Since 1993, Brad has operated a successful permaculture and regenerative design, consulting, and education business rooted in integrated, sustainable approaches to landscape design, planning, and daily living. His journey into this work began with a deep fascination for how we can live in better harmony with our environment—especially in drylands like the Sonoran Desert, where he lives. 

 

This session will include how he got into working with these natural elements—how observing the intense desert climate sparked a passion for harvesting water, capturing shade, and harnessing the sun to create comfort, beauty, and abundance. Through his work and lifestyle, he has developed many fun innovations and shared countless adventures in collaborating with the environment.

Integrated Sun- & Shade-Harvesting for Buildings, Neighborhoods, Gardens, and Landscapes will explore simple, cost-effective strategies for harnessing winter sun and summer shade to improve comfort, conserve resources, and boost garden productivity. Topics will include seasonal sun paths, ideal tree and building orientation, passive solar design, optimizing roof overhangs, integrating wind and water strategies, solar cooking, solar rights, and retrofitting structures and landscapes for greater energy efficiency. Along the way, you’ll be inspired by the power of working with the elements rather than against them.