EcoPrinciple One: Thoughtful Design
In our practice at Michelle Kaufmann Studio, “thoughtful design” means designing to use less, collaborating with the outdoors, using techonology to improve quality while reducing quantity, and designing for longevity, flexibility and a joyful living environment. Homes should be built to human scale, using only what is needed, but remaining open and airy. High ceilings, [...]
EcoPrinciple Two: Efficient Materials
As we help our clients choose materials that are best for their projects, we recommend materials that are renewable and recyclable, as well as materials that are timeless and long-lasting. We use fsc certified woods, reclaimed lumber, tiles and countertops made of recycled content, and look to Cradle-to-Cradle products as beautiful yet resource efficient, low [...]
EcoPrinciple Three: Energy Conservation
High tech. Low impact. Throughout our homes we design to use minimal energy. We design to require less energy through high-performance insulation and mechanical systems, dual and triple pane glass, proper sunshading systems and energy star appliances. We also design for alternative energy systems such as solar and wind to make homes that are Net-Zero [...]
EcoPrinciple Four: Water Efficiency
Water is the Earth’s most precious resource, yet in traditional homes, more than one-quarter of drinking water is used to flush the toilets. Our hmes feature an array of water-efficient technologies and appliances, such as low-flow shower heads, dual flush toilets, rain water catchment systems, gray water systems, and xeriscaping landscaping. We also can implement [...]
EcoPrinciple Five: Healthy Spaces
Healthy homes are happy homes. We seek to create healthy environments by using non-toxic materials, no and low VOC paints, air filtration and purification systems, spray-in foam insulations (which are more effective than fiberglass batting and minimizes mold). A healthy design continues outside the home with water recycling systems to hydrate plants, native plants that [...]
EcoPrinciple Six: Systems Built
Standard construction can be incredibly inefficient and wasteful. However, by utilizing systems-built techniques, we are able to reduce waste by 50 to 75%, while at the same time increasing predictability and shortening the construction schedule and carrying costs.
