Southwest Michigan
2,300 sq. ft.
2 bedroom/2.5 bath home
The Innovative Project Award is designed to honor projects that break the mold of standard building construction, design, and operations. The projects in question exemplify innovation and astute practices that reflect the goals of the U.S. Green Building Council of West Michigan (USGBC-WM)’s programs. The Innovative Project winner this year was chosen in a close vote between our Board of Directors and Staff. The USGBC-WM was excited to announce Abueva Builders as the third-place winner for their Lakeside net zero Passive House.
The Lakeside Net Zero Passive House is a groundbreaking project that redefines modern living with an unwavering commitment to environmental responsibility. The homeowner is a lifelong resident of SW Michigan. Frustrated with the limitations of attempting to upgrade the energy efficiency of a 1950’s era ranch home, this environmentalist decided to “do it right” and build an energy-efficient and eco-friendly dream home. After much research, the decision was made to pursue a “net zero home”, meaning the house will generate all the clean renewable energy on-site to power itself year-round.
The primary architect for this project, Mark A. Miller, previously held the role of Executive Director of the Passive House Alliance US and formed a relationship with the Green Home Institute (GHI). When it came time to find a local green builder, GHI provided a short list of candidates. On this list was Paul Abueva of Abueva Construction in Kalamazoo, who had just built his own high-performance home using a similar double stud wall technique. he team knew they had found the perfect builder to partner with them on this journey.
The home boasts an all-electric design, setting new standards in green building. The heart of this residence is its custom ducted mini-split heat pump system, coupled with a ground loop heat exchanger. This system ensures year-round comfort while drastically reducing energy consumption and carbon footprint. The team was also dedicated to responsible sourcing and repurposing of materials. Salvaged wood from the previous residence was used throughout the home, as well as locally harvested lumber, selected from the building site itself. The Lakeside net zero Passive House also harnesses the power of the sun with a state-of-the-art solar array, complemented by a cutting-edge battery backup storage system. This ensures a reliable and sustainable source of energy, even during adverse weather conditions, reducing reliance on the grid and promoting self-sufficiency.
The 2,300 sq. ft. 2 bedroom/2.5 bath home features a conical-shaped metal roof and a unique basement level garage, which doubles as a a tornado shelter, designed to FEMA specs. The adjacent lake is visible from nearly every area of the home, including a second-floor reading balcony.
Emphasizing the importance of healthy, high-performance green building practices, this project has earned prestigious certifications as Michigan’s first certified net-zero passive house, achieving PHIUS +2018, PHIUS+ Source Zeroand LEED Platinum Certifications.
Interview with Paul Abueva, owner of Abueva Builders:
What does it mean to your organization to achieve net zero? How does this relate to your organization’s mission?
Abueva Builders was founded with the belief that new homes need to go beyond current codes. We strive to be one of the most environmentally conscious builders, not just in our product, but in our process as well. Building exceptionally energy efficient homes is one of our core philosophies and although every home we have built has not been net zero, they have all been zero ready with considerations in their design that would allow for the addition of solar panels to reach that goal. With the recent changes in incentives for solar installations, we expect that the majority of our future projects will all be net zero at the time of build completion.
What does sustainability and sustainable design/construction mean to you?
Sustainable design/construction is about more than just the finished product. True sustainability means that the process of construction and the home’s effects on the environment over the life of its existence are also taken into consideration. We approach all of our projects with that in mind. We spend time during the planning phases to revise the prints to modify dimensions and substitute materials to improve resource efficiency, reduce waste, and improve functionality. We also consider the life cycle of the products in a house. We believe that when we build a house, we expect it to be there for generations to come. Universal design is one way that we ensure that our homes will be accessible to persons of all abilities. Durability is another key factor. Homes designed to be durable with less regular maintenance will last longer. Lastly, we understand that during the life of a home it is inevitable that changes may be made and materials will reach an end of life. Framing the structure in a way where interior load bearing walls are eliminated and exterior load bearing headers are placed so that windows can be modified or walls can be removed serve to future proof a home to an extent. Also choosing materials like metal roofing that can be recycled at their end of life also help ensure that we minimize our impacts on the environment.
How do sustainable design and standard of living overlap?
