Marilyn Scaff – Pavement to Paradise Gardens

This is a remarkable transformation of a 1940s bungalow’s lifeless pavement driveway into a thriving, sustainable oasis. Marilyn’s dedication to creating garden spaces around her home, complete with 17 trees, recycled planters, solar fountains, and raised beds, exemplifies her commitment to carbon sequestration, self-sufficiency, wildlife conservation, and community resilience. Her project showcases the potential to reclaim paved areas without electricity or herbicides, emphasizing water-wise practices and sustainable gardening techniques. Beyond the garden’s beauty and environmental benefits, Marilyn’s work serves as a testament to the importance of local living and building resilient communities in the face of complex global challenges.

*Chip Grubbs from CALBG will be on site to help answer questions about native landscaping at this home!

Ann Taves and Ray Paloutzian – A Pilgrim Place Eco-Home

Ann and Ray’s 1952 Ranch, located in Pilgrim Place, underwent a comprehensive sustainability-focused remodel after their purchase in August 2021. Collaborating with Pilgrim Place’s Building and Grounds team, the couple aimed to transform their home into an energy-efficient, all-electric haven. The extensive renovations included new electrical wiring, energy-efficient TruDefinition® DURATION® COOL shingles for the roof, a Trane XV19 variable speed heat pump for heating and cooling, an electric heat pump water heater, and a Frigidaire Gallery Induction stove. They even opted for a solar/wind-powered clothesline instead of a gas dryer and upgraded their garage for a Level 2 charger for their 2023 Chevy Bolt. Additionally, Ann took the initiative to revamp the landscaping, incorporating rainwater conservation measures, pathways, and native, drought-tolerant plants. This ongoing project showcases their commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency in their 1,200 sq. ft. home.

Ross Pringle & Sarah Budischak – Energy, Water and Active Transportation

This home exemplifies a commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency. In terms of energy, the house has undergone significant upgrades, including the addition of loose cellulose insulation in the attic, a 5.2 kW solar panel system with REC panels and Enphase inverters, a reflective shingle roof, and a Carrier HVAC 5-stage heat pump that replaced a gas furnace and AC. Furthermore, the transition to an electric induction range, LED/CFL lighting, and point-of-use electric tankless water heaters in the kitchen and master bath reduced energy consumption. Ross also adopted water-saving practices, such as drip irrigation, native drought-tolerant landscaping, dual flush toilets, and water-saving fixtures in the master bath, showcasing a holistic approach to sustainability in both energy and water conservation at his residence.

*Active SGV will be on site with e-bike test rides at this home!

Tim Byers & Wendy Gamber: A Cozy Home Powered by the Sun

This home underwent a comprehensive sustainability transformation, addressing issues related to temperature control, insulation, and energy efficiency. Tim and Wendy began by improving air sealing and insulating the building envelope, sealing cracks and gaps, and boosting attic insulation. They also replaced the HVAC system with a high-efficiency ducted heat pump, designed for balanced airflow and equipped with advanced air filtration. Windows and doors were weather-stripped, and energy-efficient appliances were introduced, including an electric induction range and a heat pump water heater, ultimately transitioning the home to an all-electric setup. The yard and garden received eco-friendly upgrades, with the removal of water-intensive plants and the introduction of California native plants, fruit trees, and composting practices. Although there were lessons learned along the way, this home’s sustainability journey showcases a holistic approach to reducing energy consumption and promoting environmental responsibility. Future plans include adopting low-flow fixtures and optimizing rainwater utilization.

Ron Mittino–ADU, Electrification and Nonno’s Farm

This home on Princeton Ave., originally constructed in 1958, has undergone several transformations, mirroring the evolving values of its owners. Initially situated on a .41-acre plot near train tracks, it featured two garages and an accessory dwelling unit. Subsequent owners, with ties to Disneyland’s landscapers, expanded the property, introducing over 10,000 square feet of lush lawns, pine trees for noise and view screening, and an irrigation system. The current owner, in alignment with changing values, undertook a makeover emphasizing water-wise landscaping, including vegetable beds, olive trees, a mini vineyard, a chicken coop, a storage barn, and a play area. The house itself boasts energy-efficient upgrades, such as heat pumps, a tankless water heater, dual-pane windows, insulation, and solar panels. The overarching goal of these changes is to offer a living example of addressing climate change while embracing the beauty of nature, especially for children, as seen in “Nonno’s Farm.”