US Department of Energy Solar Decathlon is a unique competition that allows talented students and designers to showcase energy efficient solar powered houses. Students from Santa Clara University have designed the Refract House which is all about harnessing light and lightening the carbon footprint we leave behind. The house is built on an area of 800 square feet and is green in every measurable way.

It comes with cutting edge solar thermal and photovoltaic system. The house makes use of natural light so that no energy is wasted on lighting the house. Ambient lighting makes all this easier, and more efficient. There is also a water treatment pool which helps to water the edible plant garden. One could grow vegetables and fruits that are natural and organic.

The house looks quite futuristic yet stays in touch with nature and its beauty. That is perhaps why the design is so cool and awesome. I would love to live in a house like this, but alas, not everyone can be so lucky. If you are lucky enough to stay close to these architects, get one built for yourself and use solar energy!