Measuring a standard of living often includes things like health, education, income, and equality. Site selection for development can help to a degree, but with the homes we build we do not have as much control over this. One thing that our homes do provide is a healthier living environment. Another aspect would be our homes’ reduced impact on the environment and their reduced impact on climate change.
Do you have future plans for similar projects?
This particular project was very architecturally unique. Our typical project is generally simpler while embracing all of the same degree of environmental consciousness, energy efficiency, and universal design. We have already finished another net zero home this year, are in the middle of doing a renovation that will be net zero ready, and have plans in the works for a couple more net zero homes in the coming year.
How has this project impacted the surrounding community?
Due to this project’s location, it is not highly visible. However, it has generated a lot of buzz amongst the partners involved. The homeowner is also a very staunch environmental steward. So among her colleagues and friends she has provided an example of what is possible when you strive to adhere to your values. We are entering this project for more awards, and as the word of mouth continues to circulate, we expect that the project will serve as a shining example of what is possible. Energy efficient, sustainable homes do not need to be cookie cutter boxes.
What does it mean to you to be recognized for this project?
We are very grateful that you have chosen to recognize our project for its innovation. I have been a builder since 2006. In 2015 we completed our first LEED Gold project as a spec to show what was possible when we could incorporate all the design principles we had been trying to preach to others. It took me a long time to finally be building the kind of homes that truly embrace our company philosophy. While we have had other LEED projects in the interim, this one really set the bar in terms of the PHIUS certification. That combined with the very intricate nature of a round house and all of its design challenges, serves as a statement that we can build any home to these high standards.
The USGBC-WM Leadership Awards promote outstanding green building initiatives by recognizing projects, organizations, and people who have made extraordinary contributions to achieving healthy, energy-efficient green buildings in the state of Michigan.
“Michigan is one of the top 5 states for clean energy commitments, number two in the country in drawing down federal funding for climate and clean energy, and number one in the Midwest for clean energy jobs, clean energy growing twice as fast as the overall economy,” said Cheri Holman, Executive Director of USGBC-WM. “These investments by the federal government, concrete action from the state, and the collaboration inside our community has energized me like never before.”
Abueva Builders was honored at our 2023 Annual Party & Leadership Awards Ceremony on December 5, 2023. Hosted by the U.S. Green Building Council of West Michigan, the evening event was held in the Ballroom at the LEED-certified CityFlatsHotel located in downtown Grand Rapids. The program included a keynote address by Dr. Brandy Brown, Chief Innovation Officer of Walker-Miller Energy Services, an Awards Ceremony, and the celebration of this year’s achievements.
The MiGBC Leadership Awards promote outstanding green building initiatives by recognizing projects, organizations, and people who have made extraordinary contributions to achieving healthy, energy-efficient green buildings in the state of Michigan.“We are thrilled to lift up organizations that lead by example,” says Cheri Holman, Executive Director of the MiGBC, “by sharing these accomplishments we can show that good economic decisions and green buildings can be one and the same.”
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Data Management and Research Intern
Viraj is passionate about transforming energy data into actionable insights. At MiGBC, he focuses on Automated Benchmarking Services (ABS), helping businesses track, analyze, and optimize their energy usage effortlessly. With a background in data analytics, automation, and research, he works on streamlining energy reporting, integrating utility data, and enhancing benchmarking efficiency.
Currently pursuing a Master’s in Information Technology & Management, Viraj enjoys simplifying complex datasets and making energy data more accessible and impactful for businesses and communities. His goal is to leverage automation and data-driven strategies to drive sustainability and help organizations make smarter, more efficient energy decisions.
Board of Directors
Principal Supervisor – Energy Partnerships, DTE Energy
Tamika works as a Principal Supervisor for the Energy Waste Reduction team at DTE Energy. She oversees a team of energy managers that work with commercial and industrial building owners and customers in the DTE Energy service area to achieve their energy efficiency goals. Tamika holds a B.S. in Chemical Engineering from the University of Michigan and a M.S. in Engineering Management from Eastern Michigan University. Tamika is also a Certified Energy Manager.
