
Specialists in using Passive House and electrification strategies to design and build homes for optimum energy efficiency, healthy indoor air quality and a lower carbon footprint.
Often, there’s a moment when we see a connection between the health of the planet and our own choices. And that can be magic. It doesn’t always come in the form of dramatic change. Every adjustment is a step in the right direction.
At Carmel Building & Design, we know that the way we—and the building industry as a whole—approach our craft has a significant impact on carbon emissions and consequent climate change. And we have it within our power to turn things around.
A central focus is to reduce the energy demands of the homes we build and remodel to the point where the remaining energy needs can be met with onsite renewable sources such as solar. We have the know-how, resources, materials, technologies and growing body of experience to apply these strategies to any type of project. And, it’s simply the right thing to do.

Progressive, sustainable practices in a nutshell mean designing and building in a way that not only creates a better quality, much more energy efficient and comfortable home, but also reduces our overall negative impact on the environment.
In addition to following Passive House design and construction principles, we can incorporate electrification, Zero Net Energy, LEED, Living Building Challenge and other building science protocols.
We also utilize strategies like advanced framing and window placement for passive light and temperature control, reclaimed or recycled materials when possible and finishes with very low or no VOCs.
Carmel Building & Design, sustainable, energy-efficient home design and building specialists, provides complete design and construction services where we manage your project from beginning to completion. We also provide general contracting services, collaborating with you and your architect or designer to ensure an excellent finished project, and experience.


Passive House
These 5 key principles of Passive House* can be applied to new construction, remodels and retrofits:

*Source: Passive House Institute
While we focus on residential design/build, Passive House principles can be applied to any building type from institutional and educational to commercial and industrial. In addition to a low carbon footprint, greater comfort and excellent indoor air quality, a Passive House affords additional benefits including lower operating costs, increased quiet, and greater durability and value. Learn more about Passive House here.
Carmel Building & Design Services
Our design/build service is end-to-end, whether it’s an extensive remodel or new construction. If you opt for our general contracting service, we work with your architect or designer to build or remodel your home.
End-to-end service for new construction and remodels
We collaborate with you and your designer or architect to build or remodel your home
The Carmel Building & Design Process
At Carmel Building & Design, our focus is on you, the client. We take time to understand your vision and sustainability goals, and work with you to make them a reality. Our aim is to make sure your home and your experience surpass your expectations.
Phase 1
Phase 2
Phase 3
With a well-thought-out plan that has been viewed from every angle, the construction phase gets underway. The craft and science of building is constantly evolving. Not only do we follow today’s most advanced practices, we stay ahead of new developments that will define quality homes of the future. Carmel Building & Design embraces techniques and technologies that enhance energy efficiency, indoor air quality and durability, reduce energy and maintenance costs and increase the value of your home. Our standard building practices are environmentally conscious, resulting in a better-built home with little or no added expense.
Communication during the project is critical not only to keep the project on track, but for your peace of mind. Whether you are local or from out of town, we keep you informed about your project in a number of ways. Many of our clients utilize our secure, web-based information-sharing tool where we post specifications, updates, photos and other project related information. You can check the status of your project, view comments from the team and communicate with us online, anytime, from anywhere. Of course, we’re always available in person, by phone or by email if that’s more your style. Throughout the project, we’ll send you regular, itemized billings that include original documentation for all work and materials, and a summary of expenditures by budget item so you can see where every penny is spent.
When you sign on with Carmel Building & Design, we make a personal commitment to provide you with the information you need to manage and enjoy your home. While it varies by type of project, we provide everything from inspection cards and lien releases to a complete Homeowner’s Manual. And we back up our work with a hassle-free warranty service.
Because of the exceptional product and experience we provide, and the personal relationships our site supervisors develop with homeowners, many of our clients return to us for additional projects and recommend us to friends and family.