Business Details
37 Years
experience
Your Trusted Partner for Sustainable Architecture Solutions
At C&H Architects, we design spaces that use resources efficiently, endure over time, and nourish the lives of their occupants. Founded in 1989 by Bruce Coldham, our firm specializes in sustainable architecture, working with mission-driven clients on residential, institutional, and commercial projects. Our approach prioritizes deep listening, collaboration, and leveraging decades of expertise to guide projects through defined phases without costly backtracking. We specialize in net-zero energy, passive house, living building certification, and historic energy retrofits, integrating thoughtful spaces, durable materials, and resourceful systems into every design.With three partnersThomas RC Hartman, Garth Schwellenbach, and Jesse Selmanand a network of top-tier consultants, we deliver personalized attention while maintaining a broad reach. Our commitment to sustainability includes a focus on reusing existing materials in historic buildings, blending practicality with environmental stewardship. Clients praise our ability to balance creativity with problem-solving, earning repeat business and referrals. We measure success through buildings that meet rigorous performance standards while fostering joy and longevity for future generations.
Services
Net Zero Passive House
Deep Energy Retrofit
Living Building Challenge
Historic Energy Retrofit
Residential Projects
Institutional Projects
Commercial Design
Sustainable Renovations
Electrification
Indoor Air Quality
Details
- Year established: 1989
Highlights and features
- We have 30+ years of experience in sustainable architectural design.
- Our team includes BIM and CADD specialists for precise project documentation.
- We maintain a network of top landscape designers, engineers, and consultants.
- Our designs consistently achieve rigorous performance standards like Living Building Certification.
- Clients praise our responsive communication and problem-solving flexibility.
Associations and certifications
- Passive House Institute US
- International Living Future Institute
What people say
Commitment to the job
Solve problems on the spot
Dedication to sustainable architecture
Flexible design process
Efficient administration
Services
Net Zero Passive House
Our net-zero passive house designs combine advanced building science with renewable energy systems to create ultra-efficient structures. We optimize insulation, air tightness, and solar gain while maintaining aesthetic appeal. These homes produce as much energy as they consume through rooftop solar panels and ultra-efficient mechanical systems.
Living Building Challenge
We help clients achieve Living Building Challenge certification, the world's most rigorous green building standard. Our approach addresses water, energy, health, and equity requirements. We've delivered the 5th fully certified Living Building globally, demonstrating our deep expertise in this specialized area.
Historic Energy Retrofit
Our historic energy retrofits modernize older structures while maintaining their character. We analyze existing materials' viability to reduce waste and carbon footprint. Recent projects transformed century-old buildings into high-performance spaces without compromising architectural heritage or structural integrity.
Residential Projects
We design custom homes focused on occupant comfort, natural lighting, and energy efficiency. From modernist hillside houses to craftsman-style renovations, each project reflects the owners' lifestyle while meeting rigorous sustainability standards. Our team handles additions, full renovations, and new construction.
Institutional Projects
We provide architectural services for colleges, universities, and nonprofits, including campus renovations and commercial spaces. Our institutional work emphasizes durability, accessibility, and energy performance. Recent projects include transforming historic campus buildings into state-of-the-art facilities while preserving architectural character.
People
Thomas RC Hartman
Principal
Partner with over 25 years of sustainable design experience. Leads complex institutional projects and mentors junior staff. Passionate about creating spaces that foster community engagement and environmental stewardship.
Garth Schwellenbach
Principal
Architect with expertise in historic preservation and energy retrofits. Specializes in transforming existing buildings into high-performance spaces. Recognized for innovative solutions that balance preservation with modern functionality.
Jesse Selman
Principal
Lead designer with a focus on net-zero energy projects. Brings technical expertise in building systems and material selection. Known for creative problem solving that maintains design integrity while meeting sustainability targets.
Bruce Coldham
Principal Emeritus
Founder with 30+ years of architectural experience. Established the firm's commitment to sustainable design in 1989. Continues to influence key projects while mentoring the next generation of architects.
Nate Lumen
Intern-Architect
Emerging architectural professional with advanced training in sustainable design principles. Supports project teams with technical knowledge and digital modeling expertise. Developing skills in passive house construction methods.
Questions
What types of architectural services do you offer?
We specialize in net-zero energy, passive house, living building certification, and historic energy retrofits for residential, institutional, and commercial clients.
Do you handle both new construction and renovations?
Yes, while we work on new builds, we particularly enjoy transforming existing structures to meet modern sustainability standards while preserving historic character.
Are you certified by any green building organizations?
We deliver projects meeting Passive House and Living Building Challenge standards, working with clients to achieve rigorous sustainability certifications.
How do you approach the design process?
We begin by deeply understanding your needs, site constraints, and budget through collaborative discussions that guide the entire project development process.
What areas do you primarily serve?
While we work on projects nationwide, our firm focuses on buildings in New England where we can leverage local knowledge and expertise.
Can you help with complex institutional projects?
Yes, we have extensive experience delivering large-scale institutional projects, including three years of work on a Living Building Challenge-certified structure for Smith College.
