5 Eco-Friendly Ideas for Your Next Remodel or New Build
We’ve always believed that the best homes are designed with care, built with intention, and made to last. At KNACK, that’s the heart of everything we do: creating spaces and products that reflect your values, support the way you live, and stand strong for years to come.
That mindset naturally leads us to make choices that are more sustainable. Not because we set out to be the most eco-certified builder on the block, but because doing things right the first time—using durable materials, planning ahead, reducing waste—just makes sense. Especially here in the Midwest, where seasons change fast and homes have to work hard.
So in honor of Earth Day, we wanted to highlight a few of the ways that approach overlaps with eco-friendly building. These are practical, design-forward tips you can use in your next remodel or new build—rooted in what we actually do at KNACK. No fluff, no pressure. Just thoughtful ideas to help you build smarter, live well, and create something that lasts.
1. Upgrade Your Windows for Comfort and Conservation
Let’s start with something people don’t always see as eco-friendly: windows. Drafty, outdated windows are one of the biggest energy drains in a home. They leak warm air in the winter, cool air in the summer, and they force your HVAC system to work overtime, which isn’t great for your wallet or the planet.
That’s why, at KNACK, we install Andersen Windows in our projects. From the way they’re manufactured to how they insulate your home, they’re high-performance, Energy Star certified, and designed with sustainability in mind. This single upgrade can drastically improve your home’s energy efficiency, reduce your carbon footprint, and make your spaces noticeably more comfortable year-round.
2. Insulate Like You Mean It (Yes, It Really Matters)
We know insulation isn’t glamorous. You don’t pin insulation photos on Pinterest. But it might just be the most important eco-upgrade you’ll never see. In Nebraska’s ever-changing seasons, we’ve found that closed cell spray foam insulation makes a huge difference: not just in energy savings, but in comfort and air quality.
Spray foam creates a tight seal that prevents drafts, moisture, and air leakage, making it far more efficient than traditional fiberglass. It also adds structural strength and can extend the lifespan of your home by preventing mold and water issues. Think of it like giving your home a cozy, energy-efficient jacket that works 24/7.
3. Build with Materials That Don’t Need a “Do-Over”
Because we’re all about longevity at KNACK it only makes sense that we choose materials that last. That’s not just a design choice, it’s a sustainability strategy. Every time you replace cheap, failing materials, you’re contributing to landfill waste and burning through resources (not to mention your own budget).
Instead, we focus on using durable, low-maintenance materials, from concrete sinks and timeless furniture that hold up to daily use, to solid wood cabinetry and exterior siding that can take a beating and still look beautiful. We don’t do throwaway finishes. We build pieces and places meant to stand the test of time, and that’s one of the greenest choices you can make.
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4. Design for the Life You Want (And the Habits You’re Building)
Sustainability isn’t just about what you build, it’s how you build for the way you live. A home that encourages low-impact living makes it easier to make good choices without even thinking about it.
That’s why we love working with clients to design spaces that support sustainable habits: a designated spot for recycling and composting, a mudroom that helps keep toxins and dirt out of your living spaces, or a walk-in pantry that makes bulk food storage easy and reduces packaging waste. We’ve even included garage storage for bikes and garden tools to support low-impact living, and built-in zones for air-drying laundry.
And when it comes to remodels or custom homes, we always look for ways to include flex spaces, or rooms that can evolve with you, instead of needing to be torn out and rebuilt down the road. That’s sustainability, too: designing something once and doing it well.
As a bonus, multi-use spaces are also becoming more popular! Check out this blog post all about the latest 2025 Home Trends to learn more!
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5. Plan Ahead for a Greener Future
Not every eco-friendly choice needs to be made today. Sometimes, it’s about laying the groundwork for smarter living down the line. That might mean pre-wiring a home for solar, even if you’re not ready to install panels just yet. Or including a conduit in the garage for future EV charging, just in case your next car plugs in.
We also build in smart home systems when it makes sense, like thermostats and lighting that learn your habits, reduce energy use, and help you manage your consumption without sacrificing comfort. It’s all about giving your home the tools to grow with you, and making sure sustainability isn’t an afterthought.
So, What’s the Greenest Thing You Can Build?
A home that’s designed to last. One that works smarter, lives better, and reflects the way you want to move through the world. At KNACK, we may not hang our hat on being the most eco-everything builder out there, but we do believe in thoughtful, lasting design, and that sustainability is a natural byproduct of doing things right the first time.
This Earth Day, we hope you feel inspired to think differently about your next project. Whether you’re building new, remodeling a room, or just daydreaming for now, the choices you make matter. And we’d love to help you make them, well.
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Whether you’re planning a remodel, starting fresh with a new build, or just exploring ideas, our team is here to help you design smarter, build intentionally, and live well for today and for tomorrow.
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At KNACK., we’re not just creating spaces or products – we’re building legacies. With roots in three generations of design and construction, we blend heritage and refined skills with innovation to create homes and custom pieces that tell a story.
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