Sustainability
Sustainability in the fields of architecture and interior design can manifest itself in many different ways. We try to approach each project with an open mind about how we can best implement sustainable strategies in a way which reduces the project’s overall carbon footprint, creates a healthy environment for our client’s to live in, and takes advantage of exciting new building technologies and systems.
The Three R’s
REDUCE
While we find ourselves working at a variety of scales, we enjoy working on projects that are well considered in their size and impact on the site. Sometimes this comes to life in a small, modest cabin. Other times this consists of a larger home that has been planned out to use each square foot as efficiently as possible. In either instance, we strive to help clients create long-lasting, legacy homes that will stand the test of time.
Energy consumption often comes up as a strong consideration in many of our projects. Integrating high performance building assemblies with site specific design is key part of our design process. As a team, we have worked on projects where we have implemented such systems as:
Photovoltaic Panels
SIP Wall & Roof Panels
Geothermal Heat Systems
Radiant Heating and Cooling
High Efficiency glazing & wall assemblies
reuse
Working with the existing built environment is often a key way to lessen a project’s impact on the environment. We work with clients to help them consider the life cycle costs of working with an existing structure vs. building something new. This determination is unique for each project and our team can draw on our past experiences to help make a recommendation that makes the most sense for a particular project.
recycle
Whether it is turning a pile of dusty attic boards into an exciting bar feature, reclaiming wood from a local barn for the siding on a new-build, or turning denim jeans into insulation, we enjoy incorporating recycled materials into our projects. Sometimes a material comes into the project before we start the design process through a client suggestion or want. Our team then finds a place to incorporate it. In other instances, we source recycled materials with less embodied energy as a way to lessen a project’s carbon footprint.
Green Building Technologies
Each project has its own unique set of site conditions, design requirements, and budget constraints. We work to determine which systems best fit the goals of a particular project. Our team has experience implementing green building technologies into projects such as:
Cross Laminated Timber Panels & Mass Timber Construction
passive house strategies
Leed certified homes
Rain Water Reclamation