewable energy products that are more affordable to the average homeowner,
• products made from reclaimed and recycled materials,
• and lots and lots of information on the internet (assuming you know what the questions are).

The PlayHaven Green Building Project is the culmination of those dreams. In addition to being our home, it is so very much more than that!

It has always been my intention to make a showcase of products and techniques that the average homeowner could show to their contractor or builder and say "see, that's what I want in my house."

And even better yet, an example that contractors and builders can show to their clients of what kind of energy efficiency and sustainable features can be incorporated into their projects.

And even further still, a place where many options and ways of doing things can be used in a single location to show what choices there are and comparisons can be made.

This all being said, the PlayHaven Green Building Project is available (by appointment) for physical tours; both during renovation/construction and ever after. AND, this website provides virtual tours for anyone interested in what we're doing but who are unable to make the trip to the Kansas City MO (U.S.A.) area.

The "Description" Section details the plans and goals for both the Green Renovation of PlayHaven East and the New Construction of PlayHaven West. It also provides a bit more background information.

Please visit the "Sponsors" page to connect with the businesses who are so graciously working with us; and to learn how to become a part of the project.

"Project List" Section will give you the details and photos of each project.

Check out our "PHGBP Blog" for ongoing tips and projects that you can do for little or no cost. I've started with ways to adopt a sustainable lifestyle and how I got started.

December 28, 2011

PHGBP Blog

So far, so good! I decided to start out talking about how to adopt a sustainable lifestyle... in my humble opinion, of course. I've been able to keep to my once a week promise and don't see any reason for that to change. I am excited to have 'Follower' already and in the first month 85+ views. WOOHOO! (Actually, don't know if that is much or not, but it made me happy.) There will be more references between the blog and this web-site as I get into projects to do (or I have done).

I've also switched comments to publish automatically... I want to encourage everyone to add their experiences so we can all learn from each other.

Thanks to everyone who is visiting (both blog and here)... our stats have been climbing consistently and that helps sponsors to 'get on board'.

South Porch

All the old boards are out and the replacement boards are down and fastened. In the Spring we will clean and seal it. I'm still hoping that I can convince the Synta dealers in the KC area to come out and participate in a demonstration of how to apply the Deck Restore to spread the word about the product (and the project). Cross your fingers for me.

Water Heater Timer

I've added a link to the Intermatic website so you can see all the specs and particulars about the Electric Water Heater Timer that the guys installed when they put in the geothermal system.

November Electric Bill

We received our first electric bill showing a full month of activity since installing the geothermal system. It showed that our usage in November was minimally higher than it was in November of 2010. An average of 6 kw per day more. I'll have to see what the weather conditions were for those 2 months to get an accurate interpretation ... but regardless, I'm happy!

Check out the November Updates at the Previously page or through the Project List.

Sponsors

Please check them out and consider them for your next project!

Check back to find out the progress of our efforts.