Why Design Green

"Green" means how do we build a better world. As consumers we want an energy efficient home, a healthy home and a home that minimally impacts the environment.

• Buildings are responsible for approximately 35% of Canada's total greenhouse gas emissions; they consume 40% of the world's total energy and 25% of waste is generated from building construction.
• Traditional construction rarely takes into consideration the indoor air quality, the impacts on the environment due to the building materials we use or our natural surroundings.
• A green building is sited, designed, constructed and operated to enhance the well being of its occupants and to minimize the negative impacts on the community and natural environment.

Green design and building will not only ensure that our homes are healthy for us and healthy for the planet right now, but incorporating new practices and new ideas promotes learning and understanding for future generations.

Our Dedication

At Lighthouse Studios we search for new solutions, new products and services to make green innovation feasible. We are committed to designing a house that reflects your values, needs and interests and fulfills your sustainable requirements. With 15 years design experience, construction knowledge and project management experience, we have the ability to source, provide and incorporate products into the built environment. We are a member in good standing with the Canada Green Building council (CaGBC) and we are knowledgeable in the LEED Canada for Homes green building rating system.

What is LEED?

LEED stands for Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design. LEED is a national third-party certification program that recognizes leadership in green building. It rates homes by performance and addresses sustainable site development, energy efficiency, water efficiency, materials selection and indoor environmental quality. It goes beyond Energuide & Built Green programs as it addresses the finite environment and ideas of sustainable homes and communities.

Green Design Initiatives

At Lighthouse Studios we’ve developed 10 green design initiatives we believe are the foundations for a Sustainable home.

1. Super insulated building envelope
2. High performance windows and doors
3. Reducing building footprint; inner city locations
4. Recycling construction materials
5. High efficiency heat systems and fresh air supply
6. Low flow plumbing fixtures
7. Low energy lighting and appliances
8. Healthy and sustainable interior finish materials
9. Passive solar and renewable energy sources
10. Water efficient, low impact landscaping

Green design and building is not only a sustainable approach to construction but it produces a higher quality home, a healthier indoor environment, significantly lower operating costs and benefits both people and the planet.