Efficient Environment - Photos & Ideas

The Mazama house is located in the Methow Valley of Washington State, a secluded mountain valley on the eastern edge of the North Cascades, about 200 miles northeast of Seattle. The house has been carefully placed in a copse of trees at the easterly end of a large meadow. Two major building volumes indicate the house organization. A grounded 2-story bedroom wing anchors a raised living pavilion that is lifted off the ground by a series of exposed steel columns. Seen from the access road, the large meadow in front of the house continues right under the main living space, making the living pavilion into a kind of bridge structure spanning over the meadow grass, with the house touching the ground lightly on six steel columns. The raised floor level provides enhanced views as well as keeping the main living level well above the 3-4 feet of winter snow accumulation that is typical for the upper Methow Valley. To further emphasize the idea of lightness, the exposed wood structure of the living pavilion roof changes pitch along its length, so the roof warps upward at each end. The interior exposed wood beams appear like an unfolding fan as the roof pitch changes. The main interior bearing columns are steel with a tapered “V”-shape, recalling the lightness of a dancer. The house reflects the continuing FINNE investigation into the idea of crafted modernism, with cast bronze inserts at the front door, variegated laser-cut steel railing panels, a curvilinear cast-glass kitchen counter, waterjet-cut aluminum light fixtures, and many custom furniture pieces. The house interior has been designed to be completely integral with the exterior. The living pavilion contains more than twelve pieces of custom furniture and lighting, creating a totality of the designed environment that recalls the idea of Gesamtkunstverk, as seen in the work of Josef Hoffman and the Viennese Secessionist movement in the early 20th century. The house has been designed from the start as a sustainable structure, with 40% higher insulation values than required by code, radiant concrete slab heating, efficient natural ventilation, large amounts of natural lighting, water-conserving plumbing fixtures, and locally sourced materials. Windows have high-performance LowE insulated glazing and are equipped with concealed shades. A radiant hydronic heat system with exposed concrete floors allows lower operating temperatures and higher occupant comfort levels. The concrete slabs conserve heat and provide great warmth and comfort for the feet. Deep roof overhangs, built-in shades and high operating clerestory windows are used to reduce heat gain in summer months. During the winter, the lower sun angle is able to penetrate into living spaces and passively warm the exposed concrete floor. Low VOC paints and stains have been used throughout the house. The high level of craft evident in the house reflects another key principle of sustainable design: build it well and make it last for many years! Photo by NIls Finne

Custom Home Exteriors

Oakley Home Builders

Oakley Home Builders is a custom home builder and remodeling company in the Chicago suburbs that has integrated distinctive home designs into surrounding communities, neighborhoods and coveted residential landscapes. Positioned as a flourishing Chicago western suburbs home builder, Oakley Home Builders demonstrates a passionate pursuit of detail-rich, value-driven design and efficient construction that provides homebuyers with a masterfully planned and executed living environment. Whether building on your site or one of our many available lots, Oakley Home Builders is recognized among Chicago western suburbs home builders for its excellent build-to-suit program. Guiding homebuyers through a simple, step-by-step process, we enhance the building experience by providing practical advice, flexible accommodations, and educational insight. But while we are mainly a home builder in Chicago suburbs, we also build luxurious beach homes in Naples, FL and along the shores of Lake Michigan in Indiana and Michigan's Harbor Country. In addition we serve as an expert suburban Chicago remodeling company catering to the communities of Downers Grove, Hinsdale, Naperville, Glen Ellyn, LaGrange, Western Springs, Elmhurst, and other west suburban locations.

Live Oaks Sanctuary

Barley|Pfeiffer Architecture

Alan Barley, AIA This soft hill country contemporary family home is nestled in a surrounding live oak sanctuary in Spicewood, Texas. A screened-in porch creates a relaxing and welcoming environment while the large windows flood the house with natural lighting. The large overhangs keep the hot Texas heat at bay. Energy efficient appliances and site specific open house plan allows for a spacious home while taking advantage of the prevailing breezes which decreases energy consumption. screened in porch, austin luxury home, austin custom home, barleypfeiffer architecture, barleypfeiffer, wood floors, sustainable design, soft hill contemporary, sleek design, pro work, modern, low voc paint, live oaks sanctuary, live oaks, interiors and consulting, house ideas, home planning, 5 star energy, hill country, high performance homes, green building, fun design, 5 star applance, find a pro, family home, elegance, efficient, custom-made, comprehensive sustainable architects, barley & pfeiffer architects,

