Written by a world expert in the field, 'Innovative Homes' offers information on contemporary design concepts and illustrates them with examples of truly outstanding designs. Current modes of dwelling design are facing challenges of both philosophy and form. Approaches that have prevailed in past decades no longer sustain new demands and require innovative rethinking. The need for a new outlook is propelled by fundamental changes to the environment, economy, and society. Design for passive solar gain, solar-powered homes, minimising a dwelling's physical footprint, Net-Zero residences, and preserving a site's natural assets are some of the strategies that the architects and builders featured in this book are integrating into their thought processes and design practices.

Housing is rapidly having to adapt to the global changes of the twenty first century. These include the transformation of the family and the rise of the non-traditional household, increases in construction costs, and concerns over climate change and the depletion of natural resources. Designing residential environments that address these issues is an urgent priority. This book examines the latest residential design trends that have arisen in response to these challenges. Divided into four broad areas, tightly focused thematic chapters look at twenty discrete topics, such as live/work; adaptable housing; prefabrication; water efficiency; green roofs; innovative landscaping. Each chapter includes an essay which lays out principles, methods and practices. Using text, drawings and photos from a variety of contemporary international practices, the book demonstrates how these ideas can be applied by architects. It offers a comprehensive collection of strategies and examples that will inspire a much needed housing revolution.