Building Better, Not Just Bigger

Look, we're not here to greenwash or throw around fancy eco-jargon. We're genuinely trying to design buildings that don't trash the planet.

Sustainable design process

Why We Actually Care About This Stuff

Honestly? Because we've got kids, friends with kids, and we'd like Toronto to still be livable in 50 years. The construction industry's responsible for nearly 40% of global carbon emissions, and pretending that's someone else's problem feels pretty irresponsible.

When we started Cinder on Quinthale back in 2009, sustainable design wasn't exactly trendy. Clients thought solar panels were ugly, and triple-pane windows seemed excessive. Fast forward to now, and we're watching energy bills skyrocket while summers get hotter every year.

We've learned that good sustainable design isn't about sacrificing comfort or aesthetics - it's about making smarter choices from the ground up. Sometimes literally.

"Every building we design is a 50-year commitment to either helping or hurting the environment. We choose helping."

Our Certifications & Street Cred

These aren't just badges to put on our website - they represent real training and ongoing commitments.

LEED Accredited

We've got three LEED APs on staff who've worked on over 45 certified projects across Ontario. Real experience, not just theory.

Passive House Certified

Yeah, we've done the intense training. Passive House standards are tough but they work - we've seen the energy bills to prove it.

CaGBC Member

Active members of Canada Green Building Council since 2010. We attend conferences, share knowledge, and stay current.

Net Zero Ready

Trained in net-zero design principles. Several of our buildings are already operating at near-zero energy consumption.

Real Numbers From Real Projects

We track this stuff obsessively. Here's what we've actually achieved across our portfolio since 2015:

62%

Average energy reduction vs. standard buildings

2.8M

Kilograms of CO2 offset annually through our designs

48%

Less water consumption through smart fixtures and systems

85%

Construction waste diverted from landfills

18

LEED certified buildings completed

$340K

Average lifetime energy savings per residential project

How We Actually Do This

No magic, no greenwashing - just thoughtful design choices that add up.

Passive Solar Design

We orient buildings to maximize natural light and heat gain in winter while minimizing it in summer. Sounds simple, but you'd be surprised how many architects ignore this basic principle. Proper overhangs, window placement, and thermal mass can cut HVAC needs by a third.

Advanced Building Envelope

Think of the envelope as your building's jacket. We spec high-performance insulation, eliminate thermal bridges, and ensure airtight construction. Triple-pane windows aren't excessive - they're essential in Canadian winters. We've measured this stuff with blower door tests.

Water Management Systems

Rainwater harvesting, greywater recycling, low-flow everything. Toronto's water infrastructure is aging, and conservation just makes sense. We've designed systems that cut municipal water use by half while keeping everything functional and code-compliant.

Material Selection

We prioritize locally sourced materials, recycled content, and low-VOC finishes. Reclaimed wood isn't just trendy - it has lower embodied energy. We've got relationships with suppliers who share our values and can document their environmental practices.

Energy Systems

Heat pumps, solar panels, energy recovery ventilators - we design for efficiency and renewable energy integration. LED lighting's a given. Smart building systems learn occupancy patterns. And yeah, we always run the numbers to show ROI.

Site Integration

Native plantings reduce irrigation needs. Green roofs manage stormwater and provide insulation. We work with existing topography instead of fighting it. Every site has potential for biodiversity enhancement if you're willing to look for it.

Green roof implementation

The Honest Truth About Cost

Let's address the elephant in the room - sustainable design can cost more upfront. Not always, but sometimes. We're not gonna lie about that.

Here's the thing though: when you factor in lifecycle costs, energy savings, and increased property value, the math usually works out pretty favorably. Most of our residential clients see payback within 7-10 years, then enjoy decades of lower operating costs.

Commercial clients often do even better because they're looking at longer time horizons. Plus there are rebates, grants, and tax incentives we help navigate - Ontario's got decent programs if you know where to look.

What impacts cost most?
  • High-performance windows and doors (but they last 30+ years)
  • Enhanced insulation and air sealing (pays back fast)
  • Solar panels and renewable systems (rebates help significantly)
  • Advanced HVAC systems (offset by lower energy bills)

Let's Talk About Your Project

Whether you're looking for LEED certification, Passive House standards, or just want to build smarter, we'd love to walk through what's possible for your site and budget.

No pressure, no sales pitch - just honest conversation about what makes sense for your specific situation.

Get In Touch
(416) 555-0142
info@cinderonquinthale.info