TADASHI SHIGA \\ THE BLOG

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Taking Sustainable Action With Passive Houses

In the world of sustainable design, the goal is for a home to do the absolute maximum on the absolute least amount of energy. We want our homes to work for us, but we don’t want it to come at a cost to our earth. So, where do designers start when attempting to construct a home that meets sustainability requirements while also not costing a fortune and remaining comfortable? They can follow the standards of Passive House, a set of design principles that aims to create energy-efficient buildings. In this blog, we’ll be featuring a firm that makes Passive House design look like an art form: Artisans Group, an award-winning, PNW, women-owned firm that pairs sustainability with style in a remarkable way.

Making a Difference in the Industry

As the first Passive House-Verifier in Washington State myself, it's inspiring to witness like-minded individuals who are similarly set on making real changes in the industry. Tessa Bradley, Principal of Artisans Group, is also a champion of Passive House, speaking at conferences to spread the word and share her high level of expertise. To witness Tessa’s work and learn more about her is to understand that the reason she’s so productive within the industry is because she truly believes in the cause.

Greener Design, Healthier Home Life

When Tessa started the firm alongside Principal Roussa Cassel, their roots were green, focusing on Built Green and LEED projects and proving that they’ve had sustainability top of mind from the very beginning. Since then, Tessa has become a passionate champion of Passive House design, constantly thinking of ways to innovate even further. According to Artisans Group’s website, “Passive House is an architectural design method that conserves up to 75% more energy than conventional construction and makes indoor living healthier, more comfortable, and more joyful.” These homes boast fresher, healthier air, quieter systems, and more controlled temperatures. They’re intentionally designed and built, and the final product enhances the quality of the future homeowner’s life.

Queen Anne Passive House

More Than Functional

Tessa’s goal isn’t to merely create greener homes focused on conservation but also to ensure that these homes are modern, stylish, and just as impressive aesthetically as they are functionally. From modern A-frame cabins to timber frame octagon-shaped homes, Artisans Group pushes the envelope and creates projects that any homeowner would be proud to own as an heirloom property for generations to come. 

Dogwood Net-Zero Passive House

Let’s Connect

If you’re curious about my involvement in Passive House verification or want to discuss development or investment opportunities, please reach out. I’m always thrilled to chat about sustainable design and would love to share some of my favorite innovative new developments.