Roanoke's Green House

Somewhere in the Gainsboro community of Roanoke, there's a cradle-to-cradle house. What the heck does that mean? Well, for starters, it's a modular design that minimizes or eliminates construction waste and adapts natural energy systems such as gray water treatment. The metal roof is coated to maintain comfortable interior temperatures, recycled pickle barrels will catch rainwater for irrigation, and low-flush toilets and energy-efficient appliances are part of the package. The decision to build the home in Roanoke City resulted from the designers' desire to associate sustainability with affordability and tradition.