The Pretty Good House (PGH) movement is a practical approach to building high-performance homes — homes that are comfortable, healthy, energy-efficient, and durable without breaking the bank.
Instead of chasing certifications like Passive House or LEED, PGH focuses on smart, science-based building choices that make sense for your climate, budget, and lifestyle.
The PGH framework is built around a few simple but powerful ideas:
Use Less Energy
A Pretty Good House is designed to minimize heating and cooling demand through insulation, airtight construction, and thoughtful orientation toward the sun.
Be Durable and Low-Maintenance
The goal is long-term performance — a home that stands up to New England weather with minimal upkeep and high-quality materials.
Ensure Comfort and Health
Proper ventilation, balanced humidity, and good air quality are core features of PGH homes. Fresh air and consistent indoor temperatures make for healthier living.
Use Local and Sustainable Materials
Whenever possible, PGH builders choose locally sourced, low-toxicity materials to reduce the home’s environmental footprint.
Spend Where It Counts
A PGH isn’t about perfection — it’s about value. Builders invest in what delivers the greatest benefit for the cost, like high-performance windows, air sealing, and insulation.
The movement began in Maine among builders and designers who wanted a middle ground between standard construction and ultra-high-end efficiency programs. The idea was simple:
“Build the best house you can afford — one that’s pretty good in every way that matters.”
PGH is flexible, not a checklist. It adapts to each site, budget, and homeowner. The emphasis is on practical efficiency — not chasing perfection.
18 Woodland Grove was designed according to PGH principles, meaning it is:
High-Performance: Designed to retain heat in winter and stay cool in summer.
Net-Zero Ready: Efficient enough to run on solar when panels are added.
Comfortable Year-Round: Even temperatures and clean air in every room.
Built to Last: Materials and methods that reduce maintenance and energy costs for decades.
If you’d like to learn more about the Pretty Good House movement, visit:
👉 https://www.prettygoodhouse.org