green materials + systems
With all projects we work on, we use sustainable principles when designing, including:
thoughtful design (designing to use less)
material efficiency (materials that are renewable and recyclable)
energy conservation (with the goal of achieving net-zero)
water efficiency (reducing water consumption and recycling water for irrigation)
healthy spaces (materials that are low and no-VOCs and incorporating air filtration systems).
systems built (utilizing technology to build in a smarter, more efficient way that reduces waste and time while increasing predictability)
green certifications
We design homes, communities and resorts to achieve a variety of green rating certifications including:
LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design which is the certification by the US Green Building Council)
Build it Green (for projects in California)
NAHB Green Building Standard (certified by the National Association of Home Builders)
Energy Star
Your local jurisdiction green rating program
We will work with you to help choose the best rating system for your project and the exact rating level will be determined based on your project goals. Part of the rating level is also based on the site design.
There are a variety of sustainable materials, methods and system options available for your home.
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- Off-site construction reduces waste 50% to 75% through precision cutting and storage capacity.
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- Site Design for optimal performance with solar and climate conditions.
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- Siding material options that are long-lasting, low-maintenance and beautiful.
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- South and West facing opening have sun shading trellises, louvers or sliding wood sunshades that allow winter sun, but not unwanted summer heat gain.
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- Accordion and sliding glass walls let the outdoors in and blur the boundary between the interior and exterior.
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- Outdoor rooms are designed to extend the use of space, increasing the size of the home but with less cost and heating/cooling.
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- The use of high windows washes the ceilings with natural light and allows the hot air to rise and leave the space.
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- Engineered wood construction creates a strong, solid home while using less embodied energy and has higher thermal performance than steel and is a renewable resource.
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- Soy-based spray in foam insulation not only creates a super efficient building envelope, but also reduces air, moisture and mold and exceeds the American Lung Association criteria for a healthy home.
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- Smart heating and cooling systems used for efficiency and comfort.
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- Low-e dual and triple pane glass windows and doors available.
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- Skylights are used to bring in light while maintaining privacy. Venting skylights are also an option for helping to keep the space naturally cool.
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- Alternative energy systems are designed to be integral to the home including PV solar panels and films.
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- Green roof systems help reduce storm water run-off, increase insulative properties, help offset CO2 emissions, visually nestle the home in the landscape and offer on-site food production possibilities.
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- Energy and Water monitors provide real time information on usage and production.
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- Home automation systems available for helping to reduce energy needs through shading and venting as well as overall lighting controls.
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- Many Sustainably-harvested woods and natural stone flooring options are available.
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- Sustainably-harvested wood cabinets are available in a variety of species and finishes.
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- Countertops such as Ceasarstone, Ecotop and concrete with fly ash are available.
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- fsc-certified woods
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- sliding panels and countertops using recycled materials
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- Many tile options including ones from recycled glass and recycled porcelain
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- materials with longevity that are low-maintenance
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- LED and CFL lighting systems for reduced energy costs and less maintenance
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- Energy Star appliances
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- Low flow showerheads, faucets with aerators and dual flush toilets are available
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- alcohol and gas fireplaces available for clean burning
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- low and no-VOC paints and finishes
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- garages designed for future flexibility as additional living space
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- Rain water and gray water collection systems can be incorporated to greatly reduce water usage and costs.
Also, through the use of off-site modular technology, there is a dramatic reduction in construction waste due to precision cutting and storage capacity, there is significantly less noise, dust and damage to the building site, landscape and neighborhood, and there is overall less oil and transportation due to less construction time and the fact that there is typically less distance between workers and the factory than between contractors/subs and a construction site.
- Outdoor rooms are designed to extend the use of space, increasing the size of the home but with less cost and heating/cooling.
I was wondering what the material was featured in the middle of image 4. Is this the same exterior material used on this house:
http://michellekaufmann.com/2012/01/custom-northern-california-home/
I love the look!
Thanks!