Business Details
Sustainable Architecture Experts in Ridgefield, CT
Trillium Architects is a Ridgefield, Connecticut-based boutique architectural firm dedicated to designing sustainable, energy-efficient homes that harmonize with the environment. Our expertise spans Passive House, Net Zero, and off-the-grid projects, emphasizing beauty, functionality, and health. We collaborate closely with clients to create bespoke spaces that reflect their values while prioritizing non-toxic materials and energy independence.With a focus on reducing environmental impact, our homes achieve remarkable efficiency, often costing just $30 monthly to operate. As an employee-owned cooperative, we maintain a client-centric approach, combining technical excellence with creative problem-solving to deliver spaces that enhance daily living and endure for generations.
Services
New Homes
Additions + Deep Energy Retrofits
Commercial Architecture
Multifamily Projects
Sustainable Design Consultation
Highlights and features
- We specialize in LEED, Passive House, and Net Zero-certified designs.
- Our homes use non-toxic materials and cost ~$30/month to operate.
- Employee-owned cooperative ensures client-focused, ethical service.
- Proven expertise in deep energy retrofits and multifamily sustainability.
- Team combines technical precision with creative, nature-integrated solutions.
What people say
Breathtaking design
Energy costs reduced
Responsive team
Sustainable values upheld
Creative problem-solving
Services
New Homes
Designing bespoke, sustainable homes tailored to client preferences and environmental harmony. Our new homes integrate Passive House and Net Zero standards, ensuring energy efficiency, comfort, and durability while minimizing ecological footprints through advanced materials and construction techniques.
Additions + Deep Energy Retrofits
Transforming existing structures into energy-efficient, functional spaces without compromising character. We specialize in seamless additions and comprehensive retrofits that enhance sustainability, reduce operational costs, and modernize aesthetics while preserving architectural integrity and historical value.
Commercial Architecture
Creating innovative commercial environments for offices, retail, and specialty spaces like yoga studios. Our designs prioritize sustainability, workflow efficiency, and brand identity, ensuring spaces that inspire productivity and align with eco-conscious business practices.
Multifamily Projects
Developing sustainable multifamily housing solutions in partnership with eco-focused developers. Our projects emphasize affordability, energy independence, and healthy living conditions, promoting accessible green living for diverse communities through Net Zero and Passive House frameworks.
Sustainable Design Consultation
Providing expert guidance on achieving LEED, Passive House, and Net Zero certifications. We advise on material selection, energy systems, and construction practices to optimize environmental performance, reduce long-term costs, and ensure compliance with rigorous sustainability standards.
People
Elizabeth DiSalvo
Principal, Founder, CVO, Owner
Elizabeth founded Trillium Architects with a vision for ethical, sustainable design. She leads projects with technical precision and creative innovation, ensuring client goals align with environmental stewardship. Her expertise in green building standards shapes the firm's mission.
Dave Reilly
Senior Architect, Director of Production, Owner
Dave oversees production, ensuring meticulous execution of Trillium's designs. With deep knowledge of energy-efficient construction, he bridges technical rigor and artistic vision, delivering projects that balance functionality, sustainability, and aesthetic excellence.
Megan DuBois Loucas
Director of Design, Owner
Megan leads design initiatives, focusing on creating spaces that harmonize with nature. Her approach blends creativity with practicality, ensuring each project reflects client values while advancing Trillium's commitment to healthy, toxin-free environments.
Questions
What architectural styles do you specialize in?
We focus on sustainable designs, including Passive House, Net Zero, and LEED-certified homes. Our approach tailors each project to client preferences while prioritizing environmental harmony and energy efficiency.
Do you work on commercial projects?
Yes, we design eco-friendly commercial spaces like offices, retail shops, and yoga studios. Our solutions balance functionality, brand identity, and sustainability to create inspiring, efficient environments.
How do you ensure homes are healthy and toxin-free?
We use non-toxic, low-VOC materials and avoid Red List items. Our designs prioritize indoor air quality, moisture control, and natural light to create safe, allergen-free living spaces.
What areas do you serve?
We primarily serve Fairfield, Litchfield, and Westchester counties, with experience in diverse climates and zoning regulations to deliver tailored sustainable solutions.
Can you retrofit existing homes for energy efficiency?
Yes, our deep energy retrofits modernize older homes, improving insulation, HVAC systems, and renewable energy integration to achieve Net Zero or Passive House standards while preserving architectural character.
Reviews (4)
K. C.
Dec 15, 2019
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I'm writing a review from the other side of the fence...As a former member of the design team at Trillium, I know from experience that this firm's commitment to sustainable building and superlative client relationships is the real deal, and it permeates the firm culture from the top down. I was proud to be part of this team!
Bob Schloss
Nov 26, 2019
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Trillium Architects took on the demanding task of preparing an architectural plan to take a dilapidated home in Ossining NY and convert it into a medium sized certified Passive House with particular facilities for aging in place for our family, using resources largely available from local sources in the lower Hudson Valley, and with a limited budget, and ready to have a green roof as well as photovoltaic solar panels. The work started in December 2017, a design complete enough to be priced by two builders was prepared, a builder started work in October 2018, and they are providing assistance each
Jeremy Klein
Oct 03, 2019
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As an insulation contractor who worked on many of Trillium's projects, we've always found Elizabeth and her team a pleasure to work with. Her blueprints were detailed and her plan to tackle the thermal envelope is always thoughtful with a focus on practicality, longevity with a touch of uniqueness. It's clear that Trillium takes great pride in their work and goes the extra mile to ensure that not only her clients, but also the contractor and subcontractors working on her project have a clear and effective vision to work off with. As an insulation contractor, we wish more architects were like Trillium
Lorraine Anastasio
Sep 01, 2019
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We chose Trillium for extensive renovations and are thrilled with the transformation to a 'beach house modern' home that maximizes the beauty of our waterfront property. Elizabeth and her team took every opportunity to make the house more energy efficient, and there is no wasted space. They were as attentive to details as to the big picture, astoundingly creative, and a pleasure to work with. They even created a gorgeous piano practice space that is acoustically fit for professional recordings and doubles as a guest room.
