Years ago, while on a trip to Norway, Dexter and Besty Perkins started thinking about a home that reduces their carbon footprint, produces its own energy and would take inspiration from across the globe.
VIEW A GALLERY OF IMAGES TAKEN BY BETSY PERKINS
Years later, their dream is a reality and their home in Grand Forks fulfills the needs of their family and achieves a level of environmentally friendliness that they were awarded a platinum level award by the L.E.E.D. organization (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design).
(Photo by Betsy Perkins)
Their flooring is made from reclaimed barn wood and the entryway is re-used porcelain. The walls have more insulation than most other homes and will pay for itself in heating/cooling savings in just about three years. Power created by the sun run the home and during the summer months, they create enough to sell back to the power company. 
(Photo by Betsy Perkins)
High efficiency appliances line the kitchen and even an indoor water feature to add humidity to the home are modern conveniences mixed with the everyday needs of a household. 
(Photo by Betsy Perkins)
Dexter and Betsy hope that their labor and research will be of use to neighbors and other folks in our region who are looking to reduce their carbon footprint. Working with architects who specialize in home design with the environment in mind was a great find. Also, teaming with a builder who understood the challenges and importance was important.
(Photo by Betsy Perkins)
The natural prairie grasses out front line the modern looking home and neighbors are slowing down just a bit when they walk by. A house of tomorrow is a good way to describe this Grand Forks home. Hopefully a tomorrow where we prioritize being good stewards of the environment.
(Photo by Betsy Perkins)
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(Amy Iler & JJ Gordon are talk-show hosts at 790 AM KFGO in Fargo-Moorhead. “It Takes 2 with Amy & JJ” can be heard weekdays 11am-2pm. Follow Amy on Twitter @AmyKFGO. Follow JJ on Twitter @JJGodon701.)
