Green Project of the week: PHNX Development
PHNX Development’s project, the Yosemite Lake House balances the challenges of building in a wildfire-vulnerable area with sustainability, comfort and resilience. The three-bedroom and three-bathroom home is located on Pine Mountain Lake near Yosemite National Park.
During the first five months of construction, there were a minimum of eight wildfires in a ten-mile radius of the project. While the threat of destruction is apparent, the noncombustible practices by PHNX Development aimed to prevent embers from even entering the home. The home features Insulated Concrete Forms (ICF) exterior walls, an inherently resistant material meeting Type IA noncombustible standards. The project also used steel framing, ensuring there is no wood in the structure. With a standing seam metal roof and no roof vents, the risk of embers entering the home is eliminated.
The all-electric and net zero design won 1st Runner Up and the People’s Choice Award in the Small Residential category at the 2026 ICF Builder Awards.
PHNX Development is a San-Diego based design + build firm founded in 2019 by architect Laurie Fisher. Through PHNX Fisher aims to change the development of single-family homes to prioritize safety, durability, affordability and accessibility.
“We’re honored to see this home recognized on an international stage,” said Fisher. “The Yosemite Lake House reflects what is possible today, homes that are safer, more resilient, energy efficient and architecturally compelling. We’re proud to be helping move residential construction in that direction.”
Photo Credit: PHNX Development
