Working with conventional stick frame construction is still very popular, especially with folks who want do their own building. Bringing high density insulation,weather tight efficient windows and doors, and proper building orientation into the design are just a few ways to "Green" up a traditionally built home. 

Insulated concrete forms (ICF) construction can offer a bullet proof exterior wall system with insulation values exceeding r-50. ICF construction is usually done by a qualified installer.   http://nudura.com/en/NuduraICFPhotoGallery/residentialprojects.aspx

Structural Insulated Panels (SIP) construction is a fast strong and energy efficient roof and wall system that is easy to design with and can provide insulation values of r-50 or greater.  http://www.ibpanels.com/index.php

Radiant floor heat

http://www.infloor.com/floorheating.html

These forms of construction coupled with innovative heating, cooling and lighting provide a full pallet of design possibilities.