The Company
HarvestBuild Associates, Inc. is a small design/consultation company specializing in Passive Houses using innovative straw-bale and straw/clay construction techniques. Here is what sets us apart…
Our commitment to embracing Passive House standards
Passive House energy performance is real and can be achieved cost-effectively, as more than 15,000 houses in Europe have proven. If one can easily design and build a house that needs no furnace or air conditioner, why would you do anything else? The HarvestBuild Associates feel strongly that planet Earth deserves nothing less, and we are committed to working only on projects that have Passive House performance as the goal.
Our singular qualifications
We have an in-depth understanding of Passivhaus challenges, Bau-Biologie principles, and building science concepts that is unique among design/build professionals. This knowledge is based on our extensive education, training, and experience.
Our attention to detail
Getting the details right is critical to ensuring quality, whether it's designing fuel cells for space vehicles or developing innovative natural building systems. We take pride in our attention to detail — it permeates all of our work.
Our almost exclusive use of natural building materials
The use of modern, high-tech, synthetic building materials is widespread, but these materials are not essential for achieving Passive House energy performance. Natural materials are a viable option, and from a health and environmental standpoint, are clearly superior. We specify natural building materials whenever possible, and use more processed alternatives only in cases where natural materials are impractical or unavailable.
Our innovative building systems
We have developed innovative straw-bale and straw/clay construction systems that can be adapted to fit any style or type of building, and continuously strive to add to this creative palette. Our revolutionary Naturally Passive House concept has evolved from this creative expression. It delivers exceptional energy performance, is easily adapted to standard contractor building practices, and is simple and cost-effective to build.
Our team approach
From architects and engineers to a variety of tradespeople, we are connected to a network of talented and experienced design/build professionals that share the same commitment to sustainability as the HarvestBuild Associates. We collaborate with our clients and their network to assemble a custom team for each and every project.
Our personalized solutions
By merging our innovative natural building systems with the contributions of the team, we end up with a Naturally Passive House that is optimized for our client's wishes, and one that in every case is cost-effective, energy efficient, environmentally responsible, healthy, durable, and beautiful.