Building For Health

Chronic illness has become one of the greatest health challenges of our time. Nearly 60% of Americans live with at least one chronic condition, and the vast majority of healthcare spending is directed toward managing chronic disease. Increasingly, research points to environmental exposures—especially those found in the places we live, work, and sleep—as significant contributors to inflammation and chronic illness.

A healthy home is more than a place of comfort; it is a foundation for wellness. Just as we pay attention to the food we eat and the water we drink, the quality of our indoor environment plays a critical role in supporting long-term health. Reducing exposure to harmful chemicals, pollutants, allergens, and other environmental stressors can help minimize the body's inflammatory burden.

Drawing on principles widely embraced in functional medicine, this book explores how the home environment can either support or undermine health. You'll learn practical strategies for designing, building, renovating, furnishing, and maintaining a healthier living space—from construction materials and indoor air quality to moisture control, cleaning practices, and everyday household products.

Andrew Pace is a Healthy Home materials expert and the founder of Green Design Center. For decades, he has served as the premier resource for homeowners and contractors seeking the intersection of sustainability and human health.

As the host of the Non-Toxic Environments podcast, Andrew also provides world-class consulting on the materials, methods, and systems required to build truly safe living spaces.

He specializes in the highly technical field of chemical sensitivity and mold-related remediation, including CIRS and MCAS. Whether working directly with consumers or collaborating with architectural teams, Andrew ensures that every design choice prioritizes the health of its inhabitants.

Whether you're building a new home, remodeling an existing one, or simply looking to create a healthier environment for your family, this book provides the knowledge and tools to make informed decisions that support wellness for years to come.