Board of Directors
Attorney, The Business Law Group
Andrew earned a Bachelor of Arts in History from Michigan State University and a law degree from Cooley Law School. Andrew is an attorney with an extensive background in civil litigation, business matters, franchise law, sports and entertainment law, and landlord-tenant matters. He has helped dozens of businesses and individuals with a variety of issues from starting up a new business venture to collecting debts to contract drafting and negotiations to general counsel to drafting and reviewing franchise agreements to evictions.
Board of Directors
Area General Manager, West Michigan Trane
Jeff joined Trane in 2007 in Madison as operations leader for a territory covering the state of Wisconsin and the western half of the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Over the next ten years, he went through a progression of roles and expanding leadership responsibilities culminating as head of construction for a territory covering the Dakotas, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and parts of 5 other states. In 2017, he relocated to West Michigan and started leading the customer facing efforts in supporting the needs of communities with their indoor environmental needs from supporting sustainable designs to maintaining performance of the buildings.
Board of Directors
Building Commissioning Specialist, Western Michigan University
DeVon Miller is the Building Commissioning Specialist at Western Michigan University. DeVon has over 8 years of experience in Facilities Management, over 15 years of experience in project management including energy conservation, building automation systems, building commissioning, and is a Building Commissioning Professional and LEED Accredited Professional with ASHRAE and Green Building Certification Institute (GBCI) respectively. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from Michigan Technological University.
Board of Directors
Retired, Steelcase
An accomplished speaker on sustainability, operations environmental performance, and environmental strategies David educates and inspires community, customers, and business influencers through numerous board and community activities, national conferences, and educational events. David has a Bachelor’s in Microbiology and Public Health from Michigan State University and a Master’s in Management from Aquinas College. David participated as a member of the foundation committee that formed the West Michigan Chapter.
Board of Directors
Director of Business Development, Michigan Women Forward
Armed with a heart dedicated to service and a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from Cornerstone University, Ana Jose strives to be an advocate for those without a voice. Born and raised in a small Dominican province called Ingenio Consuelo, Ana’s roots are reflected through her work with the community. During her four years with Bethany Christian Services, she developed programs to secure housing for youth from overseas, specifically those from Central America. Ana’s ability to create and implement effective programming has allowed her to seamlessly step into the role of Program Manager at the West Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. The initiative that Ana will continue to grow and improve is called Transformando West Michigan, which focuses on Hispanic business owners that have the desire to gain knowledge and experience in differing fields, such as financial education or food safety certification. Her personal goal for the program is to facilitate opportunities for growth within Hispanic businesses. As a business owner herself, Ana operated West Michigan Mortgage and Financial Services (2004), in which she found great success helping people to understand the value of homeownership, which allowed her to become instrumental in helping families secure FHA loans. She has also created programs to help families improve their credit and secure properties in the city of Grand Rapids. Ana graduated from the Latino Talent Program at Ferris State University in 2015 and finds inspiration from the local community, her family, and Hispanic culture. She enjoys spending time with her husband and children and strives to be a good mom, daughter, and friend.
Board of Directors – Secretary
Manager of Product Innovation, Consumer’s Energy
As Manager of Product Innovation for Consumers Energy, Lisa leads a portfolio of pilots and research projects to explore and test potential new products for the utility’s business customers. This work looks at emerging technology, civic partnerships, and programs that offer customers solutions in energy efficiency, energy demand-side management, electrification, and renewables, while working to support the company’s Clean Energy Plan. Prior to Consumers, Lisa was Director of Marketing and Communication at the Capital Region Community Foundation and held a variety of customer experience roles at MSU Federal Credit Union. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in English literature from Alma College and a Master of Arts in Strategic Communications from Michigan State University.
Board of Directors – Treasurer
President, Cella Building Company
Peter is president of Cella Building Company, specializing in sustainable new construction and redevelopment of under-utilized properties. Peter has experience in all phases of the development process from site selection through operations. By focusing on the impact on people, planet, and profit; Peter and the Cella Building Company team look to incorporate the principles of the triple bottom line to all projects in which they are involved.
Board of Directors – Vice Chair
Principal / Mechanical Engineer, Ignyte Design
Jon is a Principal at IGNYTE Design and a registered Professional Engineer, licensed in multiple states. He provides expertise in sustainable design and carbon reduction for healthcare, higher education, government, and large commercial clients across the country. He has extensive experience working with facilities management teams to assess existing systems, plan for future capital projects, reduce their carbon footprint, and maximize their return on investment. When Jon isn’t helping clients, he’s spending time outside with his wife Kelly and daughters Adelyn and Amelia. He’s passionate about gardening, woodworking, and classic cars.
