Back from IBS

The International Builders Show was a fairly somber affair this year.  It was interesting to see that about 50% of everything being showcased was “green,” or “alternative,” or at least more aesthetically pleasing than common building materials.  It seemed that if most of the homes being built today were made from parts sourced from the vendors at this year’s IBS, homes would be generally much more interesting and conscientious than they are.  The mega-developers and home construction companies tend to have a tin-ear for innovation. 

Rarely discussed or thought of, however, are the questions of where to build and whether to build.  This thought was strong in my mind as I ventured into the far reaches of new development in the Las Vegas region where housing projects are vast.  One can instantly feel the difference when in a well-built and well-designed community of homes versus a community that offers little more than shelter from the hot desert air.  But, all of these communities are so far away from any urban center of substance, the negative social and ecological impact of living in them seems to outweigh any qualities inherent to their design.