David Crutchfield, associate professor in NDSU’s School of Design, Architecture and Art, was recently featured in an article on the Lawn Love website.
The story, “2022’s Best Cities for Self-Sustaining Homes,” was posted on Aug. 25.
Lawn Love looked at 17 factors, including solar potential, friendliness and sustainable lifestyles. The study also considered the number of existing green and LEED-certified homes, as well as laws regarding composting and water use.
Crutchfield was one of four experts from across the country interviewed for the article. He answered several questions, including “What are three common challenges that come with creating a self-sustaining home?”
“First, money: recognizing that upfront costs can be more than they would be for a ‘regular’ home,” Crutchfield said. “Second, systems: understanding the complexities of running and managing unfamiliar self-sustaining systems – especially if the system is electronic, computer or data reliant. Third, behavior: understanding that occupant behavior may need to adapt to living within the new systems. It can require more thinking about the house and interaction with it.”
The study found that the top cities for self-sustaining homes are Los Angeles, San Francisco and San Diego.
Crutchfield earned his associate degree in architecture technology at Southeast Community College, Milford, Nebraska; bachelor’s degree at Kansas State University; and master’s degree in architecture at the University of Texas at Austin.
His professional memberships include the American Institute of Architects, Texas Society of Architects, National Council of Architectural Registration Boards and the U.S. Green Building Council.
As a student-focused, land-grant, research university, we serve our citizens.
