We invite you to our two open houses this month to learn, see and feel the difference in the new standard of home building, The New Hawaiian Home. Open house dates are set for July 10 and 17, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., at 747 22nd Ave. in Honolulu.

This prototype is a new home designed and built to actively support an environmentally responsible, modern family lifestyle. The construction began Feb. 1, and with the cooperation and voluntary support of more than 90 contractors and vendors, the home was completed in late May.

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The New Hawaiian Home is a joint collaboration of the Building Industry Association of Hawaii (BIA-Hawaii), the Hawaiian Electric Company and the state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism, to take sustainable living to a higher level. The key components of this green home incorporate environmental considerations and resource efficiency into every step of the building and development process to minimize environmental impact.

The key green components of The New Hawaiian Home focus on several elements. Energy-efficient qualities include the roof, windows and insulation to help the building shell keep hot air out and cooler air inside while the Energy Star appliances, renewable energy sources such as photovoltaic electricity and water heating systems decrease overall energy consumption within the home. Water-efficient fixtures and appliances enhance the resource-efficient design decisions in home size, lot orientation and floor plans that also reduce energy consumption.

The indoor environment quality is enhanced with fans and ventilation systems appropriately sized for the home, Low-VOC paints and finishes while the outside environment development preserves trees and vegetation native to the neighborhood.

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Karen Nakamura is executive vice president / CEO of Building Industry Association of Hawaii.