Among the most innovative of the home’s green features is the use of insulating concrete forms (ICFs). According to the Insulating Concrete Forms Association’s website, the use of ICFs results in sturdier, quieter, more energy efficient homes. Instead of being made of wood paneling like traditional houses, ICF homes are built with concrete containing two layers of insulation, and are built to withstand the damages of fire, wind and time. The use of ICF should result in lower heating and cooling expenses.

With the help of friends and family, the pair has been transforming the vintage house into a green home. Features of the La Fleur home include PowerZoning air recirculation, a tankless water heater, soy foam insulation, and an exterior rain barrel. Since the home is a partial renovation of an old house, it is ineligible for LEED® certification.