Marilyn Hempel – 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 – 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!

Diana Dykstra–Energy Independent Modern Abode!

This home boasts an impressive commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency. Equipped with solar panels and two Tesla batteries, the homeowner has achieved remarkable energy independence, with a monthly electric bill consistently below $40. The landscape further reflects eco-conscious choices, featuring drought-tolerant plants and an efficient water-wise drip system that ensures responsible water use for all the plants, minimizing water wastage. Although vegetable planters with a drip system were installed, they weren’t utilized this year, but the home’s overall sustainability efforts shine through its reduced reliance on traditional energy sources and water conservation practices.