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Mela Breen

Mela Breen, LEED AP, is the co-founder and lead designer at Atmosphere Design Build, a small northern California firm focused on handcrafted, high performance buildings.

Why Do Most Passive House Projects Use European Windows?

October 16, 2018

Finding high-performance windows that look good, work well, and fit the budget can be a challenge
On the Way to Net Zero

September 12, 2018

Renewables are part of the strategy, but conservation comes first
Start With a Steel Deck

July 11, 2018

Atop the foundation of steel and concrete is a metal pan deck supporting a 4-in. poured-concrete slab.
Footings Are Dug

July 9, 2018

The big excavator has done its job.
Moving Bedrock: The Egg Drop

July 9, 2018

If we can't dig it out, we've got to break it up somehow.
Supersize Me: The Cat 330

July 9, 2018

Big rocks require big machines.
Encountering the Batholith

July 9, 2018

Just how rocky is this site?
Efficient, Strong Framing

July 6, 2018

California 2018: A powerful emphasis on advanced framing techniques for a passive house.
The Ultimate Modern Home

July 6, 2018

California 2018: High design and high performance in the Sierra foothills.