Eco-responsible homes: options and costs to know

An eco-responsible home does not necessarily cost more to draw. What changes are the choices: orientation, materials, systems and landscaping. Here is how we present them, with their real costs, so you can decide with full knowledge.

4 min read · Updated on October 10, 2026

Orientation, the choice that costs nothing

Orienting the house well costs nothing extra on paper. It is often the most profitable choice: it is made once, at the very beginning, before the plans.

Materials and systems

For materials and systems, we show you the real costs and the subsidies available. You choose: conventional or eco-responsible, project by project.

Eco-responsible support

It is added to the starting price, as you choose: solar orientation, materials, ecological systems and subsidies.

Eco-responsible support: $125/hour

A lot designed for biodiversity

Florence specializes in sustainable landscaping and habitats for pollinators. Landscaping for pollinators can be added to your project (from $1,500).

Frequently asked questions

Does an eco-responsible home cost more?

Not necessarily. Orienting the house well costs nothing extra on paper. For materials and systems, we show you the real costs and the subsidies available, and you choose.

How much do building permit plans cost?

From $3,000 for an accessory building, $6,000 for a home addition, a renovation, a new home or a cottage, and $1,200 for a design project. The final price depends on the floor area and the complexity. It is payable in two 50% instalments.