KnoxvilleNewsSentinel reports that the “New Norris House,” was built by the University of Tennessee and Clayton Homes. Built by UT architecture students and Clayton Homes in Norris TN, the model home is a living laboratory for sustainable building. Graduate students will measure energy and water use by Mary Leverance and Ken McCown as the couple lives in the home. The data will be used to evaluate how effective the technology is at reducing costs and consumption. Because of an airy and open design, the 750-square-foot bungalow feels bigger than its footprint. With white walls and rich wood floors made of sustainable materials, efficient appliances, solar panels to heat water and a rain water collection system, the home is geo friendly.  It is on track to achieve a LEED platinum certificate.

(Photo credit: KnoxvilleNewsSentinel)