The new Dutch-Colonial farmhouse being constructed off of Holladay Park Road in Gambrills may look like many other homes you'd find in the quiet Maryland suburb. However, this traditional-looking house is anything but underneath the surface, as it aims to earn Emerald status from the National Green Building Certification Program, the highest label offered by the group.

The home, which is nearing completion, was designed to be the centerpiece of the Preserve at Severn Run, a new 72-home community being built by Annapolis based Baldwin Homes. Designated the Maryland Green Designer Show Home by Baldwin, the proceeds from the sale of the house will go to the Hospice of the Chesapeake and Make-A-Wish Foundation of the Mid-Atlantic.

Mike Baldwin, the president of Baldwin Homes, told the Crofton Patch that the land the home is being built upon has been in his family since the 50s. The developer decided to take a green approach to constructing the new community out of consideration for the nearby Severn Run, a tributary to the Severn River, which is the location of many indigenous plant and wildlife.

All homes constructed in the Preserve will be designed around a stormwater conveyance system that will actually encourage the growth of plant life and reduce pollution in nearby waterways.

The property was also designed to help future inhabitants pay close to nothing on energy bills. With cement insulation, unique ductwork within the flooring and a specially designed sloping roof, Baldwin expects the property will set a standard for energy efficient homes nationwide.

Maryland residents inspired by the Green Designer Show Home but who can't afford to move into the $1.2 million property can still do their part by being more environmentally friendly. A home inspection which includes an energy audit can help inhabitants understand what changes they can make to eliminate wastefulness.