We've always believed that good architecture shouldn't cost the earth - literally. Our Nordic roots taught us that working WITH nature, not against it, creates spaces that last generations while leaving the lightest footprint possible.
Honestly, we don't see sustainability as some trendy add-on. It's just how we do things around here.
Growing up around Scandinavian design principles, you learn pretty quick that less waste means more beauty. Those long winters teach you to respect every resource and make buildings that actually keep you warm without burning through energy.
Before we even think about fancy tech or solar panels, we nail the basics - orientation, natural ventilation, thermal mass. Get these right and half your work's already done. It's architecture 101, but you'd be surprised how often it gets overlooked.
We're kinda obsessed with using local materials - cuts down on transport emissions and supports BC's economy. Plus there's something special about using Douglas fir that grew just a few hours away. The wood tells its own story.
We design buildings that'll be standing strong in 100 years. That means adaptable spaces, durable materials, and timeless aesthetics. Trends come and go, but good bones last forever - and that's the most sustainable choice you can make.
Paper doesn't build houses, but these certifications help us prove we're doing things right.
Multiple team members hold LEED AP credentials. We've guided 42+ projects through certification from Silver to Platinum.
Certified consultants for Passive House design. It's tough to achieve but the energy savings are honestly ridiculous.
Regional expertise with Built Green BC standards. Makes sense for local projects and clients appreciate the recognition.
The holy grail of green building. We've consulted on 3 LBC projects - it's ambitious but pushes everyone to think differently.
Real numbers from actual projects. No fluff, just results.
Energy Saved Annually
That's enough to power about 1,150 homes for a year. Our passive design strategies and high-performance envelopes really do make a difference.
CO2 Emissions Prevented
Equivalent to taking 1,475 cars off the road. Calculated across all completed projects' first 5 years of operation.
Water Conserved
Through rainwater harvesting, greywater systems, and low-flow fixtures. Vancouver gets enough rain - we might as well use it.
Average Waste Diverted
During construction phases. We're pretty strict about sorting materials and finding second lives for everything possible.
Not just slapping panels on roofs. We design for optimal orientation from day one, integrate battery storage where it makes sense, and ensure the aesthetic doesn't suffer.
BC's ground temperature stays pretty stable year-round. Geoexchange systems cost more upfront but pay for themselves in about 7-10 years. Plus they're dead silent.
Triple-glazed windows, continuous insulation, airtight construction. Sounds boring but it's the difference between a $200 and $80 heating bill every month.
Vancouver gets 1,150mm of rain annually - that's a lot of free water. We design systems for toilet flushing, irrigation, and even laundry in some cases.
FSC-certified wood from BC forests. Wood's got a lower carbon footprint than concrete or steel, and it sequesters carbon too. Win-win.
Old-growth beams from demolished warehouses, reclaimed brick, recycled steel. These materials have character you can't buy new, and they've already paid their environmental dues.
Real projects, real challenges, real results. Here's how we've put theory into practice.
6-unit residential project that hit LEED Platinum without blowing the budget. Geothermal heating, solar hot water, and a shared green roof that's become the neighborhood hangout spot.
12,000 sq ft commercial office that uses 85% less energy than code minimum. The triple-glazed windows cost a fortune but the HVAC system's tiny - saved money in the end.
1912 brick warehouse converted to mixed-use. Kept 80% of original structure, added modern systems without losing the character. Clients were worried about the cost but heritage grants helped a lot.
Sustainability isn't a destination - it's literally how we approach every single project. We're always learning, always pushing ourselves to do better, and honestly always a bit frustrated that the industry doesn't move faster on this stuff.
Team members attend sustainability conferences and training throughout the year. Building science evolves fast.
We host quarterly workshops for homeowners and builders on sustainable