Build 2016 Construction & Engineering Awards

Build 2016 Construction & Engineering Awards 78 omes can change the world.” This credo forms the basis of work done by Virge Temme Architecture since its founding in 1999. The firm specializes primarily in single family homes and boutique galleries, restaurants and spas. In order to ensure the long term benefits for the world, education about the environment and how choices in our buildings and lifestyles affect the world is a key component of her architectural practice. Principal Virge has designed homes in a variety of styles including rustic log cabins,1920s-style cottages and sleek modern design, depending on the needs and preferences of the owner. Several of these homes have received national recognition, but regardless of their varied appearances, all her homes are designed based on strict conservation concepts and climate-spe- cific principles wherever possible. Virge has implemented numerous sustainable design and construction tech- niques in her designs which have been carried into the local construction industry. These include advanced framing, local materials sourcing, Passive House modeling, net-zero energy and carbon-neutral design, as well as the first state-approved residential rainwater catchment system. She is now starting what will be her fourth and fifth LEED Platinum homes, and throughout all of her projects Virge has made it her mission to assist the public in understanding the health and financial benefits of green design, as well as the environmental benefits. Each LEED home opens its door four times to the public during construction to present mini-seminar topics which include high-efficiency HVAC systems, super-insulated envelopes, site conservation, solar energy, and materials recycling. In addition to designing some of the most energy-efficient homes in Wis- consin, Virge is also creating a series of net-zero energy single family homes called “SAGE”, which stands for Small, Affordable, Green and Expandable, in response to the need for lower and moderate income sustainable housing. All SAGE homes come with pre-designed expansion capabilities to account for changes in households or budgets. Each element and material selected for the homes is vetted and selected based on cost, enhancement of thermal envelop, visual appeal, and environmental impact. Currently Virge is collaborating with local government to review and revise zoning codes to allow for smaller homes and lots, integration of housing within commercial districts, and application of LEED protocols for all new construction and remodeling projects within the community. Recognised Leaders in Green Architecture - Mid-West USA Virge Temme is an award-winning architect with a focus on environmentally responsible and energy efficient design. We profile her and explore the secrets behind her success. “H CE160048 Company: Virge Temme Architecture Inc Address: 9098 Lime Kiln Road, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235 Phone: 920.824.5746 Website: http://virgetemme.com/