In 2001, founders and managing partners, Les Wold, Dave Brettelle and Dale Rott, started a conversation that turned into a passion spanning 25 years. The topic? Homebuilding – but not just any type of homebuilding. Wold, Brettelle and Rott sought to create sustainable, net zero, energy efficient homes that were built with care, intent and a firm focus on the families who would live in those homes for years to come. 

Alongside this vision was a desire to build a team with like-minded values. Now with Dominic Emmelkamp, managing partner and Andrew LeMoine, partner, joining the leadership alongside a dedicated team of designers and tradespeople, Effect Home Builders has more than achieved its goal and continues to deliver homes that have an impact.

Every project starts with a unique philosophy that encompasses five key aspects: design, structure, finishing, features and warranty. 

“Our approach was ahead of its time,” explains Wold of the philosophy that drives their vision. “We were building energy efficient homes when most people weren’t yet asking for them. We stayed true to our values, and over time, our persistence paid off.”

Brettelle adds, “It took a lot of research, continuous learning and educating homeowners about the benefits of building differently. As the industry began to shift, more clients started seeking us out because of our philosophy.”

The philosophy ensures that entire projects are handled in house: design, detailing, building envelope strategy, structural work, estimating and construction management. This is rare in the industry and allows for a very high level of collaboration and quality control.

“This integration means every detail is aligned and every challenge is met as a team. It is a unique strength that allows us to deliver homes with exceptional performance and craftsmanship,” Brettelle says.

While net zero homes were only a buzzword when Effect launched, sustainable building is now a mandate. Thanks to being ahead of the curve, Effect does not have to focus on the “how.” Instead, they focus on building better, smarter and creating deigns that are as beautiful as they are functional.

Wold notes, “We are still guided by the same values, but now we apply them to building high-performance custom homes that prioritize repeatability, cost-efficiency, thoughtful design and long-term quality. Our early experience in innovation has positioned us to lead the next chapter. This includes a focus on optimization, healthy homes, universal design and embodied carbon considerations.”

An example of this is seen in one of many award-winning builds: The Belgravia Green Net Zero project.

In 2012, this was one of the first net zero homes in Canada and the first residential home in Alberta to use an air source heat pump, a technology that is now widely recommended for residential energy efficiency upgrades. To drive this innovation, the project incorporated intensive, collaborative workshops called charrettes where stakeholders, including experts, clients and community members, came together to brainstorm and co-create solutions to complex design challenges.

“That process paid off,” Brettelle shares. “The home ended up producing more energy than it consumes, and, just as importantly, it became a warm and welcoming space for a family. It proved that performance and comfort can live together beautifully.”

Wold says, when it comes to discussing Effect’s many builds, “There are so many great projects with wonderful homeowners! Many of our clients want a home that aligns with their environmental values and supports aging in place. Our design team and structures team work closely to incorporate passive solar design, no-step entries and barrier-free homes that are beautiful, efficient and durable. The result is a quiet, comfortable and resilient home that truly fits their lifestyle.”

As custom builders, they also enjoy incorporating personalized features for homeowners. Just a few include: underground tunnels between the house and garage, hidden car elevators that make vehicles disappear, glass bridges over living spaces, full sized aquariums, fully permitted slides from the second floor to the main level, hidden doors, secret playrooms and indoor swimming pools.

“It is always rewarding to get to know our homeowners, understand their priorities and help bring their unique and sometimes quirky dreams to life,” smiles Emmelkamp.

LeMoine speaks to how the team is a vital part of the equation.

“What has helped us break through and stay strong is our team. Having a full design team and construction expertise under one roof allows us to collaborate from the first sketch to the final build. Our structures division, with a team of full-time carpenters, is an extension of that, bringing building science to life and helping us deliver homes that are beautiful, durable and high performing. That kind of integrated approach is rare in our industry and gives us a real advantage.

