Published: April 01. 2010 2:00AM

By Kim Hassold
EDITOR IN CHIEF

Seventeen years in an older home in one of Greenville's most historic neighborhoods left Diane and Kevin Lathan with lots of great memories and a desire to try a more environmentally efficient way of living.

“We looked around a lot,” says Diane, “but knew we didn't want to be too far from downtown. This house was originally part of a tour of homes when we bought it in 2007. We moved in 2008 and have seen a big difference in electric and gas bills, not to mention how convenient and quiet it is here.”

After changing interior paint colors and “immediately ripping out the kitchen” the couple settled into their new home with beautiful views and a wrap around porch perfect for friends and family. Still, they say it is features like the recycled wood content in all ceiling and accent moldings, a full site in-ground sprinkler system featuring a water sensor that automatically turns off sprinklers when it's raining, and a tankless water heater that really won their hearts.

“The efficiency and thought put into making this home environmentally friendly has made a huge change in how we live,” says Diane. The house is more ‘us' and we love everything about being here.”