A Case for Sustainable Multi-Family Projects: The Laguna Row Story

Brett Farrow on Building, Designing, and Marketing Eco-Friendly Housing Developments that Sell

Photography: Auda & Auda Photography

In the world of modern architecture, where innovation intertwines with environmental consciousness, Brett Farrow stands out as a pioneer. His recent project, Laguna Row – a 13-home urban infill that celebrates natural modern living on a lagoon – epitomizes a deep commitment to sustainable building practices, showcasing the integration of eco-friendly materials and cutting-edge design. The project is not just a structure; it’s a testament to Farrow’s ethos of combining functionality, aesthetics, and sustainability, particularly through his choice of materials like Western Red Cedar.

Farrow’s decision to personally oversee the construction of Laguna Row stemmed from his dedication to maintaining high standards. “I wanted to oversee the building at Laguna Row so that I could keep the quality high and make sure the design detailing came through as I intended,” he explains. This approach not only ensured a seamless translation of his vision into reality but also exemplified best practices in sustainable multi-family housing. By working closely with trades, Farrow ensured a better build and a smoother construction process, setting a standard for future projects.

Green Building for High-quality MultiHousing Projects

In the realm of sustainable materials for multi-housing projects, Farrow emphasizes the crucial role of using all-natural products, especially considering environmental objectives. “Using wood is critical,” he says. “It provides carbon capture and is renewable.” This perspective is crucial in the context of green building certifications for multi-housing, where the choice of materials significantly impacts the environmental footprint.

As Farrow explains, wood also plays an indispensable role is meeting biophilic goals. “There is a subtle but real sense of the natural when cedar is used in a project,” he says. “For example, the daily interaction of simply passing by siding at the entry to home, or noticing it used as a ceiling that creates a brief moment that gives me a quiet appreciation of this natural material that is different than other synthetic materials typically used in construction”.

Farrow’s preference for Real Cedar in his high-performance, well-designed custom homes is a testament to his commitment to eco-friendly siding options for communities. “Western Red Cedar has been my preferred building material for over a decade. It’s versatile, can be used in a variety of applications and is long lasting,” he states, highlighting the material’s durability and ease of maintenance, which are essential in the evolving landscape of wood construction.

Innovative Building Materials for Sustainable Developments

Speaking of evolution, Farrow notes the changes in wood construction since he began in the industry. “Wood construction has evolved, and I’m very interested in the new mass timber systems for larger buildings,” he shares. His interest in innovative design trends in multi-housing aligns with his appreciation for the craft of siding installation, which he views as a blend of traditional knowledge and modern innovation.

For eco-minded clients, Farrow’s advice often leans towards using wood products such as Real Cedar siding. “Going with wood framing and wood siding is an effective way to build when sustainability is the goal,” he advises, reflecting a deep understanding of urban planning and sustainability in housing developments.

Finally, Farrow reflects on how working with wood fuels his creativity and craftsmanship. “Building with wood allows me to draw upon many years of experience to try new ideas and configurations. Wood can both communicate tradition but also allows for improvisation.”