Look, we're not gonna sugarcoat it - the construction industry has been pretty rough on our environment. But here's the thing: we've spent years figuring out how to build spaces that actually give back instead of just taking.
Started back in 2009 when our founder visited a passive house project in Germany. Changed everything, honestly. Came back and realized most buildings in Vancouver were just... well, they were energy hogs.
We've designed over 47 projects with serious environmental credentials since then. Not because it looks good on our website (though it does), but because it's literally the only way forward. Every building we create now operates on the principle that it should use less, waste less, and ideally produce some of its own energy.
These aren't theoretical ideas we read about - this is stuff we implement on every single project. Some clients push back initially (it costs more upfront, yeah), but the payback period is usually around 5-7 years.
We orient buildings to maximize natural light and heat in winter while minimizing it in summer. Sounds simple, but you'd be surprised how many architects ignore this basic principle. Cut heating costs by up to 40% just by positioning windows correctly.
Vancouver gets ridiculous amounts of rain - might as well use it, right? We design systems that capture, filter, and reuse rainwater for irrigation and non-potable needs. One commercial project we did saves about 180,000 liters annually.
We're pretty picky about what goes into our buildings. Reclaimed wood, recycled steel, low-VOC paints, locally sourced stone. Not just for the environmental impact - these materials often have way more character than the factory-fresh alternatives.
Before air conditioning became standard, people actually knew how to design buildings that breathed. We bring back those principles - strategic window placement, thermal chimneys, and operable facades that reduce AC reliance by huge margins.
Living walls and rooftop gardens aren't just Instagram-worthy - they provide insulation, reduce urban heat island effect, manage stormwater, and improve air quality. Plus, they're genuinely beautiful. Win-win all around.
Geothermal heating, solar panels, energy recovery ventilators, LED lighting with daylight sensors. We integrate tech that actually makes sense for the project's context and budget. No gimmicks - just systems that work.
We've put in the hours to get accredited in the frameworks that actually matter. Not the fluffy ones - the certifications that require rigorous testing, ongoing education, and real accountability.
Three of our senior architects hold LEED Accredited Professional status. We've shepherded projects through Gold and Platinum certification processes, and honestly, the LEED framework keeps us sharp.
Completed intensive training in Passive House design principles. This German standard is probably the most rigorous energy efficiency certification out there - and yeah, we're a bit proud of having it.
Members since 2012. This Canadian program focuses on practical, achievable sustainability measures that work in our climate. Less theoretical, more hands-on - which fits our approach perfectly.
Active members of the Canada Green Building Council. We contribute to advancing green building practices across the country, attend conferences, and stay current with emerging standards and tech.
Real buildings with real performance data. No concept renders - these are completed projects that people live and work in every day.
8-story commercial building achieving 72% energy reduction compared to baseline. Integrated solar array generates 45% of building's power needs. Completed 2021, still outperforming projections.
42-unit residential complex with passive house principles. Each unit averages $180/year in heating costs. Green roof manages 80% of stormwater onsite. People actually fight over units when they come available.
Heritage building transformed with modern sustainability. 85% of original materials preserved and integrated with new systems.
First public building in the region to achieve net-zero energy consumption. Living walls cover 40% of exterior surfaces.
Single-family residence with annual heating costs under $200. Triple-glazed windows and superior insulation create incredible comfort.
Let's be real - sustainable design isn't always the easiest path. Initial costs are higher, material sourcing takes longer, and clients sometimes need convincing. We've had projects where the budget was tight and we had to make compromises.
But here's what we've learned over 14 years: the best sustainable design doesn't feel like sacrifice. When done right, green buildings are simply better buildings. They're healthier to occupy, cheaper to run, and honestly more beautiful because they're thoughtfully integrated with their environment.
We don't preach about saving the planet (though that's obviously important). We talk ROI, occupant satisfaction, and future-proofing. Turns out those arguments work pretty well because they're true.
Let's Talk About Your ProjectWe're happy to chat about what's actually feasible for your project vs. what's just marketing hype. No obligation - just honest conversation about what works.