Karla Butterfield

Karla Butterfield is a Sustainability Director at SWA, working with residential buildings. She has 30 plus years of experience, with expertise in sustainable consulting services, program certification support, and implementation of high- performance building technologies. With architects, developers, builders, and homeowners, Karla develops specific sustainability strategies for both new construction and renovations. Her consulting work includes sustainability for residential buildings; selection of environmentally preferable products; analysis of resource-efficient appliances and building equipment; writing and implementing construction and deconstruction plans; and emphasizing energy conservation, environmental protection, and occupant health and safety. She participates as an integral partner in the initial strategic planning sessions and stakeholder workshops based on criteria for various certification programs. Karla is a Home Innovation Research Labs’ NGBS Verifier, PHIUS +Rater and +Verifier, LEED AP, Homes and LEED Green Rater, and promoter of Net Zero Energy and low embodied carbon buildings. She uses energy modeling software to analyze plans and specifications and makes recommendations for sustainability strategies. These may include thermal, air, and vapor barriers, as well as mechanical efficiencies, building materials and indoor air quality.