SUSTAINABILITY

Sustainability in building is now widely recognized as a valuable asset, and for good reason.  Here are some of the advantages:

ENERGY EFFICIENCY

The use of passive solar heating and cooling is one of the most effective means of saving energy: using south facing windows, shading at the west and east exposures to minimize heat gain, and using thermal mass at the exterior walls. Other examples are using Low-E and dual paned glass, LED light fixtures, Energy Star appliances, and light-colored roofs. When equipped with solar panels, radiant floor heating, and a gray-water system, a house can be completely off the grid and self-reliant.

HEALTHY LIVING

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and formaldehyde, which are known to be carcinogenic, are found in many paints and adhesives—but there are clean alternatives. Toxic-free environments alleviate many health problems such as asthma, especially in young children whose immune systems are still developing. Designing with natural heating and cooling principles and without forced-air units or mechanical ducted systems also greatly improves the health of the living space.

CONSERVATION OF NATURAL RESOURCES

Using wood from managed forests (Forest Stewardship Certified) and specifying recycled products helps preserve ecosystems and minimize waste. Another strategy is the use of prefabricated panel systems in lieu of stick-built construction. SIPs (Structural Insulated Panels) are manufactured wall panels in a factory. They reduce waste, maximize energy efficiency, increase durability, and reduce construction time. Therefore, the project is more economical, sustainable, and much faster to construct.

DURABILITY

We value the durability of materials and construction methods so that structures can endure for many years to come. This practice requires less maintenance for the house and property. For example, the use of drought-tolerant native plants in landscaping reduces or eliminates watering. 

SMALLER STRUCTURES

Reducing the square footage of buildings, especially homes, is one of the most effective ways of reducing energy and costs. Construction waste is reduced and the use of natural resources is minimized. Best of all, you save money on heating and cooling your home with minimal square footage. Living smaller is a growing trend, especially in the tiny house movement. Check out the portfolio pages for more information on our tiny houses.

LOCAL RESOURCES

When materials and labor are sourced locally, the carbon footprint is minimized by reducing transport and shipping. More importantly, jobs are kept in the community and the local economy is supported.

INTERESTED IN A CONSULTATION?

 

LESS IS MORE

We want to encourage others to think big by living smaller.

The Company We Keep

 

CONTACT

SOL HAUS Design
PO Box 384
Ojai, CA 93024
hello@solhausdesign.com

Sol Haus Design is committed to beautiful, human-centered design where quality of living is accessible to all.

2023 SOL HAUS DESIGN | ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

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