Terry Phelan
Sustainable Practice
The Tradeoffs: There is No All-or-Nothing for Sustainable Practice
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution for sustainable practice. We know that having an all-or-nothing mentality can leave people stuck without knowing which facet of sustainable design they should focus on. Meeting you where you’re at lets us guide you through the right options for your project needs, budget, and aesthetic goals.
Learn more.
Sustainable Practice
The New Normal: A More Sustainable Starting Line
When some people hear ”the new normal,“ they feel resigned or discouraged. For sustainable practices, though, we think the new normal is a good thing — an exciting and inspiring opportunity to reflect on the past, consider the more sustainable starting line of the present, and look forward to where we’re going.
Learn more.
Architecture, Sustainable Practice
Straw Bale Construction FAQ
Have you ever heard of straw bale construction? It’s a form of building construction where bales of straw are stacked within a timber frame to insulate the walls. Not only is this a sustainable building method, it’s just plain cool. If you’e curious to know more, check out these frequently asked questions.
Learn more.
Ask a Designer, Sustainable Practice
What To Consider When Future-Proofing Your Home
How long do you plan to stay in your current home? If you’re considering staying in it through your golden years, you’ll want to start thinking about future-proofing. Confused? Don’t worry! Here, we’ll walk you through the four basic principles to follow when you’re planning to age in place.
Learn more.
Sustainable Practice
The Wonders of Cork as a Sustainable Material
Would it surprise you to learn that cork is a beautiful, sustainable material with many applications as an interior and exterior finish? This spring, Terry Phelan had the opportunity to witness a cork oak harvest firsthand and now shares the wonders of this product with you!
Learn more.
News
Teaming Up: A Message From Terry Phelan
As a leader in sustainable and green design, Terry has dedicated her 30-plus-year career to finding ways to expand the deep green space. As her retirement approaches, Terry is looking forward to continuing to focus on educating the public and mentoring the next generation of designers to carry on the amazing work she and Living Shelter have started.
Learn more.Would you like to read more from the team?
If you enjoy reading our blog as much as we enjoy writing it, that just makes our day! You might also enjoy a few of the related posts below. And, if there is a topic that you wish we would cover, let us know!
The Tradeoffs: There is No All-or-Nothing for Sustainable Practice
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution for sustainable practice. We know that having an all-or-nothing mentality can leave people stuck without knowing which facet of sustainable design they should focus on. Meeting you where you’re at lets us guide you through the right options for your project needs, budget, and aesthetic goals.
The New Normal: A More Sustainable Starting Line
When some people hear ”the new normal,“ they feel resigned or discouraged. For sustainable practices, though, we think the new normal is a good thing — an exciting and inspiring opportunity to reflect on the past, consider the more sustainable starting line of the present, and look forward to where we’re going.
Environmentally Responsible Landscape Design
Being a good partner to the planet often begins right at home. If you’re curious about ways you can integrate sustainable design into your yard, garden, and other outdoor areas, there are many options! It’s an excellent place to start thinking about environmentally responsible landscape design.
Straw Bale Construction FAQ
Have you ever heard of straw bale construction? It’s a form of building construction where bales of straw are stacked within a timber frame to insulate the walls. Not only is this a sustainable building method, it’s just plain cool. If you’e curious to know more, check out these frequently asked questions.
An Introduction to the Living Building Challenge
A lot of people know about green certifications. You might have heard of systems such as LEED or Passive House. But have you ever heard of the Living Building Challenge? It’s a building certification introduced by the International Living Building Institute that takes a unique perspective on what being ”sustainable“ actually means.
The Basics of Embodied Carbon
If you’re interested in reducing your carbon footprint, you’ve probably thought about carbon emissions in your everyday life. But have you ever considered embodied carbon? Embodied carbon considers the carbon emissions of the entire lifecycle of a product. Read on to learn more how embodied carbon could impact the sustainability goals of your project.
Considering a project, or curious about something?
Say hello, and send us your questions via the form below. We’re always pleased to make new connections, and eager to get to know you, your project, and your goals.
Achieved a Just label from the International Living Future Institute in 2023.
Honored as a finalist for residential landscape design.
Our team includes LEED-accredited professionals.
Our team includes certified Passive House consultants.
A Certified LGBT Business Enterprise Since 2016.
Honoring companies that lead in promoting equality.