Leah Karmaker is a change agent. From cultural arts to building science to social justice, Leah’s interests—and visions for betterment—are many. As design and project coordinator at Just Housing, a public benefit corporation designing ready-to-build zero-energy homes in Duluth, Minn., Leah’s work addresses housing inequity, environmental injustice, and the “green-collar” workforce. Since joining the woman-owned agency in 2021, she has focused primarily on new single-family residential design, and describes recent forays into energy assessments for climate resilience as “super fun.”

Keeping Things Creative

A self-proclaimed artistic type, Leah never expected to work for a building contractor after graduating from Northeastern University with a degree in architecture. She was surprised to learn how much she enjoys the technical, hands-on aspects of building with a construction crew. This experience informs her approach when leading Just Housing’s workforce trainings in green building principles and practices.

Leah says she is passionate about “adequate housing,” which Just Housing defines as healthy, durable, fossil fuel–free, and accessible. “Most people do not have access to buildings that keep them safe and healthy without polluting the atmosphere,” Leah explains. “Building adequate buildings is not a given in this industry; accessibility is still the challenge.”

Asked where her career is headed, Leah replies, “I would like to learn about high-performance multifamily design. And I am still figuring out how building expertise plays a role in systemic change—maybe it’s code work, maybe policy work. Also, building city halls, libraries, community centers, and other institutions to a high-performance standard is so important as a collective resource during climate emergencies—that’s another path I could see for myself.”

Wherever her path leads, Leah Karmaker is sure to make change.

— Kiley Jacques, senior editor, Green Building Advisor

From Fine Homebuilding #325

Keep Craft Alive is our campaign celebrating those who have chosen to passionately pursue a career in design, building, and remodeling. Find out more and show your support by visiting KeepCraftAlive.org, and use #KeepCraftAlive to share your passion for the cause.

RELATED STORIES

• What is Building Science?
• Zero-Energy Homes Are Ready for the Mainstream
• How Do You Find an Affordable Way to Do High-Performance?

Fine Homebuilding Recommended Products

Affordable IR Camera

This camera is super useful for tracking down air leaks in buildings. The one-hand pistol grip arrangement frees your other hand for steadying yourself while maneuvering tricky job sites.

Buy at Amazon

Graphic Guide to Frame Construction

Now in it’s 5th edition, Rob Thallon’s book for builders has been a go-to resource for decades. This book features clear graphics that will help you understand how nearly all American houses are — or should be — built.

Buy at Amazon

All New Kitchen Ideas that Work

Kitchens are one of the most important rooms in the house. It's where we pack in the most function and spend the most money, so you want something that's convenient and inspiring — this book will help you get there.

Buy at Amazon