Cost Effective Passive Solar Design

This is a great article about building a passive solar design home that's very cost effective:
http://www.greenbuildingadvisor.com/blogs/dept/guest-blogs/cost-effective-passive-solar-design

The builder has published some other articles:
http://www.customhomeonline.com/green-building/case-study--modest-sized-house-plan-offers-outsized-performance.aspx
http://www.springtimehomes.com/green_design_science

There's a great set of project photos on Houzz.  I enjoy the simple use of natural materials, wood, and color to create a simple yet modern cottage feel.
http://www.houzz.com/projects/128495/springtime-cottage-at-haw-creek