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Energy Exquisite

LiLu Interiors

LiLu Interiors joined a team of industry professionals to pioneer a net zero energy consumption home in Minnesota. And together, they have made efficiency and sustainability feel right at home. The stunning creation of this client’s dream into reality harnesses more than enough electricity to sustain an entire residence, while also powering two vehicles. Not only is the home energy efficient, all finish and furnishing selections—along with plumbing, lighting, and hardware—were chosen with a conscious effort toward conservation, aging in place, and providing a healthy living environment. Which goes to show that protecting the world can begin inside our own front door. ------ Project designed by Minneapolis interior design studio LiLu Interiors. They serve the Minneapolis-St. Paul area including Wayzata, Edina, and Rochester, and they travel to the far-flung destinations that their upscale clientele own second homes in. ----- For more about LiLu Interiors, click here: https://www.liluinteriors.com/ ----- To learn more about this project, click here: https://www.liluinteriors.com/blog/portfolio-items/energy-exquisite/

This "Palatial Villa" is an architectural statement, amidst a sprawling country setting. An elegant, modern revival of the Spanish Tudor style, the high-contrast white stucco and black details pop against the natural backdrop. Round and segmental arches lend an air of European antiquity, and fenestrations are placed providently, to capture picturesque views for the occupants. Massive glass sliding doors and modern high-performance, low-e windows, bathe the interior with natural light and at the same time increase efficiency, with the highest-rated air-leakage and water-penetration resistance. Inside, the lofty ceilings, rustic beam detailing, and wide-open floor-plan inspire a vast feel. Patterned repetition of dark wood and iron elements unify the interior design, creating a dynamic contrast with the white, plaster faux-finish walls. A high-efficiency furnace, heat pump, heated floors, and Control 4 automated environmental controls ensure occupant comfort and safety. The kitchen, wine cellar, and adjoining great room flow naturally into an outdoor entertainment area. A private gym and his-and-hers offices round out a long list of luxury amenities. With thoughtful design and the highest quality craftsmanship in every detail, Palatial Villa stands out as a gleaming jewel, set amongst charming countryside environs.

Versa Villa

Versa Homes

Manhattan Comfort Madison 1.0 35-7/9" Round Accent Coffee Table

HomeClick

Manhattan Comfort Madison 1.0 35-7/9" Round Accent Coffee Table Quality, design and efficiency come together in the Madison 1.0 Coffee Table by Manhattan Comfort, its round top offering generous space, its glossy modern colors, sleek shape and geometric-inspired base a visually pleasing addition to any contemporary area. Choose between different funky stand out colors and warm and inviting modern finishes to compliment your living environment.

Fresh and Clean Laundry Room in Pewaukee

DryAway by Jilidoni Designs

DryAway’s revolutionary and patented design is the smarter way to dry your clothes. DryAway is a series of drying racks that retract out of sight and out of the way, that saves you money while protecting the environment and your clothes! Easily installed in 2, 4, 6 or 8 frames and available in five colors. Visit us online at DryAway.net or Call us today! 855-379-2929

Modern Minimalist Home Featuring Japanese Styling in Tustin Hills

M & J Star Construction, Inc.

This modern minimalist home remodel seamlessly blends clean lines, open spaces, and functional design to create a tranquil and uncluttered living environment. Every element was carefully curated to prioritize simplicity and efficiency while enhancing the home's natural beauty. Upon entry, you’re greeted by an open-concept living area that feels expansive yet intimate, with large windows allowing natural light to flood the space. The neutral color palette of whites, soft grays, and warm wood tones creates a soothing atmosphere, while strategic use of texture—through polished concrete floors, matte metal finishes, and natural stone accents—adds depth and sophistication. The kitchen features sleek cabinetry with hidden handles, a minimalist backsplash, and top-of-the-line appliances that blend seamlessly into the space. An oversized kitchen island serves as both a functional workspace and a social hub, making it ideal for entertaining. In the living room, low-profile furniture with clean, geometric shapes encourages a sense of openness and flow. Thoughtful design details, like recessed lighting and integrated shelving, provide storage solutions without sacrificing the aesthetic of simplicity.

New Construction (#3)

Santech Construction Corp.

This modern apartment renovation project, completed by Santech Construction, focused on upgrading existing units to meet contemporary living standards. The work included updated layouts, high-quality finishes, and improved functionality throughout each unit. Modern materials and fixtures were selected to enhance the aesthetic appeal, energy efficiency, and overall comfort of the living spaces. The renovation was designed to increase long-term property value while offering residents a fresh, modern environment in the heart of Philadelphia. You can read more about our previous renovation projects on our website - https://santechconstruction.com/residential/

Modern Seattle Renovation

User

A custom D1 Entry Door flanked by substantial sidelights was designed in a bold rust color to highlight the entrance to the home and provide a sense of welcoming. The vibrant entrance sets a tone of excitement and vivacity that is carried throughout the home. A combination of cedar, concrete, and metal siding grounds the home in its environment, provides architectural interest, and enlists massing to double as an ornament. The overall effect is a design that remains understated among the diverse vegetation but also serves enough eye-catching design elements to delight the senses.

