Conventional building materials suck.
Not only do they suck up precious resources, they easily suck up moisture, which, in turn, easily sucks up funds.
They cause rot, harm our ecosystems, and, often, pose health risks we shouldn't have to worry about.
Toxicants like PFAS, VOCs, and formaldehyde, commonplace in conventional materials, are linked to endocrine disruption, certain cancers, allergies, asthma and other respiratory conditions, declining fertility rates, and more. They pollute our air, water, and ecosystems. We intentionally curate materials that are free of harmful substances and healthy to interact with, so the buildings can be enjoyed by people and pets of all ages, worry-free. Clean, fresh indoor air and fewer toxicants in our environment? Yes, please!
It's tiring to wade through greenwashing. Our process will take the earth into account from all angles, with materials and practices that are rooted in evidence, not opinion. We use peer-reviewed literature, quality sources, and building science to inform decisions. Permaculture, rainwater harvesting, solar, carbon sequestration, and whatever environmental technologies or practices best suit the project will be incorporated into site plans. We intend to be friends with the earth.
Taking great care to attend to every detail, especially in areas most vulnerable to damage. Fewer repairs=greater longevity, less construction waste, and decreased environmental impact. We can focus on strategies that consider common mistakes and weak points in building that leave most homes with water damage or excessive heating or cooling bills. Intentional design leaves you with more money in your pocket!
We view the design process as so much more than the structure or aesthetics. It's about using the design process to help heal our ecosystems. That means landscaping, rainwater, people, and planet are all equally considered.
Building sites affect not only the humans who enjoy them, but the wildlife, microbes, and soil within and around them, as well. Often, building sites can even affect ecosystems downstream. We incorporate the wellbeing of all creatures and resources into our decision-making process.
Our aim is to only build on existing sites, to transform them into hubs of climate health, safety, and ease. Every site has a history--We intend to understand that history, from the indigenous peoples who were land stewards, to the elders who freely shared love, affection, and food through the decades, to the animals who call the land home. A site's story informs and forges its fresh chapters.
We love any building that uses healthier practices, but green builds are often __. We believe our buildings should be comforting, serene, earth-friendly, and beautiful, from the colors to the textures to the finishes. No upcycled tires in sight.
We don't do greenwashing. Ever. No weirdness, no B.S. From the lumber to the insulation to the glues, paints, appliances, and finishes, materials are determined based on their lack of harmful toxicants, carbon-sequestering powers, and regenerative potential. Cradle-to-cradle, Greenguard Gold, Red List-Free, and Oeko-Tex are music to our ears! Purchasing, sourcing, and waste plans are thoughtfully crafted and implemented.
Conventional building practices lead to an abundance of waste in landfills, massive amounts of carbon emissions, and depletion of resources. Neighborhoods can lose their spark. People are often in need. Our design approach focuses on how we can leave each site, each neighborhood, each community, healthier, happier, and more empowered. Through community food sharing from thoughtfully-planted permaculture gardens, workshops, and community classes, it is our intention to help build and nurture people, planet, and communities. Sharing trade knowledge and resources helps fortify our culture and create a brighter world.
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