We've spent the last decade figuring out how to create spaces that don't cost the earth – literally. Here's what we've learned along the way.
Look, we're not gonna pretend every project hits net-zero or wins awards. What matters is making smart choices that actually work for real people living real lives. Over the years, we've learned that sustainability isn't some checkbox exercise – it's about understanding how buildings breathe, how people move through space, and yeah, how utility bills affect families.
We started incorporating passive design strategies back in 2015, mostly because clients were tired of outrageous heating costs. Turns out, orienting a building properly and thinking about sun angles isn't rocket science – it's just good design that somehow got forgotten along the way.
Work with nature instead of against it
Support BC suppliers when it makes sense
Buildings that adapt over decades
No greenwashing, just real numbers
These aren't projections or estimates – this is real data from completed projects
Average energy reduction vs. baseline code
Liters of water saved annually per building
Construction waste diverted from landfills
Green building certifications earned
We've got the paperwork to back up what we do. But honestly? These certifications matter because they hold us accountable to measurable standards, not just good intentions.
Been working with LEED since version 3, now up to v4.1
Completed training in 2018, applied to 7 projects so far
Gold and Platinum level certifications achieved
Here's how sustainability played out in actual builds
Family of four wanted to rebuild their 1960s bungalow. They weren't tree-huggers or anything – just tired of $400 winter gas bills. We designed around solar gain, added serious insulation, and spec'd a heat pump system. Two years in, their annual energy costs are under $300. Yeah, the upfront was about 15% more, but the payback period is looking like 8 years.
Key Strategy: Super-insulated envelope with airtight construction and strategic south-facing glazing
This was a challenge – 1980s office building with single-pane windows and no insulation to speak of. Client wanted to upgrade without gutting everything. We focused on what'd make the biggest impact: new high-performance envelope, LED throughout, and a smart HVAC system that actually responds to occupancy. The building went from a D-rated energy hog to LEED Silver.
Key Strategy: Phased retrofit prioritizing envelope upgrades and smart building systems
Developer wanted something different for a mixed-use project in Mount Pleasant. We pitched mass timber – cross-laminated timber to be specific. Took some convincing with the structural engineers, but it worked out. The carbon footprint compared to concrete and steel? About 40% lower. Plus it went up faster, which saved time and money on the construction schedule.
Key Strategy: Mass timber primary structure with exposed wood interiors and biophilic design elements
How we integrate sustainability from concept to completion
We walk the site at different times of day, check sun angles, prevailing winds, existing vegetation. Sounds basic but you'd be surprised how often this gets skipped.
Run simulations early, not as an afterthought. This tells us where to invest money for actual returns, not just what looks good in renderings.
Balance embodied carbon, durability, and cost. Sometimes the "greenest" material isn't practical. We're honest about trade-offs.
Check back after a year to see if buildings perform as modeled. This feedback loop makes us better for the next project.
No theoretical stuff – this is what we've specified on recent projects
Mineral wool, closed-cell spray foam, and rigid foam boards depending on application. We're seeing R-40 walls become standard in our specs now.
Typical Cost Premium: 8-12%HRV and ERV systems that capture about 85% of heat from exhaust air. Game-changer for tight building envelopes that need controlled ventilation.
Typical Cost Premium: $4-7K installedMix of solar hot water and photovoltaic panels. PV costs have dropped so much that it's almost a no-brainer on south-facing roofs in Vancouver.
Typical Cost Premium: $15-25K systemCistern systems for irrigation and toilet flushing. Vancouver gets enough rain that this actually makes sense, unlike drier climates.
Typical Cost Premium: $8-12K systemReplacing gas furnaces with electric heat pumps. Tech has improved so much they work fine even in cold snaps. BC Hydro rebates help with costs too.
Typical Cost Premium: $8-15K vs gas