To provide enlightenment on the state of the green building movement in mainstream home building in this country, Residential Design & Build questions Ray Tonjes, chairman of the NAHB’s Green Building Subcommittee, and custom builder from Austin, Texas.

Are homeowners driving the green building movement more than builders, or are builders the driving force?
It’s a combination of the two. In an ideal world, builders react to consumer demand, but I think we’re in a position right now with the energy crisis where builders have an opportunity to get out in front of the need and demand.

Which of the two will drive green building into mainstream acceptance?
Once again, I believe it’s going to be a combination. But the builder will have to be able to offer consumers a much better value for the dollar by incorporating these green building principles into their homes, which ultimately is going to reduce their clients’ monthly costs.

Who can influence mainstream adoption of green building more, builders or architects?