Business Details
50 Years
experience
Sustainable Custom Home Design by David Wright, Architect
David Wright Associates has been pioneering sustainable design solutions since 1976. Our firm specializes in creating energy-efficient residential and commercial structures that harmonize with their natural environments through passive solar principles. With over 400 custom residences completed across diverse climate zones, we combine three decades of practical experience with cutting-edge building technologies. Our team maintains NCARB certification and holds licenses in six states, ensuring compliance with the most stringent building codes. We distinguish ourselves through comprehensive 3D modeling capabilities, extensive knowledge of alternative construction materials, and a proven track record of delivering projects that achieve exceptional thermal performance.Our commitment to environmental stewardship is demonstrated through our leadership roles in land conservation organizations and our focus on fire-resistant, low-maintenance building systems. Every project benefits from our deep understanding of daylighting strategies, natural ventilation principles, and structural insulated panel construction methods.
Services
Custom Home Design
Passive Solar Architecture
Sustainable Remodels
Commercial Buildings
Construction Documents
Historical Preservation
Energy Efficiency Plans
Site-Specific Design
3D Modeling Services
Building Code Compliance
Details
- Year established: 1976
Highlights and features
- We offer 40+ years of pioneering experience in passive solar architecture
- Our designs incorporate structural insulated panel (SIP) construction expertise
- We maintain NCARB certification and multi-state licensing for nationwide projects
- Our team includes licensed structural engineers and LEED-accredited professionals
- We provide complete construction documentation packages with electrical and mechanical plans
Associations and certifications
- NCARB
What people say
Energy-efficient designs
Personalized service
Expertise in solar architecture
Exceptional communication
Successful complex projects
Services
Custom Home Design
Our custom home design service creates personalized living spaces that integrate passive solar principles and sustainable materials. Each project begins with an extensive client consultation to understand lifestyle needs and site-specific considerations. We deliver complete construction documents including electrical, plumbing, and mechanical plans, with optional 3D modeling for enhanced visualization. Our expertise in SIP construction and energy-efficient systems ensures homes that maintain comfortable temperatures year-round while minimizing environmental impact.
Passive Solar Architecture
Specializing in passive solar architecture, we design buildings that naturally regulate temperature through strategic orientation and material selection. Our approach combines decades of research with practical implementation of thermal mass, daylighting, and natural ventilation systems. We provide detailed energy performance calculations and have extensive experience with off-grid solar electric systems. This service is ideal for clients seeking low-maintenance, energy-efficient structures that reduce reliance on mechanical heating and cooling.
Commercial Buildings
Our commercial architecture service focuses on creating functional, energy-efficient spaces for businesses and institutions. We specialize in integrating sustainable materials and systems into projects ranging from veterinary hospitals to educational centers. The process includes site analysis, code compliance verification, and coordination with engineering consultants. Our commercial projects consistently achieve high energy efficiency ratings while maintaining aesthetic appeal and operational functionality for diverse business needs.
Construction Documents
We provide comprehensive construction document packages that meet the most stringent building code requirements. Each set includes foundation plans, floor plans, elevations, cross-sections, and electrical/mechanical schematics. Our documents incorporate structural calculations for snow, wind, and seismic loads, reducing the need for extensive local engineering modifications. For out-of-state projects, we offer coordination with local professionals to ensure code compliance while maintaining design integrity.
Historical Preservation
This service focuses on restoring and adapting historic buildings while maintaining their architectural character. We combine traditional design principles with modern energy efficiency upgrades, as demonstrated in our Victorian renovation projects. Our approach preserves historical elements while integrating contemporary systems for improved functionality. We work closely with local preservation authorities to ensure compliance with heritage regulations while meeting modern living standards and accessibility requirements.
People
David Wright
Senior Architect
David Wright is a licensed architect with over 40 years of experience in passive solar design. He has designed more than 400 custom residences across the US and authored multiple books on sustainable architecture. His work has received national recognition in publications like Sunset Magazine and National Geographic.
Catherine Wright
Office Manager
Catherine Wright has managed business operations for David Wright Associates for over 35 years. She oversees financial management and client communications while ensuring smooth project coordination. Her organizational expertise complements the firm's technical capabilities.
Megan Wright Matthews
Structural Engineer
Megan Wright Matthews is a licensed structural engineer with expertise in green building technologies. She provides technical oversight for complex projects and specializes in 3D modeling and sustainable material applications. Her engineering background enhances the firm's architectural solutions.
Heather Wright Foye
Licensed Architect
Heather Wright Foye brings practical design expertise to residential and commercial projects. She focuses on budget-conscious solutions that maintain aesthetic quality and functional efficiency. Her approach emphasizes client collaboration and timely project delivery.
Questions
What architectural styles do you specialize in?
We specialize in passive solar and sustainable architecture across various styles including contemporary, southwest, and mountain lodge designs.
Do you work on both residential and commercial projects?
Yes, we handle residential custom homes, remodels, and commercial/institutional buildings like veterinary hospitals and educational centers.
Can you modify existing house plans?
Yes, we offer customization services to adapt our pre-designed plans to specific sites, budgets, and client requirements.
What building materials do you recommend?
We specialize in SIP construction, structural insulated panels, and other energy-efficient materials that provide fire resistance and thermal performance.
Are your designs energy code compliant?
Our plans meet California's strict building codes and can be adapted to meet requirements in other states through local engineering coordination.
Do you provide construction oversight?
We offer construction document coordination and can recommend experienced builders familiar with our sustainable design principles.
