Residential Design
BFC is a Seattle-based design studio focusing on new residential construction, remodels, retreats, backyard cottages/DADUs and high performance homes. We work with developers, builders and homeowners that value strong, innovative design. We seek modern, appropriately-sized, simple solutions that are honest, restrained and strongly connected to their site. We believe that good design and environmental responsibility are not mutually exclusive. The sustainable strategies we employ are integral to our work, not something plugged into the building after the fact. For each project, our aim is to design functional, intelligent and enduring solutions that fit your needs and goals. Our approach is a balanced combination of intuition, rationale, and refinements that distillate into an architecture of simple elegance.
Passivhaus Consulting
We offer Passivhaus consulting to those seeking to build the most comfortable and energy efficient houses possible. With several projects in various phases of design and construction, we offer great value, innovation and strategies to meet the stringent requirements of Passivhaus cost-effectively. We’re well versed in the tools required to implement affordable high performance housing, and are constantly seeking appropriate solutions. We offer design + consulting services to homeowners interested in cost-effectively meeting Passivhaus, as well as consulting services for architects and homeowners working with other architects.
Sustainability
Michael and Aaron first became interested in sustainable design and construction while working on a rammed earth farmhouse while attending Virginia Tech. Additionally, both worked in Germany for firms that emphasized sustainable design without sacrificing architectural quality, an interest that has carried through their present work and ethos. Both have completed Certified Passive House Consultant training and have avid interests in ultra-low energy housing, schools and offices - including net zero energy, Living Building Challenge and the Passive House standards. While Michael is a LEED Accredited Professional, brute force collaborative is interested in the post-LEED green movement and providing an outlet for opening up the dialogue beyond LEED and associated greenwashing, emphasizing significantly reduced carbon footprints, conservation, daylighting and energy reduction.
Our approach to sustainable design is grounded in the natural topography and solar orientation of the site. Optimizing construction to reduce waste, utilizing lower-embodied energy materials, significantly reducing energy and water consumption, and integrating passive ventilation and heating are features we’re constantly striving for, as well as incorporating prefab-friendly systems, such as modular construction and panelized wall assemblies.