College - Author 1
College of Architecture and Environmental Design
Department - Author 1
Construction Management Department
Degree Name - Author 1
BS in Construction Management
Date
8-2025
Primary Advisor/Subject Matter Expert (SME)
Michael Brennan, College of Architecture and Environmental Design, Construction Management Department
Abstract/Summary
As awareness and technology increase, sustainability as a focus in home construction is also increasing. This case study based research project seeks to understand the process of building a home on California’s Central Coast with sustainability in mind. An interview was conducted with an owner who built their home in Templeton in 2019. The interview was in a semi-structured format which included specific qualitative questions but mostly focused on an open-ended discussion which allowed the owner to share their own experience. The key challenges learned from this interview were that the owner believed price to be the main factor that limited further sustainability goals and that lack of construction knowledge created frustration. However, passive solar techniques and a high-performance building envelope allowed them to minimize heating and cooling costs. The effort by the builder to nurture a relationship with the owner was also stated as a major driver to success and satisfaction with the process. This project can serve as a reference for both owners looking to build their own home someday, and builders looking to improve their understanding of what their clients are looking for in the homebuilding experience.
URL: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/cmsp/904
Poster Board