Between global warming and the waning economy, conspicuous consumption is out; frugal, conscientious lifestyles are in. Everyone’s slinging phrases like “renewable energy” and “carbon footprint” around with real enthusiasm—but how can one live responsibly and comfortably in the 21st century?

Let’s be honest: from hybrid cars to solar panels, the choice to minimize our impact on the environment can be inconvenient and expensive. It’s easy for a millionaire to buy special cars and install wind turbines and solar panels, but what about regular Joes who’d like to save the environment—and money on electric, gas, and heating bills, too?

Architect Chris Colby is at the forefront of the movement to provide comfortable, affordable, green housing to Americans of all income levels. His “Concept Z” home is designed to accommodate the needs and the concerns of ecologically—and economically—aware people. He’ll discuss the New Minimalism movement in American design, provide an alternative way of looking at the way we live, and talk about:

• Living large without fossil fuels: attractive design elements and materials that naturally conserve energy.

• Simply executed innovations that could significantly reduce energy consumption—and bills!

• The “Concept Z” home, the future of affordable green housing.

CREDENTIALS: Chris Colby is a LEED accredited professional who is a member of the Associate American Institute of Architects. During his ten-plus years as an architect, he has designed educational facilities, healthcare, community facilities and homes. He is a principal associate at Spire Architecture.

AVAILABILITY: New York metropolitan area, nationwide via telephone
CONTACT: Carol Stevens, (914) 251-1500, ext. 12 (NY); carol@msco.com