Sustainable Craftsmanship Rooted in Appalachian Values.

Tree Bridge

Pink Beds Trail, Pisgah National Forest, NC

Trowbridge is often translated as “tree bridge”, from the Old English trēow brycg. Elegant in its simplicity. A natural structure connecting two embankments.

Mission & Vision

“Think globally, act hillbilly.”

At Trowbridge Designs, our mission is to connect the deep wisdom of Central Appalachia with the often high-tech world of sustainable technology. Connecting Silicon Valley to the Appalachian vernacular. We focus on projects that support land-based approaches to sustainable living, enhancing the resilience of the Western North Carolina mountain region. We pride ourselves on quality craftsmanship, long-term durability, and the use of sustainable and repurposed materials. By working closely with clients, we aim to translate their visions into practical design solutions that reflect their creative desires.

Our long-term goal is to make off-grid solar and sustainable designs affordable and accessible. By developing design solutions that can be produced efficiently, we hope to lower the barrier to entry for sustainable living, helping people build wealth and independence over time. Inspired by the concept of a "tree bridge," we strive to bring innovative, affordable designs to the mountains of Western North Carolina and beyond.

Approach & Philosophy

Our approach is rooted in pragmatism. We focus on affordable, practical solutions that people can integrate into their lives. We strive to make our designs durable and repairable.

“You can either do it like it’s a burden, or you can do it like it’s part of the dance.”

We hope to find peace in the work and to infuse a sense of joy into the process of sustainable living. Visit an Appalachian sorghum harvesting party, or square/contra dance, you will see that a great deal of work is being done, but you might not know it from the smiles on peoples’ faces.

Meet Jamie

Founder

Jamie Trowbridge, the founder of Trowbridge Designs, is a passionate advocate for sustainable design and construction. His journey into this field was inspired by his early work with environmental nonprofits and experiences in Latin America, where he witnessed the critical need for basic infrastructure development. Frustrated with merely advocating for sustainable solutions, Jamie decided to take action and equip himself with the skills to make a tangible difference. This led him to pursue a Masters of Science in Sustainable Design and the Built Environment at Appalachian State University, focusing on “appropriate technology.”

  • With over 13 years of experience, Jamie has worked on a diverse range of projects. From his early days with Habitat for Humanity and landscaping to his roles with major solar companies in California, he has consistently applied his skills in both white-collar engineering and blue-collar construction trades. His work at Zep Solar, a California-based technology startup, introduced him to strategies for moving quickly from design, to prototype, to final product in the solar hardware space, and his work at Sundance Power Systems in Weaverville, NC provided him with valuable experience in PV system design and estimating, as well as insights into local building authorities and the sometimes unmet needs of WNC customers seeking mid-range solar solutions.

    His approach integrates the of high-tech world of sustainable technology with the practical, self-reliant ethos of Appalachian homesteaders.

  • BA University of Virginia 2006 - German Major, Physics Minor

    M.S. Appalachian State University 2013 - Department of Sustainable Technology and the Built Environment

    Jamie's education at Appalachian State University was comprehensive, blending theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience. His coursework included renewable energy engineering, photovoltaic system design and construction, solar thermal systems, small wind and micro-hydro systems, project management, entrepreneurship, and computer modeling of renewable energy systems. He also played an active role in the Appalachian State Renewable Energy Initiative, and conducted research on biofuels, anaerobic digestion, and biodiesel production from waste oil. An internship focused on bringing solar jobs to the coalfields of West Virginia further enriched his practical experience.

  • Outside of his professional work, Jamie enjoys dancing (contra dance, ecstatic dance, blues fusion dance), gardening, aquaponics, and cycling. He believes in the importance of connecting with nature and the community, bringing the same passion to his personal interests as he does to his professional projects.

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Construction & Carpentry

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Off-grid Infrastructure

Ready to live sustainably? Explore our solar systems, battery banks, and water storage solutions.

Custom Design Solutions

Bring your vision to life with personalized home features, artistic e-bikes, and creative van conversions.