Shades of Green

What Are “Shades of Green”?
The “shade” refers to the level of efficiency, health, and sustainability in your home. Factors we consider for example, with materials, include:
• Is the material non-toxic?
• Is it recyclable or reusable?
• How much energy is required to produce, use, and eventually remove it?
• How far is it shipped?
• Does it harm ecosystems or rely on endangered resources?
• Does it contribute positively to health and comfort?
________________________________________
Light Green Homes
Our baseline for responsible design—homes that gently surpass code requirements.
Features include:
• Smart framing (less lumber, better insulation, lower costs)
• Well-insulated, air-sealed envelope (some foam insulation may be used)
• Standard concrete and steel use
• Durable, low-maintenance materials
• Healthy, natural indoor finishes (no PVC or toxic off-gassing)
• Triple-pane windows (American/uPVC acceptable)
• Mostly LED lighting
• Energy Star appliances
• High-efficiency HVAC (electric heat pumps or efficient natural gas)
• ERV system (Energy Recovery Ventilator)
• Solar encouraged
Many clients don’t even realize they’ve built a “green” home—they just think it’s a better-built home.
________________________________________
Medium Green Homes
Everything in Light Green, plus:
• Thicker walls (9–12") for higher insulation levels
• More advanced air sealing (1.0–1.5 ACH @50pa)
• Higher ratio of plant-based insulation, less foam
• Reduced concrete and steel usage
• “No Red List” materials (for planet and occupant health)
• European or equivalent high-performance triple-pane windows
• All LED lighting
• Heat pump dryers and induction stoves encouraged
• All-electric HVAC systems highly encouraged
• ERVs required
• Net Zero/Zero Energy Ready as a baseline
• Built-in recycling, composting, and water re-use encouraged
________________________________________
Dark Green Homes
Everything in Medium Green, plus:
• Super-insulated envelope, far beyond code
• Advanced air sealing (<0.6 ACH @50pa)
• Minimal to no concrete or steel
• 100% plant-based insulation and smart barriers
• Fully electric—no fossil fuels on-site
• PV solar with battery backup
• Integrated water collection systems
• Smart home automation for shading and energy use
• Designed to integrate with gardens, greenhouses, and composting
________________________________________
Off-the-Grid Green Homes
The ultimate level of independence and sustainability.
Features include:
• 100% off-grid (no utility connection for power, water, or sewer)
• Passive solar orientation
• Ultra-insulated envelope
• Renewable heating (wood or pellet stoves)
• Solar PV and/or solar hot water systems
• ERV or minimal HVAC systems
• Water capture, storage, and reuse
• Designed for gardens, food production, and natural living
These homes can thrive in rural, suburban, or urban contexts (when permitted by local code).