Build Up! is an organization out of Ann Arbor that is organizing the Building a Brighter Michigan Sustainable Design Competition. Students, recent graduates, a board of directors, and sponsors are involved in the development and management of the organization.
Mackinac Island is home to some of the most breathtaking architecture and natural scenery in the world. Uniquely, the use of personal motorized vehicles is prohibited on the Island. Rather, residents and visitors enjoy horse drawn carriage tours, horse drawn taxi service, trail riding, or other modes of transportation: biking, hiking, sailing, boating, kayaking, or simply walking around the Island. For this reason, Mackinac Island some of the cleanest air in the world. With a commitment to preserving the history, nature, and beauty of the Island, Mackinac Island is a prime place to build a sustainable home. For more information about Mackinac Island, visit www.mackinacisland.org
A net zero house is a building with zero net energy consumption and zero carbon emissions annually. Zero energy buildings are autonomous from the energy grid supply - energy can be produced on-site. More at Wikipedia.
The house will primarily be used during the spring-fall when the weather is more acceptable. However, the home should be able to withstand winter conditions and be able to be used during all seasons.