'Ten Shades of Green: Architecture and the Natural World'

by Peter Buchanan

(W.W. Norton, $24.95, 128 pp.)

Using 10 buildings as examples, author Peter Buchanan writes about ways to enliven contemporary architecture while remaining faithful to environmental principles. Through floor plans, sketches, photos and thoughtful text, Buchanan argues that sustainability is good for the planet and for expanding design ideas. The book documents an exhibit of the same name put together by the Architectural League.

'Off the Grid Homes: Case Studies for Sustainable Living'

By Lori Ryker

(Gibbs Smith, $21.95, 128 pp.)

As people are worrying about rising oil prices as well as the environment, some homeowners have chosen to disconnect from their local power supply and turn to alternatives. Architect Lori Ryker looks at homeowners, mostly in the United States, who are using solar power, reusing bath water, putting up wind turbines and using a variety of other techniques to replace municipal utilities and reduce their own environmental impact.

'Green Building

& Remodeling for Dummies'

By Eric Corey Freed

(Wiley, $21.99, 384 pp.)

This book provides a broad overview of issues for consumers interested in taking an environmental approach to building or rehabbing a home. Freed's step-by-step reference looks at everything from choosing a contractor to picking materials and a design that will

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fit the environment; it also debunks some green building myths. It's a good introduction to what to think about before starting a project.

'Cool Green Stuff: A Guide to Finding Great Recycled, Sustainable,

Renewable Objects You Will Love'

By Dave Evans

(Clarkson Potter, $14.95, 256 pp.)

Dozens of quirky products, from coasters made of discarded computer motherboards to solar-cooled caps, bamboo purses to cardboard tables, are shown in beautifully arrayed photos by Australian Dave Evans. Each photo is accompanied by a quick explanation of the materials used and a link to a Web site where the item can be purchased.