Models of modern construction

For innovation to spread, it doesn’t hurt to have a few concrete examples to show others just what’s possible.

The construction industry is not one to suddenly abandon proven practices, techniques and materials, even if new technologies promise to save money and produce less pollution. But Baton Rouge now has some modern examples that may just inspire more eco-construction.

Among the most prominent and daring is Baton Rouge new “green house.” Although it’s not made of glass, the folks behind it hope it proves just as transparent.

Designed by Remson-Haley-Herpin Architects with aid from LSU’s technology experts and scientists from around the country, the Louisiana House recently opened to the public on the LSU campus. It offers area builders and designers a showroom of solutions for reducing home energy and water use, pollution, waste, and damage from hurricanes, floods, and termites.

Before building a new home or office, Baton Rougeans can tour the building, study its features and attend technology seminars for new green building ideas that could save money and help protect the environment.

More than 250 private donors contributed to the $1.5 million price tag for the 7-acre site at the southwestern edge of the LSU campus. But the figure is deceiving—the house showcases an array of energy-saving ideas ranging from expensive to easily affordable. Cutaway walls and flooring reveal the green guts of the innovative design.

Claudette Reichel is a housing specialist with the LSU AgCenter, the university group that manages the facility. She says the house was built with resource efficiency, durability, air quality, convenience, and affordability in mind.

But those behind Louisiana House do not want it to just be a museum for home gadgetry of the future. They want its green features to enjoy nothing short of wild popularity.

“Our primary target is the homeowner,” Reichel says. “They have to understand the potential of what they can have and demand it for the designers and contractors to come around. We want high performance housing to be the new granite countertop.” louisianahouse.org.