Venice Architect’s Home Greenest in Venice

A recently remodeled 1912 craftsman cottage is the most sustainable house in Venice and among the top 10 in California, according to LEED, a green certification system.

The home, located at 539 Brooks Street, is a LEED platinum building, receiving 109 points – more than any other house currently in Venice, according to the architect. LEED certification is a point-based rating system that provides designers with a framework for sustainable architecture.

“This house is about 54 percent more energy efficient than what’s required by the state,” said Isabelle Duvivier, the home’s owner and architect. “I have lived in a lot of rental properties in Venice and have helped a lot of clients build their homes. This was my opportunity to do something for me.”

Many materials used for construction were recycled from the old home, such as the original 2x4s in the walls that became part of an open bookshelf and staircase. In addition, the approximately 2,000-square-foot house features many of the typical amenities often found in green buildings – solar panels, a storm water collection system and a native drought-tolerant garden.