Three sides of the home are covered in glass and 20% of the home can be opened, allowing cross-ventilation.

WSJ: The Do-It-Yourself Desert Retreat

When designed properly, one end of the courtyard can be 15 degrees cooler than the other end because of cross-ventilation.

WSJ: Full Enclosure - WSJ Mansion

It also includes small touches, such as cross-ventilation and computer carrels in the kitchens to allow parents to help children with homework while they are cooking dinner.

WSJ: A Shift in the South Bronx