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?

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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.

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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

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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

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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).