The building designs borrow from Tibetan, Chinese, and Japanese traditions and the eastern influences are evident in things like the rafters curving to create a flowing roof edge. Materials such as the alder used for the trim, stair rails and doors were selected for warmth, grace and simplicity.  All building systems are carefully planned to minimize energy use including very high levels of insulation, thermal solar panels for water heating, photovoltaic panels for electricity, and electronically ballasted fluorescent lighting throughout.