“We are fortunate to have very little turnover, with multiple employees with a decade or more with the company. This helps keep a consistent flow within our team and projects. This is not typical in the industry.”

Everyone on the team lives the philosophy and values in a tangible way, as evidenced by the move into their head office. 

Wold says “One of the most impactful moments in our history was the grand opening of our office. This was Edmonton’s first commercial building fully off the electrical grid, powered independently by sustainable systems. At the time, it was a bold move. It was a deep energy retrofit of an existing building, which reduced the CO2 emissions by 80 per cent. It turned an old, energy guzzling apartment into one of the most energy efficient offices in the city.

“This project was very exciting as it was much more than a renovation. It enhances the neighbourhood and showcases an innovative way to generate all power on site while drastically reducing greenhouse gas emissions.”

He continues, “It received significant media attention including newspapers, magazines and all of Edmonton’s television news crews. The opening was attended by the mayor, national building experts and the general public. Even more impactful than the media attention was the fact that the vast majority of homeowners that we built for over the years took the time to come celebrate with us! It was like a family reunion.”

Part of the reason for the team’s camaraderie is that they know the value of having fun!

“We are famously known for our tie dye shirts,” laughs Emmelkamp. “It started as a team event and quickly became a beloved tradition. Every year we roll up our sleeves, laugh a lot and make a glorious mess creating personalized tie dye shirts together. Now, every team member has a closet full of colourful, one-of-a-kind shirts that they proudly wear — on site, at events and just because. It is our unofficial uniform and a perfect reflection of who we are: creative, collaborative and not afraid to have a little fun.”

The team works hard, plays hard and supports the community with the same passion they support clients and each other.

Wold says, “Our primary charitable partner is Youth Empowerment and Support Services, an organization that provides critical support to youth in crisis. With our office just a few blocks from their facility, we see firsthand the impact of their work, and we are proud to support them.”

“We also believe in celebrating the arts,” Brettelle adds. “As a season sponsor of Vocal Alchemy, a local Edmonton choir, we are proud to support creativity and connection in our community.”

They all love finding ways to give back, big and small. 

“Whether it is hosting our summer socials with free ice cream for everyone, or supporting local businesses by purchasing gift cards for giveaways and community events, we are always looking for ways to show appreciation and strengthen the neighbourhoods we build in. In addition, we regularly mentor students, host educational tours and share our knowledge with other builders. Giving back is simply part of how we operate.”

Emmelkamp chimes in with a humorous anecdote, “Every year we gather the team and do an Earth Day community clean up. Normally getting honked at is a bad thing, but in this case it is neighbours driving by expressing their appreciation with a friendly honk!”

Since that conversation in 2001, Effect Home Builders has done exactly what they set out to do – change the world, one project at a time. 

We are incredibly grateful to Built Green Canada for providing a framework that both challenges and inspires us,” says the leadership team. “Our success is built on the trust of our clients and the passion of our team. We specifically want to recognize Will Berger, our site supervisor of 16 years, for his seamless coordination, and our site leads, Reuben Noot and Kurtis Brown, who are constantly praised for their professionalism. Finally, the deep bonds we form with homeowners are a testament to our design superstars: Scott, Patri and Renée.”

After 25 years, where do they go from here? 

Emmelkamp says, “We are continuing to grow in ways that align with our purpose. Our Effect structures department is expanding to support other builders with advanced wall systems and sustainable building practices. Internally, we are investing in our team — in their growth, development and leadership. Our future is about continuing to lead through collaboration, quality and care.”

LeMoine adds, “We want to push boundaries while keeping homes accessible for the clients we serve. This means constant problem-solving, continuous learning and open communication with suppliers, policymakers and clients. When clients tell us they feel healthier, more comfortable and more at peace in their homes, that is incredibly rewarding.”

“Your home can be beautiful, efficient and personalized, all at once. With the right team, it can be a fun and rewarding journey,” Wold concludes.

effecthomes.ca