Eco Friendly Homes

Healthy and Energy Efficient Homes

Did you know that the average home can produce more greenhouse gasses than a car? Caring for our environment has never been more important.

At Privada, we have proactively embraced very high development and construction guidelines to ensure the beautiful Sonoran Desert at our door step remains glorious for generations to come. And that translates to not only a beautiful environment, but green-built, healthy homes.

As memorable as your evenings will be, there's nothing more renewing than waking to your surroundings at Privada. The mystique of the Sonoran Desert is truly one-of-a-kind. Its peaceful solitude and beautiful views will inspire the explorer in you. Take a peaceful stroll at dawn through the meandering foothills. Or perhaps an energizing morning hike along miles of planned trails. Whether you're cycling past awe-inspiring rock formations or traversing the endless trails on horseback with family or friends, every adventure is sure to rejuvenate both body and spirit.

Privada homes are built with a true building science and come with a limited guaranteed of heating and cooling costs. And that means value for the home owner and a chance to feel very good about your purchase.

Here are some of the things we do at Privada:

  • "Near Zero" energy
  • Solar Photovoltaic (3.5 kw) - assisted space, water, pool and spa heating
  • 120-gallon solar water tank
  • Insulation and framing techniques that minimize voids
  • Fresh air delivery system means less dust, fewer odors and remarkably comfortable temperatures
  • 16-SEER dual stage compressor
  • 95 percent efficient direct vent furnaces
  • Post tension slabs
  • Low-E energy efficient wood and aluminum clad windows
  • 60 to 70 percent of all exterior walls are double framed and provide for deep recessed windows and added insulation
  • Exceptional thermal envelope
  • Energy efficient plumbing features and dishwasher
  • High efficiency direct vent water heaters with recirculation system for quick demand hot water
  • Garage exhaust fans
  • Carbon monoxide detectors
  • Foam roofing system provides for a greater thermal barrier and reduces heating and cooling demand
  • High efficiency pool and spa pumps reduce energy usage by 30-90 percent
  • Smart irrigation and fertilization systems reduce water consumption
  • Xeriscape

Privada homes are built in accordance with the following agencies:

The Scottsdale Advanced Green Building Program encourages a whole-systems approach through design and building techniques to minimize environmental impact and reduce the energy consumption of buildings while contributing to the health of its occupants. Privada not only meets but well exceeds the City's expectations.



Environments for Living® has awarded Privada the highest level of achievement in energy efficiency. The homes have earned both the Green Level and Diamond Level honors from Environments for Living®, and are up to 71 percent more energy efficient than other new code-compliant new homes and up to 99 percent more energy efficient than the average ten year old home.

Each of the three custom-crafted home plans undergoes extensive review by Environments for Living®, a third party energy certification proram that promotes the principles of building science; treating the structure as an integrated system of systems, not just individual spaces. Once the home is under construction, in addition to the customary construction inspection, each home experiences three additional inspections by Environments for Living® to ensure the techniques to provide energy efficiency, indoor environmental quality and durability are being properly implemented. This program focuses on tight construction, fresh air ventilation, improved thermal systems, right-sized HVAC equipment, pressure balancing, internal moisture management and combustion safety.

Because of this close scrutiny of construction practices, Privada's three floorplans all come with a limited guarantee of heating and cooling costs.

  • Oro $79/month
  • Joya $103/month
  • Plata $103/month

APS, our electric provider, has honored Privada as an APS Energy Star and Solar Community. To participate in the Energy Star program, a builder must meet stringent standards for energy efficiency, which Privada certainly does. The typical Energy Star home uses 15-20 percent less energy than other homes. But at Privada, our eco friendly homes use up to 71 percent less energy. The Energy Star program requires effective insulation; high performance windows; tight construction and ductwork; efficient heating and cooling; and efficient products such as lighting, fans and appliances. Each home is then evaluated by a third party to ensure it meets or exceeds program requirements.