introducing the catlin keets

Keets are the physical realized form of a conceptual idea: to build better buildings. 

Better means healthy; for occupants, installers, fabricators, craftspeople, and anyone working to harvest and refine raw materials. So often, the materials and practices we employ during construction are seen as necessarily damaging to human health, and at best we strive to protect or reduce harm. But what if the act of building was itself a healthy endeavor that resulted in a final product that contributed towards human physical and emotional well-being?

Better means conscious; of the social and ecological impacts buildings directly and indirectly have on communities local and distant from the building site. The impacts of building are significant, ranging from undercutting the fabric of a community and degrading natural ecosystems to revitalizing neighborhoods, preserving wild space, and eventually returning to the soil. Instead of building less harmful structures, can the act of building be regenerative and positively contribute to the places they touch?

Better means durable; construction, assemblies, materials, and design. Durable structures are lasting; they are resistant to fire and water damage, designed for human use, and resilient in the face of human accidents. The total impact of architecture is front loaded during construction, so if we can build to last and build less new as a result, we can extend the financial and human investment.

This is the vision for the keets. Better buildings that prioritize human and ecological health, are conscious of how their construction impacts others, and are designed of durable assemblies and materials intended to last. The Catlin Keets are our first step towards realizing small housing units that leave a lasting, positive impact. We are excited about the journey.

Join us!