If you are about to embark on a new construction project, you may want to consider how sustainable architecture could positively impact the world around you. From the materials you choose to use to the land on which you build, there are many ways that you could make a positive impact. At Ecosmith Architecture and Consulting, our expert staff can help you begin building an eco-friendly home that will offer an impressive performance for years to come.

When building an eco-friendly home, considering where you are building is an important aspect. As a result, you may want to think about what it means to build there in terms of the surrounding features and government agencies that make decisions for the jurisdiction. Proximity to streams, native habitats, wetlands, and shorelines can all play a role in where and how you begin construction. Additionally, other aspects of the natural world, such as an eagle's nest on a surrounding piece of land, can also impact your upcoming project.

As a result, you may want to check local zoning, planning, and comprehensive plans in order to be sure that you are going about building an eco-friendly home in the best way possible. Fortunately, our experienced team can help you consider the best path to completing your project.

When building an eco-friendly home, you may also want to think about the type of wood you use. As you go about making these choices, looking for the FSC trademark label can point you in the right direction. The FSC, Forest Stewardship Council, founded a certification program in 1993 in order to promote great building decisions. As a result, the 10 principles and 57 criteria can assist you when it comes to taking socially beneficial and environmentally-sound actions when building an eco-friendly home.

As for what you should specifically be looking for when choosing the perfect lumber for your residential or commercial project, there are many things that may be helpful in making the final call. Thinking about protecting fragile ecosystems, respecting local economies, and looking at native cultures are three things that you may want to pay close attention to when building an eco-friendly home.

Additionally, the materials that are used can also make a noticeable difference when building an eco-friendly home. Many products, which range from particle board to paint, may result in allergic reactions and headaches. Therefore, looking for items that have little to no VOC (volatile organic compounds) can combat potential problems down the road. Asking your contractor what adhesives, sealants, and primers they're using is a great way to open up the conversation about healthy building materials.

To discuss how you can begin building an eco-friendly home, we would like to extend an invitation to reach out. We are located at 353 Wallace Way NE #5 in Bainbridge Island, WA. Our phone number is 206-380-4910. Our service area also includes Bainbridge Island, Seattle, Bellevue, Kirkland, Bremerton, Shoreline, WA. Contact us today to take the first step towards creating a green living environment that is beautiful and sustainable. We look forward to working with you.