We live in an extreme set of climate conditions. Cold winters and warm summers with oftentimes huge, daily fluctuations in those conditions. We further live in a part of the country where wood is plentiful, sustainable and affordable. There is an aesthetic here that relies on materials that reflect our place in the natural landscape. So, how are we doing... are we making that connection to the natural landscape?

Not really, and it is likely to get worse before it gets better... firstly, no developer is looking to lock horns with a national distribution system and the codes that govern what is possible. The drivers of this very large train are a handful of public companies that own most of the developable land and purchase most to the products that this country consumes when it comes to housing materials. The not-very surprising result... cookie cutter development has become the norm.

Obviously, change is not going to be initiated by these folks... they cannot afford the risk. Like all things, residential housing construction change will come from the passionate; who will spread their passion to early adopters, where eventually (with success and time) consumer demand will gain the attention of large companies and the supply chain. (Can you believe what has happened with granite counter tops in the last 6 years? How about stainless steel appliances?)

Generally speaking we build homes today not unlike we did at the turn of the last century. Compare what has happened to the car over the same period of time. You wouldn’t build a car out in the open, exposed to the elements... one piece at a time.

And, let’s not let you and me off the hook in this pragmatic overview. Three startling examples; how long have we known about the hole in the ozone layer... why have home sizes increased when our actual household size has diminished and what is up with purchases of gas sucking, over-sized vehicles given an unprecedented run-up of gas prices?

It will not be easy, timely or convenient to adopt systemic change... real change that addresses the waste stream... considers manufacturing techniques and field execution strategies that deliver on the promise of sustainability without being trendy? Ultimately, we are preparing for success by supporting those who endeavor to make a difference... real people doing what must be done in a positive fashion... who inspire and teach us what is possible... step-by-step adopting better practices.

This web site is dedicated to those people and their efforts. Great design is at the heart of it all!