Business Details
50 Years
experience
Sustainable & Solar Architecture Design Services
David Wright, Architect has been a pioneer in passive solar and sustainable architecture since 1976, specializing in environmentally responsible residential and commercial design. With over 400 custom projects across the U.S., including award-winning homes and institutional buildings, the firm combines functional artistry with cutting-edge technologies like structural insulated panels (SIPs) and solar energy systems. David Wright, a NCARB-certified architect licensed in six states, has authored three influential books on climate-responsive design and earned international recognition for his work. The firms approach emphasizes site-specific solutions, energy efficiency, and fire-resistant construction, serving clients in California, Nevada, and beyond.Backed by decades of experience and a network of engineering consultants, the team delivers projects that harmonize with natural environments while meeting rigorous building codes. Client testimonials highlight the firms collaborative process, attention to detail, and ability to transform complex sites into functional, aesthetically pleasing spaces. Recognized in publications like Dwell Magazine and Sunset, the practice continues to lead in sustainable design innovation.
Services
Custom Home Design
Passive Solar Architecture
Sustainable Building
Fire-Resistant Construction
SIPs Integration
Details
- Year established: 1976
Highlights and features
- We have over 40 years of experience in passive solar and sustainable architecture.
- Our designs prioritize energy efficiency, fire resistance, and climate-responsive construction.
- We utilize structural insulated panels (SIPs) for superior thermal performance.
- Our work has been published in Dwell Magazine, Sunset, and National Geographic.
- We offer tailored solutions for challenging sites, including mountainous and wildfire-prone areas.
Associations and certifications
- NCARB
What people say
Energy-efficient designs
Exceptional communication
Fire-resistant materials
Climate-responsive solutions
Aesthetic integration
Services
Custom Home Design
We create bespoke homes tailored to clients lifestyles and challenging sites. Our designs integrate passive solar principles, fire-resistant materials, and SIPs for energy efficiency. Each project emphasizes natural light, thermal comfort, and seamless indoor-outdoor living while meeting strict building codes.
Passive Solar Architecture
Our passive solar approach optimizes building orientation, insulation, and thermal mass to reduce energy use. Weve pioneered techniques for diverse climates, ensuring homes heat and cool themselves naturally while maintaining aesthetic appeal and structural integrity.
Sustainable Building
We prioritize eco-friendly materials and systems, including solar panels, rainwater harvesting, and non-toxic finishes. Our projects minimize environmental impact through energy efficiency, durability, and integration with local ecosystems, setting benchmarks for sustainable living.
Fire-Resistant Construction
We design fireproof structures using metal roofing, concrete, and SIPs. Our expertise in wildfire-prone areas ensures homes survive extreme conditions while maintaining comfort and aesthetic value, as proven by structures surviving the Park Fire in 2024.
SIPs Integration
We specialize in structural insulated panels (SIPs) for superior insulation and strength. This method reduces construction waste, speeds up builds, and enhances energy efficiency, creating airtight, durable homes that perform exceptionally in extreme climates.
People
David Wright
Senior Architect
David Wright is a NCARB-certified architect with 40+ years of experience in passive solar design. He has authored three books, received national awards, and designed 400+ sustainable projects. His work focuses on climate-responsive architecture and fire-resistant construction.
Catherine Wright
Office Manager
Catherine Wright has managed business operations for over 35 years, overseeing billing and administrative decisions. She collaborates closely with her husband, David, to ensure the firms financial and operational efficiency.
Megan Wright Matthews
Structural Engineer
Megan is a licensed structural engineer with expertise in green building technologies. She contributes to architectural design and 3D modeling, combining technical precision with aesthetic innovation as a principal partner in Wright Architecture.
Heather Wright Foye
Licensed Architect
Heather Wright Foye specializes in architectural planning and interior design. She emphasizes budget-conscious, timely project delivery while maintaining aesthetic integrity, working alongside her sister Megan in Wright Architecture.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialize in?
We specialize in passive solar and sustainable architecture, including custom homes, fire-resistant construction, and SIPs integration for energy efficiency.
Do you work outside California?
Yes, we serve clients in Nevada and have completed projects nationwide, adapting designs to diverse climates and building codes.
How do you incorporate sustainability into your designs?
We use solar energy systems, SIPs, rainwater harvesting, and non-toxic materials to minimize environmental impact while maximizing energy efficiency.
Can you modify existing house plans?
Yes, we offer customizable pre-designed plans and can modify them to suit your site, budget, and aesthetic preferences.
What sets your firm apart from other architects?
Our 40+ years of expertise in passive solar design, fire-resistant construction, and climate-responsive solutions ensure durable, innovative, and aesthetically pleasing projects.