Balanced Buildings
At Outside In Design + Build, we approach the built environment through Integrated Design—a holistic, team-driven methodology that sets clear goals and milestones while leveraging individual expertise.
This collaborative process ensures outcomes that align with the increasingly complex demands of new construction (Part 3 & 9), adaptive reuse (Part 11), and historical building restoration.
What We Do
Our process begins with project review and assessment, allowing us to integrate industry best practices while balancing constructability, cost, and risk on behalf of the owner, aligning with the increasingly complex demands of new construction, adaptive reuse, and historical building restoration.
How We Do It
With clear communication and timely execution, we provide actionable options tailored to our clients’ needs. Our flexible team structure accommodates various budgets, ensuring a customer-first approach that delivers efficient, effective solutions.
Our Approach
Our team partners with building owners, consultants, and product suppliers, focusing on building enclosures and exploring low-energy, low-carbon solutions that prioritize durability, energy efficiency, lifecycle performance, and cost-effectiveness.
What We Provide
Design & Product Application Review
Energy Modeling (H2K, Design Builder, IES) to assess energy use and carbon footprint
Onsite Enclosure Reviews (for existing buildings) & Fenestration Mock-ups (for new and existing projects)
Integrated Design Facilitation (customized workshops aligned with client needs and budget)
Value Engineering to balance performance, durability, and budget constraints
Case Study:
Yoga Retreat @ Banks Rd.
Eleuthera, The Bahamas
Our team successfully completed a resilient, high-performance residential project in the Bahamas, designed to withstand the challenges of a hot, humid climate. Using a panelized approach, we streamlined construction while ensuring structural durability against hurricanes and coastal conditions. The home integrates strategically placed fenestration to maximize natural light and ventilation, reducing reliance on mechanical cooling. By incorporating storm-resistant materials and advanced construction techniques, the project delivers a robust yet elegant solution tailored to the island environment.
A key feature of this project was its passive approach to energy efficiency. We carefully oriented the structure to optimize shade and airflow, minimizing heat gain while enhancing comfort. High-performance glazing, deep overhangs, and thermal mass elements contribute to indoor climate control, reducing energy consumption. The resilience of the design extends beyond weather resistance—it promotes long-term sustainability and minimal maintenance. This completed project exemplifies innovative construction solutions that harmonize with the natural beauty and demanding conditions of the Bahamas.
Our Portfolio
Who's Dave?
David Petersen is a seasoned expert with over three decades of experience in low-energy building solutions. Specializing in passive systems and fenestration design, he founded Outside-In Design + Build in 2007. His consultancy leads in building enclosure design, particularly in fenestration, with a hands-on project management approach across Canada, the U.S., and the Caribbean.
Outside-In Design + Build integrates European and North American products seamlessly, navigating regulatory landscapes for tailored solutions. David is also deeply engaged in intensified development, especially in Laneway and ADU sectors, completing two projects using innovative methods to surpass industry standards in energy efficiency, carbon footprint reduction, durability, and cost-effectiveness, showcasing his dedication to advancing sustainable building.
David holds a Management Studies degree from the University of Toronto and continues to shape sustainable building design, blending expertise with practical experience.
Contact Us
Contact Us
Get in touch to see how we can help you or if you have any questions about what we do.
Dave Petersen - Principal
9 Brock St.
Hamilton, ON.
L8L 0C7
+1 (647) 234-7816
