I've been doing research on passive solar and superinsulated homes (this forum has been a great resource) but I think it's time to get some experts involved.  I don't have the time or expertise to design and build myself.  Has anyone used any designers, architects, or builders in the St Louis area?  I've found some lists of companies, but it's hard to make a decision based off a website and some emails.  Has any company been great or horrible?  It seems like most companies with lots of passive solar design experience are in the south-west or west coast: how well does having your house designed by someone 1000+ miles away work out?

About the new home: 2000-2500 sqft, passive solar, superinsulated, probably ICF or ICF basement/SIP aboveground construction.  Radiant flooring, ERV, even geothermal would be great but eventually it comes down to cost (of course).  I don't need to be off-grid or anything, and it seems like once your insulation reduces your HVAC needs by half, it may not be worth it to get the most efficient/expensive HVAC equipment.

thanks for your input,
Greg

Greg,
I firmly believe that any home should be designed to fit its location. Site specific designs take into account all the variable factors of a particular location. Something that is hard to do with 'off the shelf' plans. I always try to visit the job site before starting the design process. That way I can see and feel the traits, both good and bad, of a site.
This can help greatly in deciding where to place the emphasis of my recommendations to my clients. And you are correct in assuming that you probably don't need to incorporate every possible upgrade to get a comfortable and efficient home. I strongly suggest that you start with a structure of ICF/SIPS combination. Then let the site, the plans, and the finances determine the final upgrades included.
Unfortunately, I can't offer any specific recommendations of designers/builders in the St. Louis area to work with. I'm sure someone else will help you there.

Thanks for your advice, Wes.

Try STITT ENERGY SYSTEMS INC.
Web site stittenergy.com .

You can call us if you are interested in a builder

 

MG (Modern Green) Constructors
314-210-9336

 

We will have a 2500SF ICF LEED Home under construction in Kirkwood, MO here in the next couple months.

Thank you

Greg - check out Sage Homes and Belcher Homes.  I visited their green models during the green home tour last weekend.  Stitt Energy has been in the business longer than anyone but they are not local so you need to find a contractor to work with once they have designed your home. 
Good luck.

Rick Moore

USGBC has a meeting at the Planetarium on July 23. I'm sure you can meet people there. We just had a regional conference, not sure if you made it to the convention center.