Florida House builds new mission

SARASOTA — The Florida House, a demonstration project for green construction that received national attention when it was built in Sarasota 20 years ago, is getting a makeover and a new mission.

The first change is the project will be renamed the Florida House Institute, according to a release. Its new three-pronged mission, the release states, is to teach homeowners and entrepreneurs about high-performance standards and affordable retrofit projects; to serve as a public meeting space; and to become a think tank for local and national green building projects.

The makeover side of the project includes installation of paver walkways and patios, which will reduce the amount of stormwater and pollutants that flow into Sarasota Bay, the release states. About 10,000 people visit the Florida House Institute every year. The house, built in 1992, is at 4454 Beneva Road, Sarasota, 34231.