maryereynolds

<p>Diller Scofidio + Renfro, in collaboration with the environmental-design firm Atelier Ten, have imagined a luxurious and sustainable house for the style and eco-conscious set.</p>

<p>Unlike European countries, the U.S. has no government standards for green building. Sustainable design is now commonplace in Europe, while American architects may comply with voluntary "green" standards.</p>

<p>With tax abatement for 5 to 15 years for renovated properties, the City of Richmond, Virginia, loses $14.6 million each year in real estate taxes. Meanwhile, long-time residents are pushed out by high taxes for unrenovated houses they own or rent.</p>

<p>Santiago Calatrava unveils his Chicago Spire -- slated to be the tallest building in the nation -- in three dimensions to a mostly appreciative audience.</p>

<p>Plans for condominiums and senior housing in downtown Pasadena may create traffic and aesthetic problems.</p>