Greenest Little House in America – Oakland

Sustainability is deeply rooted in the way we work at Canyon Design Build. When the founder of the U.S. Green Building Council and World Green Building Councils approached us to renovate a 1915 Craftsman bungalow in Oakland, his vision was clear: to create the greenest little house in America. The result earned a LEED for Homes Platinum rating—the highest certification awarded by the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design program. That recognition reflects the thoughtful, layered approach we brought to the project. We focused on water and energy efficiency, reused existing materials wherever possible, and incorporated 100-year-old reclaimed redwood to craft the entryway, deck, and outdoor shower. Low-VOC finishes, FSC-certified lumber, recycled-content tile, and locally sourced products were selected with intention. The systems behind the walls are just as considered. We installed solar electric and solar hot water, along with rainwater and graywater capture to support the landscape. The home also features a sophisticated conservation system that recycles wastewater from sinks and showers.

In the backyard, a steel-clad freestanding home office completes the property with radiant heating, solar panels, wired internet, and dual-pane windows. Featured in numerous publications as a model for sustainable residential design, this project reflects what’s possible when thoughtful construction meets ambitious environmental goals.