A few months ago, my friend shared a frustrating experience with a supposed “green” building contractor for his new home. These so-called environmentally conscious experts used subpar materials, missed deadlines, and ignored sustainable building practices.
The result? A half-finished project and a depleted budget.
As I listened to his story, I couldn’t help but feel the need to save others from a similar fate. So, with the rest of the Best in Edmonton team, I spoke with numerous contractors and their past clients to find the best green building contractors in the city.
After hours of research and countless interviews, here are the exceptional few that stood out to us.
How much does it cost to hire a green building contractor in Edmonton?
Hiring a green building contractor in Edmonton costs at least 200,000 CAD. This is just an estimate and the final cost will vary depending on the complexity of the building project.
How We Chose
1. ArtHouse Residential

Title | Info |
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WEBSITE | http://arthouseresidential.ca |
ADDRESS | 10948 80 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T6G 0R1, Canada |
CONTACT DETAILS | +1 (587) 415-9390 |
OPERATING HOURS | Monday to Friday 8 AM to 5 PM |
If you want a sustainable, custom-built home, Arthouse Residential might be the right fit for you.
One thing that stood out to us is ArtHouse’s focus on designing for density. This means they focus on building multiples to maximize the use of land while minimizing environmental impact.
Several people who went with ArtHouse for their duplexes mentioned how thrilled they were about the team’s commitment to net-zero energy. They installed solar panels to conserve energy and used eco-friendly materials like recycled steel, bamboo, and recycled wood.
The team’s in-house architectural technologists also received lots of praise. They helped clients ensure their homes met the standards for sustainable finishes and aesthetics. Plus, they use computer models, which allow clients to visualize the design concepts.
Once the building began, many clients loved their project management software. It showed them daily logs and pictures of the work happening on site.
That being said, we did hear complaints about the prices of their services. Some clients said the starting rates are quite expensive.
We chose such an energetic, innovative, and skilled bunch
“The BEST decision we made!! was to engage the design and building services of ArtHouse Residential. What a super team to work with! They transformed our vision for a new family home and income suite into a reality. Their experience with design and construction on infill sites was evident from the first day we met on site. There in-house designer worked closely with us from initial sketches, through to approvals and was always available for selections and he kept us on budget!! The construction supervisor and project manager were always happily available and maintained a clean and happy site . We are so pleased that we chose such an energetic, innovative, and skilled bunch at ArtHouse. The team is passionate about what they do and they do it well!”
- Julie Cendric, Google Reviews
ArtHouse are experts in their fields
“My experience with ArtHouse proved them to be a client focused home builder, with an emphasis on efficient and sustainable designs. Every step of the process was executed with intent and with a personal investment in the final product. The individuals behind ArtHouse are experts in their fields, each bringing a first class approach to everything from initial design to final touches. If you are looking to build a truly custom home, with a builder who can bring your vision to life, I highly recommend hiring ArtHouse Residential.”
- Jen Kazarian, Google Reviews
2. Active Homes

Title | Info |
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WEBSITE | http://activehomes.ca |
ADDRESS | 4914 Roper Rd NW, Edmonton, AB T6B 3T7, Canada |
CONTACT DETAILS | +1 (587) 524-1131 |
OPERATING HOURS | Monday to Friday 8 AM to 4:30 PM |
Active Home is perfect if you want a customizable, energy-efficient home built within 120 days. From the layout to the finishes, Active Home makes sure your new place measures up to the sustainability standards. They also keep true to the aesthetic designs you want.
Many homeowners praised their energy-efficient windows and doors. They mentioned that once those windows were in, their monthly energy bill was reduced and their homes stayed cool.
The same goes for their HVAC systems. People like how the ones these contractors use are high-efficiency, meaning less energy use and more savings. Active Home’s use of solar panels also helps cut back on the overall carbon footprint.
And we can’t forget about the water-saving fixtures. Many people pointed out the low-flow toilets and faucets they installed did wonders for reducing their water bills.
That being said, several people had their fair share of grumbles about the after-sales service. Once the build was over, the support sort of took a backseat.
They’re absolutely gorgeous with great finishings
“Preet and her team are amazing! You can never go wrong building a home with them. They are the epitome of class, luxury and professionalism when it comes to dealing with them. Now looking at their designs, they’re absolutely gorgeous with great finishings and you can tell they really put thought into every detail, they truly have an eye for design. As for when it comes to dealing with any issues, no matter what issues arise, they are always there for you day or night. I would highly recommend Active Homes to anyone looking to purchase a home!”
- Amy Smith, Google Reviews
Brilliant in customizing to meet our needs
“Most-trusted Builders, they always take an extra mile to make things work. Brilliant in customizing to meet our needs and lots of creative options are provided to polish our raw ideas. Best choice for first time home buyer as they will stay in touch with their clients throughout the process and guide in a timely manner.”
- Tandeep Mehta, Google Reviews
3. Habitat Studio

