When a major power blackout sweeps across northeastern United States and parts of southern Canada, and when a deadly heat wave strains power sources throughout Europe, we realize just how dependent we are on electricity. What can architects do?

Glenn Murcutt, a Pritzker Prize-winning architect from Australia, has cool solutions to the energy crunch. By paying close attention to the movement of the sun, moon, and seasons, Murcutt creates simple, energy-efficient homes that harmonize with the environment. For example, his Marie Short House has adjustable louvers that control the flow of air and keep the rooms cool during the day and warm at night. Murcutt's Magney House has a long low roof and large windows that capitalize on natural sunlight. And, Glenn Murcutt's Marika-Alderton House uses pivoting tubes along the roof to expel hot air. Vertical fins direct cooling breezes into the living spaces.

The beauty of Glenn Murcutt's designs is that they are so economical. Even on a budget, you can apply his ideas to your own building projects. Here's how to build your house the Glenn Murcutt way.