Take a look at your options when faced with installing a shear wall panel.
This two-in-one fireplace goes right through a wall (and is also a heater).
Building a Green Community
(video 03:51)
Jeff Wilson hosts a look at the development of Stapleton, Colorado.
Insulated Concrete Forms
(video 01:55)
An alternative for framing houses is to use Insulated Concrete Form walls.