Board of Directors – Chair
PE / Associate / Senior Civil Engineer, Fishbeck
Ryan Musch is a Senior Civil Engineer and leads the Site Development Group at Fishbeck. Ryan has over 15 years of experience in Site and Civil Engineering and has focused much of his efforts on Sustainable Design within his Site Development and Civil projects. Ryan has a Bachelor of Science in Engineering from Calvin College, a Masters of Business Administration from Grand Valley State University, and is a LEED Accredited Professional and Sustainable SITES Accredited Professional.
Program Manager, Lansing 2030 District
Audrey (she/her), a lifelong environmentalist, has joined the MiGBC to champion the Emerging Lansing 2030 District. With over 15 years of experience in complex project and program management, Audrey brings a combination of technical expertise and enthusiasm for sustainable solutions.
As a dedicated climate activist, Audrey is committed to addressing pressing environmental challenges through community engagement and informed action. Audrey is a Michigan native with a Masters of Science in Packaging from Michigan State University and enjoys spending time outdoors, participating in endurance sports, and caring for animals.
Communications Manager
Ally (she/her) is our Communications Manager. She is in charge of working on our weekly newsletter, social media presence, website updating, blog, and more! Directly prior to this role she spent five months with us as our Website and Usability Intern. She is a graduate of Michigan State University where she earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design and her Bachelor’s Degree in Comparative Cultures and Politics. She is passionate about combining her skills and love of design with environmental advocacy, as well as learning new ways to better the environment in her daily life.
In her free time she is an avid gardener, bike packer, and Great Lakes visitor. Though on a regular day she can be found spending most of her time with her two cats or taking care of her many houseplants.
Program Manager
Kayla (she/her) is the lead for our programs where she focuses on data management, educational events, and assisting local organizations with energy efficiency initiatives. Before joining MiGBC, Kayla performed energy audits, led internal educational sessions to bridge MEP design with energy efficiency, and collaborated with design engineers on reducing energy loads. She also has 4 years of experience in the brewing industry where she created her own sustainability internship tracking KPIs and implementing waste reduction strategies.
Kayla completed her associate degree at GRCC before transferring to the University of Michigan and graduating with a bachelor’s degree in Economics and Environmental Studies. She is passionate about equitable, energy efficient, and ecologically conscious buildings. In her free time, she enjoys running, gardening, spending time with family, and working on creative projects.
Event & Membership Manager
Wendy (she/her) coordinates our event planning, membership management, tracking & planning program impact and community engagement, as well as sharing in the development of all programs. Wendy is most passionate about mitigating climate change, reducing energy consumption, and environmental conservation.
Wendy comes to MiGBC with fifteen years of account management, event planning, volunteer training, and administrative experience in the non-profit and corporate sectors with a focus on the education environment. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Resource Management and Environmental Studies.
Wendy spent her childhood days on the shores of Lake Superior and is a Yooper at heart. In here spare time she likes to keep active. She has been a long distance runner since middle school, is a certified advanced NAUII scuba diver, practices hot yoga, and loves to spend time exploring nature and traveling.
Executive Director
Cheri (she/her) is a LEED Accredited Professional with extensive experience and a genuine passion for energy & water conservation. Other areas of interest include indoor environmental quality, clean/renewable energy, access to healthy food and all things related to educating and promoting a healthy built environment. Prior to her work in non-profit Cheri spent most of her career consulting & partnering with private sector corporations to reduce resource consumption within their facilities through the implementation of energy conservation technologies and improved operational practices.
Mrs. Holman is a Past Chair of our Board of Directors after serving as Treasurer for 2 years. In early 2008 Cheri founded the LEED for Existing Building Advocacy Group. She served as a subject matter expert for the Green Building Certification Institute (GBCI) LEED for EB Operations and Maintenance test development in 2008 and the Commercial Reviewer exam test development in 2009. In 2010 & 2011 Cheri served as a Greenbuild conference session reviewer.
