Business Details
Sustainable Architecture & Zero Net Energy Design in Davis, CA
Indigo-Hammond & Playle Architects has pioneered sustainable architecture for over five decades, establishing itself as a leader in zero net energy (ZNE) design and ecological innovation. Founded on principles of environmental stewardship, our firm integrates passive solar strategies, natural ventilation, and renewable materials to create buildings that harmonize with their surroundings. We hold the distinction of being the original ZNE architects, having designed the first ZNE office building in Northern California and earning the Passive Solar Pioneer Award for our groundbreaking work. Our portfolio spans public safety facilities, animal shelters, residential projects, and civic spaces, all reflecting our commitment to bioregional design that respects local climate, culture, and ecology. As LEED-accredited professionals, we prioritize energy efficiency without compromising aesthetic beauty or functional integrity, ensuring spaces that are both inspiring and resilient.Our collaborative approach involves clients and communities in the design process, tailoring solutions to meet specific needs while advancing climate-adapted architecture. Recognized with accolades such as the American Public Works Association Structures Award and the Solar Pioneer Award, we continue to push boundaries in sustainable design. Our expertise extends to fire-resilient construction, straw bale building techniques, and passive survivability strategies that ensure buildings remain functional during emergencies. With a team of ten dedicated professionals, we blend decades of experience with fresh perspectives to deliver innovative, cost-effective solutions. Our mission remains unwavering: to create a built environment that serves people, animals, and the planet for generations to come.
Services
Zero Net Energy Design
LEED Certification
Fire Resilient Buildings
Straw Bale Construction
Natural Ventilation Systems
Highlights and features
- We are the original ZNE architects with over 50 years of pioneering experience.
- Our designs integrate LEED-certified standards and passive solar strategies.
- We specialize in fire-resilient buildings for Western U.S. climates.
- Our natural ventilation systems reduce energy use and improve indoor air quality.
- We pioneered modern straw bale construction techniques in North America.
Services
Zero Net Energy Design
Our zero net energy designs create buildings that produce as much energy as they consume annually. Using passive solar strategies, thermal mass, and renewable materials, we reduce reliance on mechanical systems while maintaining comfort. Clients benefit from lower utility costs and reduced carbon footprints through innovative daylighting, natural ventilation, and energy-efficient construction techniques.
Fire Resilient Buildings
We design fire-resilient structures tailored to Western U.S. climates using non-combustible materials and defensible space planning. Our approach combines passive survivability principles with modern engineering to protect occupants and property during wildfires while maintaining aesthetic integration with natural surroundings.
Straw Bale Construction
Straw bale construction provides superior insulation and sustainability using agricultural waste products. We incorporate this technique into public and private projects, offering energy-efficient, durable structures that meet modern building codes while maintaining the timeless appeal of natural materials.
Natural Ventilation Systems
Our natural ventilation designs improve indoor air quality and reduce energy consumption by harnessing wind and thermal buoyancy. Strategically placed windows, skylights, and airflow channels create comfortable environments without mechanical HVAC systems, particularly effective in reducing virus transmission risks.
LEED Certification
We guide projects through LEED certification by integrating sustainable practices in site selection, water efficiency, and material sourcing. Our expertise ensures buildings meet rigorous environmental standards while optimizing occupant well-being and operational efficiency through proven green building methodologies.
People
Jon Hammond
Principal Architect
Jon Hammond co-founded Indigo-Hammond & Playle Architects and built one of North America's first modern straw bale structures in the 1980s. With five decades of experience in passive solar design, he leads the firm's innovation in fire-resilient and zero net energy buildings.
Questions
What is zero net energy (ZNE) design?
ZNE buildings produce as much energy as they consume annually through solar panels, passive design, and energy-efficient systems. We optimize natural light, ventilation, and thermal mass to minimize energy demands before adding renewable energy sources.
How do your fire-resilient buildings differ from standard construction?
We use non-combustible materials, create defensible spaces, and incorporate passive survivability features that maintain habitability during power outages. Our designs address Western U.S. wildfire risks while maintaining aesthetic and ecological harmony.
Can straw bale construction meet modern building codes?
Yes. We've refined straw bale techniques since the 1980s to meet current safety standards while providing exceptional insulation. Our public safety buildings and animal shelters demonstrate this material's viability in commercial applications.
How does natural ventilation improve building safety?
Natural airflow reduces virus transmission risks by diluting indoor contaminants. Our designs use operable windows, thermal chimneys, and strategic placement to maintain fresh air circulation without mechanical systems, enhancing both health and energy efficiency.
What regions do you serve?
While based in Davis, California, we work throughout California including Sacramento, the Bay Area, and Central Valley, as well as the broader Western United States region for public and private sector clients.
Reviews (1)
Dina Connor Owens
Aug 05, 2020
Report
Positive:Professionalism,Quality,Responsiveness,Value
Not only are they highly experienced zero-net energy architects, they are now leading the charge on Fire Resistant home design for those affected by wildfires.
Not only are they highly experienced zero-net energy architects, they are now leading the charge on Fire Resistant home design for those affected by wildfires.
