Topics
Sustainable Practice
We take sustainability seriously here at Board & Vellum, and support a science-based approach. Sustainable practice is more than just a checklist (even though that can help): it’s a philosophy and a commitment to meaningful results. We have a number of Passive House Certified and LEED-certified members on our team, and we are all passionate about protecting the natural and built environment.
Our sustainable practice studios.
Sustainable Practice
Sustainability is much more than certifications and solar panels. It is about improving the world we live in both environmentally and socially. It’s about reconnecting us with nature and providing opportunities for delight and discovery. Our integrated approach ensures we are thinking about sustainability from all angles to design the best, healthiest, spaces possible.
Learn more.Our sustainable practice portfolio projects.
Exterior Updates
Strategic updates to the building’s exterior — like a high-contrast paint upgrade — celebrate its commercial origin while bringing it into the 21st century with a new use. Queen Anne Commercial Conversion | Project Rendering by Board & Vellum
Adaptive Reuse of a 1980s Office Building
Queen Anne Commercial Conversion
A commercial-to-residential conversion transforming an unassuming building into a sustainable and vibrant multifamily community.
Multifamily Housing in South Lake Union
Stellar Apartments
With a distinctive design, this new apartment building responds to its transit-oriented location without blending in with the crowd.
Sustainable Living Designed Around Public Life
Stream Overlake Apartments
Seeking LEED Platinum certification, Stream Overlake blends highly-sustainable living with family-sized apartment homes.
A Green Home with Midcentury Cali Vibes
Fremont High-Performing Home
A green home with solar panels, a rainwater cistern for graywater irrigation, sheep’s wool insulation, and passive cooling strategies.
Our sustainable practice posts.
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.
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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.
Landscape Architecture, Sustainable Practice
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.
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.
Sustainable Practice
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.
Learn more.
Sustainable Practice
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.
Learn more.Our sustainable practice sustainability practices.
AIA 2030 Commitment
Board & Vellum is an AIA 2030 Commitment signatory because we understand that the impact we have as AEC professionals is immense.
LEED Certified by the U.S. Green Building Council
Our team includes many LEED-accredited professionals who possess comprehensive knowledge of contemporary sustainable practices across disciplines and sectors.
Living Building Challenge
We have multiple team members with experience on Living Building or other ILFI-certified projects, the most rigorous green building certification in the world.
Our sustainable practice recognition stories.
BUILD Sustainable Building Awards 2019
We’re honored that BUILD magazine has named us the "Architecture & Interior Design Firm of the Year" in Washington state in their Sustainable Building Awards, 2019.
Built Green Certified 4-Star Rating for Ballard Locks Residence
Our Ballard Locks Residence is now Built Green Certified with a 4-Star rating. Many thanks to wonderful clients and the team at Hammer & Hand!
Ada’s Technical Books & Café Featured at the 2014 Green Building Slam
At the 2014 Green Building Slam, Board & Vellum presented Ada's Technical Books & Café, featured as one of 10 projects honored.
2014 Residential Architect Design Awards Cite Ada’s Technical Books & Café
Ada’s Technical Books & Café was honored with a citation in the Light/Commercial category of the 2014 Residential Architect Design Awards.
Would you like to learn a little more about us?
We’re pleased you’re interested. Explore more about us and our work via the pages below.
Our Story
Client-centered authenticity is our north star, and we continue to prove that great design doesn’t require great ego.
Passing the Torch to New Leaders: Looking Ahead with Jeff Pelletier
With Terry Phelan’s retirement on the horizon, in this final episode of the Living Shelter podcast, Terry is joined by Board & Vellum Founder & Managing Principal, Jeff Pelletier, to discuss her impact on Board & Vellum and what is next for Board & Vellum’s efforts in the world of sustainable design.
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.