Environment

We continue to explore and implement new sustainability solutions. We are serious about conducting business in a way that protects and improves the state of the environment. We are committed to reducing our own environmental footprint, and we do so by improving energy efficiency, using resources responsibly, and reducing waste.

Surrounding landscape is often an integral part of a historic property. During the course of construction, care is taken not to damage the landscape – designed or natural – even when major physical intervention is required.

Of particular concern in the southwest is the threat of fire. Prepping our properties to be more fire resilient is an important step. We ensure adequate fire detection or suppression systems are in place and there is easy access for fire fighters. 

We employ simple fuel reduction techniques -- mowing the grass around a property, thinning out dense trees and removing underbrush. 

In addition, we focus on fire resistant native plants with high wildlife value. For our purposes, fire-resistant plants are those that do not readily ignite from a flame or other ignition sources. They can be damaged or even killed by fire; however, the leaves and stems do not significantly contribute to the fuel and, therefore, a fire’s intensity.

In rural areas, when practical, prescribed burns are implemented, and fire breaks are constructed in order to suppress the spread of possible fire and eliminate or reduce any property damage.