EHB Home Builders Lead in Sustainable Construction

(EHB) Evolutionary Home Builders Advances View of Sustainable Building with Accomplishments in 2014

CHICAGO (Jan. 22, 2015) – Chicago-based, high-performance homebuilder EHB (or Evolutionary Home Builders) celebrated a highly successful 2014. This marked a significant milestone in its journey towards redefining eco-friendly construction.

In addition to the successful projects completed throughout the year, the company undertook a comprehensive rebranding initiative. This not only revitalized its image but also showcased its commitment to sustainability. As a result, it earned multiple prestigious awards in the process.

EHB led pioneering initiatives that set new standards in the building industry. For example, it constructed the country’s first hybrid Passive House and Living Building Challenge certified home. This exemplified its innovative approach to energy efficiency and sustainability.

Moreover, the company proudly installed Illinois’ first DOW POWERHOUSE™ Solar Shingle. This further distinguished itself as a front-runner in renewable energy solutions.

As a result, EHB gained national recognition as a leader in sustainability. The company attracted attention from industry experts and eco-conscious consumers alike.

Led by Founder Brandon Weiss, EHB had a monumental year. It was characterized by impressive growth and a steadfast commitment to the environment.

It boosted its green building platform while adopting advanced technologies and sustainable materials.

The firm focused on sharing its invaluable expertise through cutting-edge projects, educational seminars, and community events. Ultimately, it aimed to inspire others to embrace a more sustainable lifestyle. Thus, the firm paved the way for a brighter, greener future.

DOW Evolutionary Home Builders

“We recognized a need to reposition our brand in a way that completely reflects our full capabilities and services, hence our name change to Evolutionary Home Builders,” notes EHB Founder Brandon Weiss. “Our full-circle healthy living mantra was further enhanced through the range of our projects and awards this year which looked beyond just building homes.”

EHB Home Builders

EHB changed its name from Weiss Building & Development LLC to Evolutionary Home Builders. It opened an eco-luxe retail space called “The Evolutionary Home” in Geneva, Illinois. This space invites homeowners and green building enthusiasts to test new eco-friendly products. They can visualize their dream healthy home. EHB delivers high energy efficiency and superior building science. It ensures excellent indoor air quality. The space serves builders, designers, and architects. They can find building materials for every construction phase. EHB vets these materials for sustainability, from foundation to finishes to furnishings.

Green DOT Awards

“We wanted to give homeowners a sneak peek into the level of care and scientific backing that goes into each and every EHB project and reveal ways to adapt to what we see as a new green movement,” notes Weiss. “The retail space also accommodates for EHB to offer furthering education and we look forward to launching a quarterly workshop series at The Evolutionary Home in January, 2015.”

A modern house with large windows and solar panels, set against a sunset backdrop and surrounded by greenery.
A stunning eco-friendly home featuring solar panels, designed for high energy efficiency and sustainability.
The Evolutionary Home (retail space)
The Evolutionary Home (retail space)

To underscore their commitment to building high-performance homes, EHB also expanded their team with three new expert hires: Operations Manager, Jamie Carr, Project Manager, Patrick Danaher, and Eric Barton, Field Operations. Furthermore, EHB’s awards and recognitions also grew. In addition, the company was honored with the 2014 Green Dot Award: 1st Prize in Build Category for “Lema Passive House.” It also received the Crystal Key Award for innovation and creativity in energy efficient building for the firm’s work on The Adaptation Home.

To amplify their passion for building homes that are as durable as they are healthy, sister company, Sustain-A-Building LLC, which was also founded by Weiss, became the first company in the state of Illinois certified to install the DOW POWERHOUSE™ Solar Shingle, an award-winning residential solar roofing system. The installation was made in a home in Naperville, Ill. Consequently, Illinois joins 18 other states in which the product is now available.

Weiss from EHB

Inspired by these new advances, Weiss set out to build his dream home. He revolutionizes the idea of Passive House. Currently, he constructs one of the most innovative and healthiest homes in the country, affectionately known as “Über Haus.” This home is the first of its kind. Über Haus is a non-toxic Passive House. It meets the world’s most rigorous energy efficiency and building science standards. Additionally, it seeks both the Living Building Challenge and LEED v4 Platinum certification. It will be the first in Illinois to achieve these accolades.

Serosun Farms: Swainsen's Model Home (built by EHB)
Rendering of Serosun Farms: Swainsen’s Model Home (being built by EHB)

“This year, more than ever, highlights how rewarding it is to blend work with personal life,” notes Weiss. “Creating a healthy home for my family fuels my passion and inspires fresh ideas for 2015. We are testing many new products and methods in this home. We use it not just as a showcase but also as a living laboratory for our work and data collection.”

Source: Evolutionary Home Builders (http://evolutionaryhomebuilders.com/).

DOW POWERHOUSE™ Solar Shingle (installed by Sustain-A-Building, sister company of EHB, also founded by Brandon Weiss
DOW POWERHOUSE™ Solar Shingle (installed by Sustain-A-Building, sister company of EHB, also founded by Brandon Weiss)