OUR MISSION

The Guild is the first market-rate multifamily development to reach the Phius (Passive House Institute US) Core Design Certification milestone in Somerville.

Passive House is a design and construction standard that was created to achieve the goal for a major reduction in building energy use and carbon emissions. In the last century, common construction processes have led to the release of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases into the Earth's atmosphere, disrupting Earth's energy balance.

According to NASA, scientists have determined that the imbalance of carbon dioxide plays a crucial role in the stability of the atmosphere. If carbon dioxide were removed, the terrestrial greenhouse effect would collapse, and Earth's surface temperature would drop significantly, creating a safer planet and future for all.

The Guild utilizes cross-laminated mass timber, a material that has consistently shown to have lower embodied carbon and greenhouse gas emissions during production, installation, and deconstruction making it a leading choice in green building materials. By doing so, we promote better long-term effects for the planet, while ensuring durable construction, minimizing equipment needs and providing fundamental building performance.

Additionally, no off-site energy is needed for Phius Core standard performance, relying instead on renewable energy sources, one being our solar panels. With an all electric design, no fossil fuels are burned, dramatically reducing the amount of carbon dioxide being released.

This building design also benefits residents by drastically reducing energy costs, improving indoor air quality, increasing natural lighting and promoting quieter acoustic conditions.