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Name: Needle Point Homes

Type of business: Developer and 'green' builder

Address: 212 B Lenox Ave. Westfield

Telephone: (908) 301-1000

Web site: www.needlepointhomes.com

Founded: 1992

Top officer: President/owner, Steven Needle

How would you describe your business?

"I build custom 'green' homes and commercial properties i.e. offices, apartments, and retail buildings in New Jersey," said Steven Needle, owner/builder of Needle Point Homes.

"Some of the outstanding energy efficient features of buildings with energy efficient features include Energy Star appliances and HVAC systems; water efficient plumbing fixtures and faucets; resource efficiency through the use of energy efficient windows, caulking and insulation and electronic air cleaners and timer controlled exhaust fans for enhanced indoor environment quality.

"We also help reduce the global impact of building a home by utilizing low VOC paints, incorporating a homeowner recycling area, and limiting construction waste by recycling."

What makes your business special?

"I am the first builder in the state of New Jersey to have houses certified 'green' through the National Association of Home Builders NAHB Green Building Program. Currently I have four homes certified through the NAHB and N.J. Clean Energy program."

What goals do you have for the business?

"To be a leader in innovative building using green [technology] and energy efficient practices."

How has your business changed?

"I have been a developer and builder for last 18 years and it's only in the past few years since I bought my first hybrid car in 2001, that I began really rethinking the way to build."

What was your most important deal?

"Every building I build is my most important deal. But I am very proud of the homes receiving green certification. They are more than energy efficient. The are inviting and dramatic Colonial-style homes with a front porch, four bedrooms, unfinished attic three and a half bathrooms, and spacious living room and dining room, family room with fireplace, and a rear patio."

What changes do you expect in your business in the next 10 years?

"That green will be the next red, white, and blue of this country. There will be more homes built green with energy efficient features and installation of Energy Star appliances and HVAC systems."

What is the most important thing you've learned in your business?

"I believe it is everyone's responsibility to build homes that are green, not only to lessen our adverse impact on the environment, but also to provide hone owners with benefits of energy efficiency savings."

What advice would you give to someone considering your line of work?

"Learn the latest methods and materials in building by going to building conventions, and go green and energy efficient in what you build."

Is there anything else you would rather be doing?

"No. This is an exciting time in building."