Urbansun was founded in 1978, by Kathryn Gray, as a passive solar design firm for residential homes. Urbansun was initially based in Lake Oswego, Oregon (suburb of Portland), and recently has relocated to Bend, Oregon (Central Oregon, high desert region).

Our initial and continuing objective is to promote passive solar energy as the basis for designing and constructing residential homes. Most homes, if properly constructed, can generate more than 50% of their space heating requirements with passive solar energy. Once you have designed and sited the house for maximum passive solar energy, active solar energy options can be readily added for optimal effectiveness.

Urbansun has designed over 300 passive solar homes and a number of solar additions to existing homes for clients throughout the US. In addition, Urbansun has constructed over 40 passive solar homes in California and Oregon to test and evaluate the effectiveness of passive solar energy in a number of different climatic conditions. In addition, we recommend the use of sustainable, local materials to achieve an optimal "green" home.

Urbansun designs a "sun-smart" home that is effective at meeting year-around requirements for winter heating and summer cooling. Solar energy is free and sustainable. Every home should take advantage of solar energy to reduce costs of space heating, enjoy the light provided by the sun, and live in the warmth and comfort of solar energy.