history + ethos
history
Downing Construction was founded by Zach Downing in 2017. In seven years, he turned a one-man-band working on small residential renovations into a team of 4+, alongside a group of trusted, dedicated subs working on full homes and modular public work.
Many of the clients he built relationships with along the way often asked for design help. Megan Downing, Zach’s wife, became the go-to for all things design on most Downing Construction jobs.
Megan dreamed of building a larger design team. She founded Emerald House Studio in 2021, which became an LLC in 2023 after receiving her license to practice architecture.
Downing Construction and Emerald House Studio completed projects together, as well as separately over the years.
In October 2024 we officially became one larger team to bring simplicity, well-rounded expertise, and a higher level of collaboration to our clients. As Emerald Design Build, we will continue to grow the business and guide The Emerald Team toward exciting projects, new challenges, and long-lasting buildings.
emerald design build
Emerald is more than a name—it’s a reminder that even in the most unexpected places, beauty, peace, and purpose can grow.
ethos
Where Our Name Came From:
The name Emerald holds personal and symbolic meaning for our team. In 2014, co-founder Megan Downing relocated from a small town in Northern New York to Boston. Amid the energy and fast pace of the city, she felt a sense of disconnection—until a studio project led her to the Arnold Arboretum, a living museum of trees and part of Boston’s beloved public park system. It quickly became a place of refuge, reflection, and inspiration—one she could enjoy both alone and with close friends. This space grounded her in the city and reaffirmed her passion for architecture: to design places that feel personal, restorative, and shareable. She later discovered that the Arboretum is the final link in the Emerald Necklace, a series of parks designed by Frederick Law Olmsted that wind through Boston like a green thread. At Emerald Design Build, we strive to create environments that hold this same sense of meaning—places that offer comfort, identity, and connection for the people who inhabit them.
Encouraging Sustainability:
The name Emerald naturally evokes the color green—and with it, a commitment to environmentally conscious design. Within the architecture and engineering industry, sustainable design is more than a trend; it’s a critical responsibility. At Emerald Design Build, we believe it’s our duty not only to care for the planet but to actively advocate for it. Our team is dedicated to creating buildings that reduce environmental impact, prioritize long-term durability, and inspire others to embrace sustainable practices. We design with future generations in mind, offering solutions that are both resilient and regenerative.
Building a Brand with Purpose:
At Emerald Design Build, our work is rooted in authenticity. We’re passionate about creating thoughtful, lasting architecture—spaces that reflect beauty, purpose, and environmental integrity. The Emerald name represents more than our design values; it reflects a commitment to intentional growth, meaningful relationships, and a curated standard of excellence. As our team continues to evolve, so does our impact. For both clients and internal development projects, we remain dedicated to designing spaces that matter, advocating for sustainable practices, and sharing our knowledge with others. Our hope is that through this work, we continue to build not just structures—but a community of genuine, like-minded collaborators.
