Method Homes, a Seattle manufacturer of architect-designed, sustainably-built prefab housing, recently assembled its first prefab, green cabin in Deming, near Mt. Baker late last month. Professional photographers and videographers documented the event using time-lapse footage.
The five modules were set using a large crane, while the roof and connections will be completed the following day. The house was fully furnished in two weeks, and open house and private tours will commence in Mid June. The house will be available as a vacation rental for those who want to rent before they buy.
Method Homes has done everything possible to insure that the construction process and its finished homes are sustainable. The firm’s contemporary design approach utilizes locally grown and produced building materials such as FSC certified Douglas fir framing material, reclaimed fir trim and cedar siding, as well as energy-efficient lighting and plumbing fixtures, hydronic radiant heating, whole- house ventilation systems, solar options and enhanced insulation applications.
Construction in the Company’s controlled-environment facility results in a faster build-out and a more efficient one — with up to 50 percent less waste of building materials in the construction process. By building in a factory, Method’s crews cut down on trips made to the site by delivery vehicles and subcontractors, thus minimizing impact to the environment.
Method Homes co-founder Mark Rylant positions the Company’s mission within the context of advances in home building technology and modern architectural innovation. “With the changes that have taken place in building materials technology over the last five years, constructing a high-design, prefabricated home has become possible,” he stated. “Not only can we offer an architect-designed home, Method can also offer it with all of the technology and innovation that consumers are quickly demanding. The result is better health, better living and less impact on our environment.”
The company sees itself as part of a rapidly growing trend moving away from overpriced, oversized houses in the suburbs toward smart development: affordable, efficient spaces built to respect the natural environment.
Method’s first prefab model, The Method Cabin, is the work of the highly respected Seattle architectural firm Balance Associates, which has established itself as a leader in design of contemporary second homes. According to Principal Architect Tom Lenchek, “We design for sustainability and energy efficiency, balancing the desire for an architecturally sophisticated home.”
Method Homes’ product partners include Kliptech Ecotop counter tops, Bamboo Hardwoods cabinets and flooring, Yolo Colorhouse paints, Timber Pro Coatings exterior stain, Sierra Pacific Windows and Warmboard radiant sub floor.
For more information, visit, www.methodhomes.net.
