2. Bamboo bunkie Small bamboo houses come in handy, especially for a few people, and the bamboo bunkie is one of them. This design is compact, low-cost, and ideal for weekend getaways. Its simple ...

She is the author of “ Kennedy Green House: Designing an Eco-Healthy Home from the Foundation to the Furniture,†(Greenleaf Book Group Press, $30).

To build their eco-friendly house, she used almost 100 percent recycled wood and devised a system of screens, fans, and skylights to minimize the use of heat and air-conditioning. TOUR THE ENTIRE HOME ...

A truly green house plan goes far beyond just selecting eco-conscious materials. Instead, it represents a comprehensive approach—one that blends sustainable sourcing with energy-efficient design.

These plans focus on designing homes that are both environmentally responsible and aesthetically pleasing, incorporating smart layouts, eco-friendly materials, and energy-efficient systems.