Building sustainable assets

Down payment assistance

by Benjamin Brewer

As The Global Concern For Environmental Sustainability

GROWS, individuals and businesses increasingly seek ways to reduce their ecological footprint. In residential construction, one company stands out for its commitment to green building practices: Durango Green Homes. This innovative construction firm gained recognition for pioneering efforts to create sustainable and energy-efficient homes that blend seamlessly with nature.

Started in 2015 by Jacob Bleth and Robert Middleton, Durango Green Homes is known for its emphasis on environmentally-friendly construction practices. The duo, both longtime builders, were inspired after taking classes with the Passive House Institute, which developed the passive house concept: a rigorous and energyefficient building standard that focuses on achieving exceptional thermal comfort and indoor air quality while minimizing energy consumption through a combination of insulation, airtightness, high-performance windows and heat recovery ventilation systems. As a small building firm, they complete two-to-three projects a year.

“We’re not a big corporation,” Bleth said. “What we offer, compared to other builders, is third-party verified energy efficiency. We’re doing what we say we’re doing, and trying to do it at a comparable price to a standard constructed home.”

Efficiency is a cornerstone of the firm’s philosophy. The team employs cutting-edge technologies to minimize energy consumption, reduce utility costs, and lower greenhouse gas emissions. These include high-quality insulation and efficient heating and cooling systems that optimize energy use, lowering their client’s bills and carbon footprint long after construction. Durango Green Homes also offer remodeling services to existing homeowners looking to cut back on their energy bills.

“We started Durango Green Homes out of necessity,” Bleth said. “There’s a need for energyefficient structures in Southwest Colorado. Most structures built before 2015 do not follow modern energy-efficient building codes. So, we do what we can to minimize that during construction and with some remodel projects.”

In addition to focusing on sustainable construction practices, Durango Green Homes greatly emphasize creating homes that harmonize with their natural microclimates. Their designs are climate-specific, meaning that their homebuilding practices adapt construction techniques, materials and design elements to optimize energy efficiency, durability and comfort, based on the specific climate conditions of a region.

“What we’re building is characteristically different from what you should build in Phoenix, Arizona, or even the east coast,” Bleth said. “Here in the southwest, we see many leaky ceilings due to roofs that let too much heat escape and melt snow in the winter. So, part of the efficient building is tailoring our build to mitigate problems like that.”

The success and recognition of Durango Green Homes are a testament to the increasing demand in the community for sustainable housing options. As individuals and communities become more aware of the need for environmental responsibility, companies like Durango Green Homes are leading the way by showcasing the possibilities and benefits of green construction. By employing sustainable building materials and energy-efficient technologies, green construction reduces carbon emissions and minimizes the depletion of natural resources. It mitigates the environmental impact associated with construction activities and promotes long-term sustainability. Green buildings also provide healthier indoor environments, reducing pollutants and improving well-being of the residents. Additionally, green construction practices often incorporate water conservation measures, further preserving this valuable resource. By embracing green construction practices globally, builders can mitigate climate change, protect ecosystems, and create a healthier and more sustainable future for future generations.

Durango Green Homes is a shining example of green construction. They demonstrate that green homes can be beautiful, comfortable, and environmentally responsible using eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient technologies, and integration with nature. As the global focus on sustainability intensifies, Durango Green Homes pave the way for a future where every home is built with the planet’s health in mind.

“There’s a lot of wastefulness in construction today. But the science of home building has advanced to a point where we can make things very efficient if we do it right,” Bleth said. “We’re building an asset and not a liability for someone in the future.”

Architecturally designed 3 bedrooms, 2 bath home on 11 irrigated acres featuring a curving staircase, wood floors, tall ceilings, two car garage, carport and RV pad. The kitchen features a butcher block island with extra storage, a commercial six-burner gas stove, under-cabinet lighting, and a hanging pan rack. The main bedroom has a large bath with double sinks and a soaking tub with beautiful views and two walk-in closets. The large laundry room has extra space and cabinets for a hobby/craft area. The back of the home has decks and a flagstone patio. The fenced backyard is landscaped and also features a matching shed for your lawn equipment/patio furniture storage and 2 dog kennels. Property has no Home Owners Association or Covenants, free to do whatever you want within county rules, possibly a VRBO. Only 15 mins from Durango and five minutes from Mercy Hospital.

Visit the property website for more information: https://www.tourfactory.com/3076465

MLS # 798464 priced at $1,045,000

184 Pioneer Avenue

Enjoy end-of-road privacy with this 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath, 2-car garage home set on five beautiful, treed acres in the Lake Durango Subdivision. The home is set back from the road, giving a feeling of privacy. The open, great room has a stone fireplace that was hand set by a craftsman and is an absolute work of art. The main living area of the home has large windows perfect for growing plants and great passive solar gain. A great kitchen/dining room area flows out to a large patio, with both covered and uncovered spaces great for entertaining. The primary bedroom is on the upper level of the home with beautiful views south. It includes a large walk-in closet and a 4-piece bath with a large view window over the soaker tub. On this same level is an office/flex room. Two other bedrooms are on the main floor of the home and share a 4-piece bath. The tiered landscaping around the home is 100% xeriscaped. Flagstone walkways lead to a patio area away from the home with a circular fire pit area. A great spot for conversations or nighttime star gazing. This is an incredibly comfortable home and property with artistic style.