Thinking Big - Environmental Benefits

Our designs offer a number of sustainable features. By focusing on efficiently meeting our clients needs and producing a house less than half the size of the national average we are starting with a theoretical model that cuts lifetime greenhouse gas emissions by 50%.  At a base level, our designs start by meeting the stringent Seattle energy code and go from there to net zero, a yet to be realized goal of ours. We have been working with Puget Sound Solar to develop efficient environmental systems for all of our designs. Our notoriously cloudy wet weather here in the Puget Sound produces the most solar energy in the summer months when our electrical demands are the lowest. However, in a theoretical sense, we can bank our surplus energy by feeding into the national electrical grid when the demand of other regions peak and the water in reservoirs are at their lowest levels.  Then we can withdraw electricity during the winter months achieving an overall sustainable model.

Currently under construction we have a 10 unit courtyard development that we are doing in conjunction with Tangent Architects.  The design features 4 star built green construction, green roofs, and rainwater infiltration.  While not to the highest levels of sustainability, this project does strike a balance between sustainable design and affordability in the bleakest of real estate markets.  We particularly proud of the rainwater infiltration system. Despite our boundless enthusiasm for these systems, we to have a hard time conveying the significance of to previous clients. Most people seem to get the benefits of a green roof but miss the fact that if you dump the runoff from the roof into a storm sewer you have achieved very little at great expense.  Fortunately, Seattle Public Utilities has begun a program that will credit groundwater infiltration systems by offsetting the construction costs in specific cases. They recognize that the cost to provide treatment for excess storm runoff is far greater than allowing the water to percolate into the ground.  It is far better for ecology of local water bodies as well.

Our built work has all been in urban infill areas which is inherently sustainable.  Increasing housing options that allow people to live where they work and play will have a positive impact for generations.  We are quite excited about the expansion of Seattle's Backyard Cottage Ordinance. Seattle, like many cites, has updated its zoning code to allow cottage housing and small secondary houses (detached ADU's) on residentially zoned lots.  Seattle and Portland are two cities which allow detached ADU's up to 800 sq. ft. in size.  These cottages provide opportunities for families to say, accommodate an elderly parent or a growing family. They may also provide added rental income. Backyard cottages also enable  increased density and affordable housing stock that helps Cities and regions meet their smart growth objectives. 

Sustainable building does cost less.  Construction cost is directly proportional to the size of the structure. In our theoretical model, this translates into real savings of tens of thousands of dollars in construction cost and hundreds of dollars a year in heating and cooling bills. Our standard plans feature sustainable Ecohaus materials and finishes, which when bundled together in one of our designs are offered at a significant discount.