Building Green, Living Better

Sustainability isn't just a checkbox for us—it's literally how we think about every single project that comes through our door

Sustainable Architecture

Why We're All-In on Sustainable Design

Look, I'll be honest—when I started in architecture back in the early 2000s, green building was seen as this niche, expensive thing that only hippies and rich clients cared about. Fast forward to 2025, and it's become clear that designing without sustainability in mind is just...lazy? Irresponsible? Both, really.

Here in Vancouver, we've got some of the most forward-thinking building codes in North America, and honestly? They've pushed us to get better. Every project now starts with the same question: how can we make this building work with the environment instead of against it?

Our approach isn't about slapping solar panels on everything and calling it a day. It's deeper—passive heating strategies, natural ventilation, materials that'll last decades instead of years, and designing spaces that people actually want to be in (which means they won't tear 'em down in 20 years).

Our Impact by the Numbers

Real data from projects we've completed since 2020

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Average % Energy Reduction

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Average % Water Savings

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% Recycled Materials Used

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Tonnes CO2 Offset Annually

Passive Solar

We orient buildings to maximize natural light and heat gain in winter while minimizing it in summer. Sounds simple, but you'd be surprised how often this gets ignored.

Natural Ventilation

Cross-ventilation design means less reliance on AC. In Vancouver's mild climate, this alone can cut cooling costs by 60-70% compared to sealed buildings.

Material Selection

Local sourcing when possible, reclaimed materials when appropriate, and always considering the full lifecycle—from extraction to eventual disposal or reuse.

Rainwater Harvesting

We're in the Pacific Northwest—might as well use all that rain! Systems for irrigation, toilet flushing, and even laundry in some residential projects.

Smart Systems

Energy monitoring, automated shading, and HVAC systems that actually learn from usage patterns. The tech has gotten really good in the past few years.

Green Roofs & Walls

Not just for looks—they provide insulation, reduce stormwater runoff, create habitat, and honestly make urban spaces way more livable.

Our Green Building Process

How we actually implement sustainability from concept to completion

1. Initial Assessment

We start by analyzing the site—sun paths, wind patterns, existing vegetation, soil conditions. I've literally spent hours just standing on empty lots at different times of day to get a feel for how light moves across the space.

2. Goal Setting

Client conversations about what matters most—energy independence? Water conservation? Indoor air quality? Budget constraints? We're realistic about trade-offs and prioritize based on actual impact.

3. Integrated Design

This is where it gets fun—bringing engineers, contractors, and specialists together early. The structural engineer might suggest a beam orientation that improves passive solar. The HVAC consultant might point out a ventilation strategy we hadn't considered.

4. Energy Modeling

Computer simulations that predict actual energy usage. We run dozens of scenarios—what if we add another foot of insulation? What if we change the window glazing? The data tells us what's worth the investment.

5. Material Specification

Detailed selection of every material—checking embodied carbon, VOC levels, durability, maintenance requirements. We maintain a database of vetted suppliers and products that we know perform well.

6. Construction & Verification

Regular site visits to ensure everything's being built as designed. Blower door tests, thermal imaging, commissioning of all systems. Then post-occupancy follow-up to see how the building actually performs—which sometimes leads to adjustments.

Certifications & Affiliations

We walk the walk, not just talk the talk

LEED AP BD+C

Accredited Professional

Passive House

Certified Designer

Living Building

Challenge Ambassador

Canada Green Building

Council Member

Let's Talk About Your Sustainable Project

Whether you're aiming for net-zero or just want to make smarter choices, we'd love to chat about what's possible for your space and budget.

Get in Touch