Answer to Question 1
the orientation enabling passive energy use, staggered stud exterior wall, insulated, conditioned-air crawl space, elimination of thermal breaks in exterior walls, operable clerestory windows that allow the possibility of convection cooling, a Water Furnace Envision geothermal unit, rubber wood cabinetry, and student-made concrete countertops.
Answer to Question 2
The program helps families buy and own a house, who ordinarily wouldn't be able to do so.