Date:  June 28, 2013  |   Producer: Tiffany Burgess Adams and Rosemary Hallmark  |  

Why They Built Green

“When we moved from upstate New York to Bentonville, we knew we wanted to build a home in the heart of the downtown area. We figured as long as we were building, let’s build it right and do the right thing by creating a sustainable, environmentally friendly home.” —Tom Hoehn, Homeowner

How They Did It

This home is about more than energy savings—it was built to be durable and to allow for resource conservation as well. From the insulated concrete forms in the foundation to its solar water-heating system and close proximity to downtown Bentonville, the entire space, which was built by Stitt Energy systems, was designed with sustainability in mind. Even the front lawn, which features a mix of locally quarried limestone and drought-tolerant plants designed by Landscape Creations by S. Jasan, was created to withstand hot Arkansas summers with minimal watering.

Tips from the Pros

“Reducing your turf area means your lawn and landscaping will require less water. For plants that do require frequent watering, make sure to group them according to the amount of water they need—you’ll conserve water and the plants will thrive.” —Susan Jasan, Landscape Creations by S. Jasan

“The biggest thing with any home—and it’s pretty simple—is to work with qualified people from the start to get the plan right. The homes being built today are better quality and have a lasting long-term sustainability because the thought and time was put into the plan from the start.”  —David Stitt, Stitt Energy Systems, Inc.

What Makes It Green 

Solar water-heating system

Insulated concrete structure forms

Spray foam insulation

Skylights for natural ventilation

South-facing windows to provide year-round natural light

Programmable thermostat

Low-maintenance fiber cement siding

FEMA-approved safe room

Drought-tolerant landscaping