Compact eco-homes are more sustainable in every way: They're a bargain to build, maintain and operate. Some designer solutions include Austin-based architect Pliny Fisk's 'Green Forms' small, recycled material homes where rooms can be added as the homeowner saves money and Tim Maloney of Kentucky-based One Design's ECCO House, which was selected by the Department of Energy for its small footprint.

The Cleveland EcoVillage is working on a project to develop affordable green-built homes on a parcel of land at W. 58th Street and Pear. The goal is to build four single-family homes no larger than 1400 sq. ft with a sales price of $125,000 and to make them highly energy efficient. The Cleveland Green Building Coalition and its Emerging Architects group are collaborating on concepts and designs.