Building with Purpose

Honestly, sustainability isn't just a checkbox for us - it's how we think about every single project that comes through our doors

Sustainable design approach
OUR PHILOSOPHY

Why We're All-In on Green Design

Look, when I started this studio back in 2009, sustainable architecture was still pretty niche. Now? It's become the baseline for how we approach every residential and commercial project.

We've seen firsthand how thoughtful design can slash energy bills by 40-60%, improve air quality, and just make spaces feel better to live and work in. That's not marketing speak - those are real numbers from our Vancouver projects.

Passive Design First

We position buildings to work with the sun, not against it

Material Consciousness

Local sourcing when possible, recycled content when it makes sense

Long-Term Thinking

Buildings that'll still perform great in 50 years

Our Impact by the Numbers

Real data from projects we've completed across BC

0
Green Projects

Since we opened our doors

0%
Avg Energy Savings

Compared to conventional builds

0
Tonnes CO2 Offset

Annually from our portfolio

0
LEED Certifications

Gold and Platinum level

CERTIFICATIONS & STANDARDS

We Walk the Talk

These aren't just logos on our website - we're actively certified and keep up with ongoing education in all these areas

LEED Accredited

Three of our principal architects hold LEED AP credentials. We've guided 23 projects through successful certification - including two Platinum builds right here in Vancouver.

Active Since 2011

Passive House Certified

Passive House is tough - like really tough. The energy modeling alone takes weeks. But it's the gold standard for comfort and efficiency, especially in our climate.

12 Projects Completed

Built Green Canada

We're proud builder members of Built Green Canada. Their checklist approach works great for residential projects where full LEED certification might be overkill budget-wise.

Gold Member

Net Zero Ready

We design buildings ready for net-zero operation. Sometimes clients add solar right away, sometimes in phase two - but the building envelope and systems are ready either way.

8 Net Zero Projects

Rainwater Management

Vancouver gets a lot of rain - might as well use it. We integrate rainwater harvesting and greywater systems where local codes allow and budgets permit.

15+ Systems Installed

Material Health

Low-VOC everything. We spec materials that won't off-gas nasty stuff into your home or office. Your lungs will thank us, especially during those long Vancouver winters indoors.

Standard Practice
Solar integration Green roof
PRACTICAL STRATEGIES

What Actually Works in BC

After 15 years doing this in the Lower Mainland, we've figured out what delivers real results vs. what just sounds good in theory.

This is Design 101 but you'd be surprised how often it gets overlooked. We maximize south-facing glass for winter heat gain, minimize west exposure to avoid summer overheating. Sounds simple but it requires careful site analysis and sometimes tough conversations about view priorities.

We're talking R-40+ walls and R-60+ roofs. Triple-pane windows minimum. Yeah, it costs more upfront - maybe 8-12% premium on construction. But heating bills drop by half or more. In Vancouver's crazy real estate market, that adds resale value too.

Heat recovery ventilators (HRVs) are standard in all our projects now. They bring in fresh air without dumping all your heat outside. Combined with proper air sealing, you get fresh air without the energy penalty. Game-changer for our climate.

Rain gardens, permeable paving, green roofs where feasible. We design to keep stormwater on-site instead of overwhelming city systems. Plus cisterns for irrigation - why use potable water on your garden when free rain falls from the sky?

Materials We Actually Recommend

Based on local availability, performance data, and real-world durability in BC's climate

BC Timber

FSC-certified wood from BC forests. Lower embodied carbon than steel or concrete, supports local forestry, and performs great structurally.

Recycled Content

Fly ash concrete, reclaimed brick, recycled steel. Keeps waste out of landfills and typically performs just as well as virgin materials.

Mineral Wool Insulation

Better than fiberglass, way better than spray foam environmentally. Fire-resistant, sound-dampening, and doesn't settle over time.

Low-VOC Finishes

Paints, stains, sealers that don't off-gas volatile organic compounds. Indoor air quality matters - a lot more than most people realize.

Sustainability consultation

Let's Talk About Your Project

Every site is different. Every budget is different. We get it - sustainability needs to work within your constraints, not the other way around.

Whether you're planning a new build, renovating a heritage property, or just want to understand what's possible with your commercial space, we're happy to walk through options without the sales pitch.

(604) 555-7823
contact@navorenquinthalx.info
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