MATERIALS

All material choices exemplify the sustainable initiative, modern barn aesthetic, and connection with nature. Finishes and furnishings were selected and designed with environmental sensitivity as a priority while achieving a beautiful, comfortable, and functional living space.

Wood

• FSC western red cedar for interior walls, ceiling and purlins.
• FSC white oak for doors and cabinetry.
• FSC douglas fir for trusses and beams.
• FSC eucalyptus for window frames.
• FSC bamboo for wine cellar racks.
• Solid oak salvaged from 150-year-old barns for floors. Read More >

Stone & earthen materials

• No newly quarried stone, except kitchen counter tops.
• Reclaimed or salvaged limestone fireplaces and paving.
• Durable, resource-efficient concrete mixes.
• Locally made and naturally pigmented Heath tile for showers (no colors that require lead or copper to create were used).
• Natural lime plaster at children’s bedroom walls and bathrooms to demonstrate sustainable methods of achieving color. Read More >

Glass

• Optimized for thermal performance, daylighting, clarity, protection of furnishings.
• Super-efficient Serious Windows (formerly Alpen) R-20 center of glass.
• Overall performance of units from R-7.8 (U-.13) to R-14.1 (U-.07). Read More >

Metal

• Door and cabinet hardware manufactured from 100% recycled scrap bronze.
• Loft railing hand forged by a local craftsman using recycled wrought iron.
• Recycled metal used throughout the project for furniture, fixtures and kitchen hood.
  Read More >

Waste

We designed waste out of the project at every phase of design and construction, as well as out of our lifestyles, as much as possible. We reused or recycled 97% of the materials in the pre-existing structures and 99% of the new construction materials. Our food waste is "recycled" by our chickens. Packaging materials and other household byproducts go to our municipal curbside recycling program. We have no "wastewater;" our treated black and gray water irrigates the landscape and recharges the water table.