Title | Info |
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WEBSITE | http://habitat-studio.com |
ADDRESS | 9842 60 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T6E 0C5, Canada |
CONTACT DETAILS | +1 (780) 433-1107 |
OPERATING HOURS | Monday to Friday - 8 AM to 5 PM |
Habitat Studio is known for their use of sustainable technologies and their experienced contractors that make building custom green homes simple.
Everyone we talked to couldn’t stop raving about how their homes blow past the usual energy code requirements. All of their homes have an EnerGuide rating of zero.
People like the fact that although Habitat helps you cut down on your energy bills, their homes don’t look shabby. Rather, from what we’ve seen, they’re quite Instagrammable.
They also seem to be one step ahead with the latest construction and sustainability technologies. Several homeowners were pleased with their use of the Passive House system, which is pretty much the gold standard in high-performance building.
However, almost everyone agreed that Habitat Studio isn’t cheap.
Strong design team with lots of unique ideas
“These builders took me from initial design to final construction of a custom home. Thoroughly professional; strong design team with lots of unique ideas (Norm!) and practical approach; exceptionally transparent billing. They are becoming a one-stop shop including even the landscaping and solar. It wasn’t done super fast, but that’s to be expected, and it was done well. “We’ve never built this home before” is always true for a custom home, but I think the chances of everything working out are high if you work with Habitat. Well done guys!”
- Jacob Jaremko, Google Reviews
My house and the quality of product and service is top notch!!
“Addition of the solar division a couple of years ago is amazing asset! Just had a Solar array installed on my house and the quality of product and service is top notch!!! Highly recommend!!!”
- Kelly Anderson, Google Reviews
4. Effect Home Builders Ltd

Title | Info |
---|---|
WEBSITE | http://effecthomes.ca |
ADDRESS | 8819 92 St NW, Edmonton, AB T6C 3P9, Canada |
CONTACT DETAILS | +1 (780) 450-1399 |
OPERATING HOURS | Monday to Friday - 8 AM to 5 PM |
Effect Home Builders Ltd. stands out for their certifications—Built Green and R2000. You can rest assured that these contractors know what they’re doing when it comes to sustainable construction.
They reduce your home’s carbon footprint by considering sustainable material choices, water conservation, and energy-efficient appliances.
Many clients love how Effect ensures energy efficiency isn’t just a selling point but a standard part of their service. They gushed about their Net Zero home, which balances out energy use with energy production thanks to those nifty solar electric systems.
Others like how their contractors walk them through their process, from concept to finish. They design everything using 3D modelling software, so you get a real sense of what your home will look like before it’s even built.
And from what we’ve seen from their portfolio, the homes they work on aren’t just good for the planet but also really stunning.
That being said, some people mentioned that the building process can be a bit slow.
Effect made our renovation project seamless
“A wonderful company to work with from start to finish! The quality of work was outstanding. I have absolutley no hesitation in recommending Effect Home Builders for any project. The entire team was professional, responsive to inquiries, and attentive to our budget. Effect made our renovation project seamless and a pleasant experience. Can’t thank them enough.”
- Graeme Brassard, Google Reviews
The work was professional and meticulous at every step
“We’ve been in our wonderful home for about 18 months now. Effect Homes have done a truly incredible job building our very unique home. They were involved with our architects from day one to make the vision come alive. The work was professional and meticulous at every step. The quality is second to none. I can’t say enough about the integrity and commitment of everyone involved, from the owners of the company to everyone that set foot in our home from beginning to end. Effect truly cares about their work. The house is magnificent! And probably one of the most energy efficient in Edmonton.”
- Amin Pisani, Google Reviews
5. Green Door Renovations

Title | Info |
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WEBSITE | https://greendoorrenos.ca |
CONTACT DETAILS | +1 (780) 399-0583 |
OPERATING HOURS | Monday to Sunday - 9 AM to 5 PM |
Green Door Renovations is for anyone looking to make their spaces more sustainable, beautiful, and functional. Their dedication to LEED certification is impressive and shows they walk the talk when it comes to sustainability.
From what we’ve gathered, they’ve got a knack for balancing eco-friendly upgrades with style. Several homeowners raved about their energy-efficient upgrades, saying their utility bills have never been so low.
Another thing people love is the use of non-toxic materials. Many felt safer knowing their family wasn’t exposed to harmful chemicals during and after the construction.
Their commitment to sustainable landscaping also received much praise. However, multiple people mentioned that projects occasionally took longer than initially estimated.
Exceptional craftsmanship
“Green Door Renovations exceeded my expectations! They transformed our space flawlessly and with exceptional craftsmanship. Highly recommend their professional and reliable services!”
- Keaton Chalifoux, Google Reviews
Outstanding results with unwavering reliability
“I can’t express enough how impressed I am with Marshall at Green Door. From the meticulous renovation of my entire upstairs to the seamless addition of a legal basement suite, Marshall’s commitment to excellence shines through every aspect of his work. Not only did he demonstrate exceptional time management skills, ensuring that the project progressed smoothly, but he also remained firmly within the agreed-upon budget, providing peace of mind throughout the process. What truly sets Marshall apart is his remarkable ability as a problem solver. Faced with challenges, he approached each one with a creative and effective solution, showcasing his expertise in the field. Working with Marshall was not only a professional delight but also a stress-free experience. I wholeheartedly recommend Green Door Renos to anyone in search of a contractor who delivers outstanding results with unwavering reliability and a client-centric approach.”
- Hayden Booth, Google Reviews