Sustainability
Buildings that work with nature, not against it, last longer. As expert green builders, we know our projects will outlast us—that’s the way it should be.
Our Principles
Living and working among the lush temperate rainforests of the West Coast, we respect the fragility of our ecosystem. That’s why we are dedicated to sustainable building practices that reduce our environmental impact and honour past and future generations who deserve to be in awe of our planet, too.
Holding a deep appreciation for the wisdom of the First Nations, whose connection to the land has endured for generations, we respectfully acknowledge that we live and work on the ancestral territories of the Squamish, Shishalh, and Tla’amin Nations.
Material Honesty
Whether working with wood, stone, concrete, or other materials, we embrace the opportunity to showcase natural textures and colours without excessive treatment. And, whenever possible, we prioritize sourcing materials locally.
Building Site Optimization
Every project has a unique site with varying light, vegetation, and topography. With careful planning, we work to identify advantages and reframe challenges as opportunities. For example, a “ground water problem” can become a resource in dry months.
Natural + Non-Toxic Materials
Healthy indoor air quality is key to every project. Paints, glues, solvents, and other products can introduce unhealthy VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) into a space, so we aim to select natural, non-toxic products whenever possible.
High-Performance Techniques
The goal of high-performance building is two-fold: comfort and energy efficiency. We achieve these by staying up-to-date on modern building science and practices, never afraid to embrace new technologies.
Case Study
Brad’s Passion Haus
When Summerhill president Brad Jennens set out to build his family home, the performance goal was aimed at the highest standard. The result? An innovative Net Zero Ready masterpiece, designed with LEED and Passive House principles, embodying a modern aesthetic that leans heavily on locally sourced and recycled materials.
Passive House + Net Zero
At the heart of our commitment to energy efficiency are the principles of Passive House, which we embrace as the gold standard in sustainable building, and Net Zero buildings, focused on reducing carbon emissions. We aim to integrate these fundamentals into each of our projects, tailored to their unique needs, with the goal of significantly reducing their environmental footprints. Many of our team members are Passive House certified tradespeople and we all share a passion for quality and high performance building.
One of Summerhill’s best traits is their sensitivity to the relationship between the building and site. Their stewardship and care for the land is commendable.
— Scott Keck, Architect, The Tree House
Our Initiatives
Community Garden Project
In 2020, we initiated a community garden project in Gibsons, BC, which we continue to support through financial contributions and in-kind resources.
Local Events
We support community events including the Banff Mountain Film Festival, the Gibsons Public Art Gallery, and the Coast Mountain Bike Trail Association.
Canadian Green Building Council
Reinforcing our long-term commitment to sustainable building practices, we’ve been members of the CaGBC since January 2010.
Summerhill Fine Homes Inc.
info@summerhill.build
604 886 7415
Unit #102, 675 Industrial Way
Gibsons, BC V0N 1V7
