If you are thinking of remodeling or redecorating in the near future, you might want to visit the Sunset Green-Built Idea House in Menlo Park. Actually, it is two houses. The front house is finished and fully furnished with eco-friendly floor coverings, wall coverings, cabinets and furniture.

     The second home is unfurnished and more informational, with cut aways, posters, and exhibits to demonstrate and explain the selections and the processes that make these homes special. Structural items include integrated solar panels on the roof, foil protected roof sheathing that reflects up to 95% of the sun's heat in the summer, rafters and floor beams made with recycled or salvaged wood products, flooring and furniture from easily and rapidly regenerating sources (such as bamboo).

     These homes will be part of a new subdivision consisting of approximately 40 homes, all built with eco friendly components and systems. The project is possible through collaborative efforts of Sunset Magazine, members of the Californias Sustainable Building Task Force, and builder Clarum Homes. Peninsula Habitat for Humanity is a Non-Profit partner in the enterprise.

    If you are interested, time is running short. The homes are available for viewing Fri., Sat., and Sunday from now though Jan. 22. For more information please visit

http://www.sunset.com/sunset/marketplace/package/0,20869,1032917~844996,00.html