Sustainability can mean many things when talking about building products. It can mean long product lifespan, durability, short shipping distances, low chemical content, energy-efficiency, production from renewable resources, or even timeless beauty. We cut to the chase and chose all of the above.

The exterior of the house is designed to exemplify the soft color palate, contemporary architectural influences and amenities that have come to be associated with the California way of life. All exterior furniture and finishes are built of leading industry materials: including TimberTech composite decking material, durable and beautiful FSC certified California Redwood planter boxes and architectural accents, an FSC certified teak patio set, and handcrafted oak California wine-barrel stave chairs.

West and South Facing - "The Sunny Sides" James Hardie fiber cement siding - a sustainable combination of inert sand and fast-growing wood fiber panels the west and south walls of the Ripple Home where the most sunlight falls. Thanks to its advanced thermal insulating properties, it stores heat during the day and releases it at night. While ambient outdoor temperatures rise and fall, indoor temperatures remain comfortable and stable. James Hardie siding lasts 2-5 times longer than other siding products, saving money and resources by preventing frequent replacement.

East and South Facing - "The Shady Sides" Richlite is another extremely durable surface made of paper from certified managed forests throughout North America. The paper pulp is treated with resin, cross-linked, pressed and baked to create solid sheets that contribute to human health by eliminated off gassing, or the release of chemicals, during its lifespan. Richlite's low insulating properties make it idea for a siding material on the east and south walls. These wall receive most light early in the mornings, when the outdoor temperature is still relatively low and indoor heating is often turned up high. Rather than insulating our home against this source of natural heat, Richlite's low thermal mass allows us to welcome it inside and reduce the amount of heat the home must produce itself.