Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Sustainable Green Home Design & Architecture in Houston
Environment Associates Architects & Consultants has been a leader in sustainable architecture and green home design since 1975. Founded by LaVerne Williams, AIA, LEED AP, we pioneered the green building movement in Texas through innovative projects like Houston's Passive Solar Demonstration Home. Our holistic approach to design significantly lowers living costs while delivering energy-efficient, healthful environments that thrive during extreme weather. With over four decades of experience, we specialize in creating high-performance homes that combine superior energy efficiency, low-maintenance durability, and eco-friendly construction practices.Our work has earned prestigious awards including LEED Platinum certification and recognition at the 1992 Earth Summit. We maintain strict ethical standards by avoiding conflicts of interest through our policy of not selling building products or accepting commissions. Our team of certified professionals brings extensive expertise in master planning, site analysis, and construction documentation to every project, ensuring clients receive authoritative, trustworthy solutions for sustainable living.
Services
Green Home Design
LEED Certification
Energy-Efficient Remodeling
Sustainable Architecture
Design Consulting
Details
- Year established: 1975
Highlights and features
- 40+ years pioneering sustainable architecture in Texas
- First Houston firm to complete LEED Platinum certified project
- Holistic design approach reduces living costs by 30-50%
- Specialists in passive solar design and net-zero energy homes
- Ethical practice with no product commissions or conflicts of interest
Associations and certifications
- LEED AP
- LEED Platinum
Services
Green Home Design
Our green home design service creates energy-efficient living spaces that reduce utility costs by 30-50% while maintaining environmental responsibility. We integrate passive solar strategies, healthy materials, and climate-appropriate construction methods. Clients benefit from lower maintenance costs and improved indoor air quality through our proven design process.
LEED Certification
We guide clients through LEED certification for residential and commercial buildings, ensuring compliance with the highest sustainability standards. Our expertise includes documentation preparation, energy modeling, and material selection. We've completed the first LEED Platinum project in Houston and multiple award-winning certified homes across Texas.
Energy-Efficient Remodeling
Our remodeling services transform existing homes into high-performance living spaces through strategic upgrades. We implement insulation improvements, HVAC optimization, and renewable energy integration while maintaining structural integrity. Clients achieve significant energy savings without compromising comfort or aesthetics in their renovated spaces.
Sustainable Architecture
We specialize in designing buildings that minimize environmental impact while maximizing occupant comfort. Our approach combines passive design principles with advanced building science to create structures that perform optimally in Texas' climate. Services include site analysis, material selection, and construction oversight for residential and light commercial projects.
Design Consulting
Our consulting services provide expert guidance for green building projects at any stage. We offer feasibility studies, second opinions, and technical advice on sustainable construction methods. Clients receive tailored solutions for energy efficiency, indoor environmental quality, and cost-effective implementation of green technologies.
People
LaVerne A. Williams
Founder & CEO
AIA and LEED AP certified architect with 40+ years pioneering sustainable design in Texas. Developed Houston's first green building project and influenced national green building programs. Recognized with multiple industry awards for environmental leadership.
Jan Wheeler
Office Administrator
Manages daily operations and client communications with 15+ years of experience supporting architectural projects. Ensures smooth coordination between clients and design teams for efficient project delivery.
Richard Rivera
LEED AP
Architect with dual degrees in architecture and engineering. Specializes in technical design solutions for sustainable buildings. Provides expertise in energy modeling and construction documentation for high-performance homes.
Juan J. Hron
Architect
BFA in Interior Design and BS in Architecture graduate. Focuses on integrating aesthetic and functional elements in sustainable residential projects. Brings creative solutions to space planning and material selection for eco-friendly interiors.
Maria Gonzalez
Architect
Dual degree holder in Architecture and Environmental Design. Specializes in climate-responsive design strategies and sustainable material applications. Contributes technical expertise to both residential and commercial green building projects.
Questions
What makes Environment Associates different from other architectural firms?
We specialize exclusively in sustainable design with 40+ years of Texas-specific experience. Our team includes LEED Platinum-certified architects who pioneered green building in Texas.
Do you work on projects outside Texas?
While based in Houston, we serve clients across Texas and beyond, applying our expertise in climate-appropriate sustainable design to diverse geographic locations.
Can you help with LEED certification for existing homes?
Yes, we offer LEED certification services for both new construction and existing home renovations through tailored retrofitting strategies.
What service levels do you offer?
We provide four service levels from hourly consulting to full design and construction oversight, accommodating various project needs and budgets.
How do your designs reduce living costs?
Our passive solar designs and energy-efficient systems typically reduce utility bills by 30-50% while maintaining superior comfort and indoor air quality.
Do you work with Habitat for Humanity?
Yes, our sustainable design principles have influenced Habitat for Humanity projects in Houston through collaborative studies and material selection guidance.
