r.haus design.build

01/01/2026

Happy New Year from Meg, Randy and the entire r.haus design.build team. Here’s to a 2026!!

09/27/2025

Today I had the opportunity to present at the retrofitMAINE Symposium on the importance of creating a master plan for your retrofit.

I closed my talk with a simple reminder:
“What we build today will be tomorrow’s retrofit.”

A well-planned retrofit, guided by building science and Passive House principles, can extend the life of a home far into the future. By planning the whole house as a system — and sequencing improvements carefully — we can lower demand, right-size our systems, and create healthier, more comfortable spaces to live in.

But here in Maine, I’ve also seen retrofits (and even brand-new homes) that skip the fundamentals. Without this consideration, some houses end up needing retrofits almost immediately.

That’s why making a plan matters. A retrofit doesn’t have to be done all at once — it can be phased over time, based on budget and timing. But it should always be sequenced with building science in mind, so every step strengthens the next.

👉 I’d love to hear your thoughts: Do you see homes in Maine being built or renovated with the long-term in mind, or do you see more quick fixes that won’t last?

03/15/2025

Looking to start a hands-on career in carpentry? Want to learn from experienced professionals while working on high-performance, energy-efficient homes? r.haus design.build is looking for a motivated Apprentice Carpenter to join our team!

WHAT YOU’LL GAIN:
✅ Paid apprenticeship with benefits
✅ Extensive hands-on training in high-performance residential construction
✅Paid off site educational curriculum
✅ The opportunity to work on cutting-edge, durable, and sustainable homes

WE’RE LOOKING FOR SOMEONE WHO:
🔨 Enjoys working with their hands and learning new skills
🔨 Is reliable, hardworking, and eager to grow
🔨 Can follow instructions and work well in a team environment
🔨 Pays attention to detail and takes pride in their work

No prior experience? No problem. If you’re motivated and ready to build a career, we’ll teach you the rest. Whether you’re just starting out or looking for a fresh opportunity, this could be the perfect fit.

📩 Apply now, link In bio

12/13/2024

Let’s go Girls!! So excited to support this program.

Best of luck to our Darling's Auto Group Maine Inferno 12U Team & our r.haus design.build Maine Inferno 14U Team as the venture to Vermont to participate in the Rail City Challenge Cup. We had some success last time we made the trip, go get them girls!

10/06/2024

We’re growing, and we’re looking for a Carpenter or Lead Carpenter with any experience level or background that will support us in crafting high-performance, custom homes in Orono Maine and surrounding areas. Whether you’re just starting out or bring years of expertise we want to hear from you.

At R.haus Design Build, we’re committed to building more than just homes – we’re creating lasting spaces that combine sustainable design, craftsmanship, and innovation. Each project is an opportunity to shape the future of home building, right here in Maine.

We believe that diverse perspectives, a collaborative approach and continued learning matter. Those supportive environments foster artisanship, dedication and a passion for the industry. Applicants from all backgrounds are welcome. Employees will expect benefits including: Competitive pay, Paid holidays, Paid time off, Professional development opportunities, Health benefits and more.

This is your chance to be part of a company that’s redefining custom home building in Maine. If you share our commitment to quality and innovation, we’d love to hear from you!

Apply at link
https://rhaus.me/join-our-team

we have projects in the Orono, Sebec Lake and MDI Regions

10/05/2024

The new magazine issue is out and it feature a story about “Foundations of the future.” Our project’s slabless slab is pictured and discussed. Here are a few more pictures how that assembly went together.

1. It begins with with a standard 5’ concrete frost wall.
2. It was backfilled with foamed glass aggregate made from material replacing gravel backfill. This product also acts as insulation.
3. A shining layer of crushed stone was placed compacted and perfectly flattened.
4. 15mil v***r barrier is laid, detailed and sealed to wrap over the top of the concrete wall to the exterior
5. An additional layer of eps foam insulation board is placed.
6. Finally (2) layers of are placed. With the second layer being placed perpendicular to the first layer and being glued and screwed to the first layer.

What do you think of this approach? How are you building your foundation/slabs? Check back in our reels to see how we did a slabless slab on a retrofit project. Pick up your copy of on news stands today or find more stories on their website.

08/17/2024

It’s been an incredible summer working side by side with and , teaching them the ropes of building a high-performance home. They’ve learned the value of hard work, attention to detail, and the importance of doing a job right—even if it means redoing something you just spent hours on. As Owen heads to college and Aidan begins electrical training, I couldn’t be prouder of the skills they’ve built and the memories we’ve made. These are lessons they’ll carry with them for the rest of their lives.



📸 -

02/14/2024

Join me and PHriends for a discussion on v***r in buildings, hosted by Timberhp, this Thursday. Excited to share insights, especially about my PHavorite – V***r Open Assemblies. Let’s build smarter, more responsible homes. for a and

12/29/2023

Happy Birthday Owen!! Thanks for an unforgettable 18 years. We can wait for more

12/13/2023

Happy Sweet 16 Lily Jo.
Love your embarrassing Dad that you’re always so ecstatic about taking pictures with.