VISION House® presents green living ideas in an edu-taining manner that empowers guests with the knowledge that a sustainable future is possible. The exhibit showcases a wide spectrum of environmentally appropriate products and options and provides homeowners with real solutions for contemporary green living.

As AIBD received a pre-opening tour this week, GBM CEO, Sara Gutterman, reminded everyone, “Sustainable living is about taking personal responsibility,” The exhibit illustrates how we can all provide our families with necessities like sustenance, and shelter, as well as comfort and convenience, while simultaneously preserving and protecting the environment.

“This is an interesting process.” said Ron Jones, the Green Builder and President of GBM, “The challenge is to be aspirational and totally achievable.” Industry professionals might feel much of the technology shown has already been achieved but many of the millions of visitors during the home’s three year life will be exposed to the home’s products and methods for the first time. The exhibit’s well designed and attractive decor will be the hook and once in the door the script crafted by GBM and Disney will drive home the message. If it doesn’t, an interactive kiosk at the exit of the exhibit will provide for access to additional information and resources.

As we walked through the home, we explored the major themes of green building, such as whole-home automation; energy generation and efficiency; water conservation; indoor environment quality; and high-performance materials and durability. Along the way, we also encountered intelligent products and advanced technologies, such as:

• High efficiency heating and cooling systems and controls and innovative whole-home automation system and door hardware by Ingersoll Rand
• Electronic vehicle charging station by SIEMENS
• Chevy Volt electric vehicle by GM
• Photovoltaic solar panels from Hanwha Solar
• Durable and environmentally friendly exterior systems, including smog-eating tile roofs, cultured stone, bricks, permeable pavers, and trim by Boral
• Ventilation solutions to improve indoor air quality by Panasonic
• Energy efficient windows and doors from Pella
• High performance glass products by Schott
• Fire sprinkler information from the National Fire Protection Association
• Sustainable hardwood flooring and cabinets from Armstrong World Industries
• Water-conserving fixtures, faucets, shower heads, and home standby generators by KOHLER
• ENERGY STAR certified home appliances by Bosch
• LED lighting solutions by SYLVANIA