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That's the thinking that went into the formation of Sheila Gregg's architectural firm, sol agua terra, which specializes in sustainable design and green building.

Sol agua terra operates under the premise that it is the company's professional responsibility to educate clients about environmentally-responsible materials and methods and incorporate them into projects to the best of their ability, Gregg said.

The firm subscribes to a "holistic architecture philosophy that emphasizes the importance of the whole and the interdependence of its parts -- culture, environment, geography, economy, technology, spirituality, time, well-being, and purpose -- as they relate to the built environment," Gregg said.

Gregg is a member of the American Institute of Architects and is accredited by Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Green Building Rating System -- a voluntary, consensus-based standard for evaluating high-performance, sustainable buildings, administered by the U.S. Green Building Council.

"The foundation of sol agua terra is providing personal service that incorporates approachability and professionalism, making it easier for clients to express their specific needs, trepidations and constraints," Gregg said. "This level of communication allows us to create an appropriate, innovative and sustainable design."

Gregg's work has made for some happy campers.

"She's extremely easy to work with," said Christina Mahew, owner of Preferred Construction in Mount Airy . "She's always looking for the most economical and environmentally friendly way to meet her clients' need."

Preferred Construction has projects in Pennsylvania and Maryland, and Gregg has been able to incorporate each area's flavor -- contemporary or historic -- into her designs, Mahew said.

Gregg is good at mediating between what the client wants and what can be built, Mahew said.

"A lot of times what the client wants may not be best for the area or may not be the best functionally," Mahew said. "She works with us but also with the owner."

Sol agua terra's project experience includes commercial, renovation, historic preservation, education, manufacturing, retail, residential, resort timeshare, casino entertainment and hospitality.

Gregg has more than 10 years professional architecture experience in the Washington metropolitan area, California and Nevada. Her pre-architecture experience includes more than 15 years in real estate finance and development, and 10 years in hospitality.