The steeply sloped site resulted in a compact entrance and drive. The entry court is well landscaped; the entry location is obvious and the entry is welcoming. Good landscaping nestled this Denver-area, Colorado house into the hillside while creating spaces for outdoor living space. An open floor plan accommodated the owner’s lifestyle goals while tying all public living spaces together. Natural material selections of rough, natural stone and textured stucco, a concrete tile roof, along with natural, earthy colors, accentuate the hilly terrain and reflect the regional environment. Work completed while at SBA.

Seward Park Industrial

H2D Architecture + Design

The living room was designed as an open, light-filled space with a strong connection to the outdoors. Expansive lift-and-slide doors span the full width of the wall, opening directly to the patio and allowing the interior living space to flow seamlessly outside. Exposed steel posts and beams express the structural framework of the home, adding rhythm and industrial character throughout the space. Above, a dramatic vaulted ceiling highlights the structural roof system constructed with SIPs panels, creating both visual warmth and high-performance energy efficiency. A custom floor-to-ceiling steel-clad fireplace serves as a sculptural focal point within the room, contrasting against the smooth polished concrete floors and clean modern detailing. The layered combination of steel, concrete, wood, and glass creates a refined yet comfortable living environment, thoughtfully designed by H2D Architecture + Design. + Architecture: H2D Architecture + Design www.h2darchitects.com + Interior Design: Karlee Coble Interiors + Built by: Carlisle Classic Homes + Photography: Christopher Nelson Photography

Wellesley Green Home

ZeroEnergy Design

This LEED Platinum certified house reflects the homeowner's desire for an exceptionally healthy and comfortable living environment, within a traditional neighborhood. INFILL SITE. The family, who moved from another area of Wellesley, sought out this property to be within walking distance of the high school and downtown area. An existing structure on the tight lot was removed to make way for the new home. 84% of the construction waste, from both the previous structure and the new home, was diverted from a landfill. ZED designed to preserve the existing mature trees on the perimeter of the property to minimize site impacts, and to maintain the character of the neighborhood as well as privacy on the site. EXTERIOR EXPRESSION. The street facade of the home relates to the local New England vernacular. The rear uses contemporary language, a nod to the family’s Californian roots, to incorporate a roof deck, solar panels, outdoor living space, and the backyard swimming pool. ZED’s careful planning avoided to the need to face the garage doors towards the street, a common syndrome of a narrow lot. THOUGHTFUL SPACE. Homes with dual entries can often result in duplicate and unused spaces. In this home, the everyday and formal entry areas are one and the same; the front and garage doors share the entry program of coat closets, mudroom storage with bench for removing your shoes, and a laundry room with generous closets for the children's sporting equipment. The entry area leads directly to the living space, encompassing the kitchen, dining and sitting area areas in an L-shaped open plan arrangement. The kitchen is placed at the south-west corner of the space to allow for a strong connection to the dining, sitting and outdoor living spaces. A fire pit on the deck satisfies the family’s desire for an open flame while a sealed gas fireplace is used indoors - ZED’s preference after omitting gas burning appliances completely from an airtight home. A small study, with a window seat, is conveniently located just off of the living space. A first floor guest bedroom includes an accessible bathroom for aging visitors and can be used as a master suite to accommodate aging in place. HEALTHY LIVING. The client requested a home that was easy to clean and would provide a respite from seasonal allergies and common contaminants that are found in many indoor spaces. ZED selected easy to clean solid surface flooring throughout, provided ample space for cleaning supplies on each floor, and designed a mechanical system with ventilation that provides a constant supply of fresh outdoor air. ZED selected durable materials, finishes, cabinetry, and casework with low or no volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and no added urea formaldehyde. YEAR-ROUND COMFORT. The home is super insulated and air-tight, paired with high performance triple-paned windows, to ensure it is draft-free throughout the winter (even when in front of the large windows and doors). ZED designed a right-sized heating and cooling system to pair with the thermally improved building enclosure to ensure year-round comfort. The glazing on the home maximizes passive solar gains, and facilitates cross ventilation and daylighting. ENERGY EFFICIENT. As one of the most energy efficient houses built to date in Wellesley, the home highlights a practical solution for Massachusetts. First, the building enclosure reduces the largest energy requirement for typical houses (heating). Super-insulation, exceptional air sealing, a thermally broken wall assembly, triple pane windows, and passive solar gain combine for a sizable heating load reduction. Second, within the house only efficient systems consume energy. These include an air source heat pump for heating & cooling, a heat pump hot water heater, LED lighting, energy recovery ventilation, and high efficiency appliances. Lastly, photovoltaics provide renewable energy help offset energy consumption. The result is an 89% reduction in energy use compared to a similar brand new home built to code requirements. RESILIENT. The home will fare well in extreme weather events. During a winter power outage, heat loss will be very slow due to the super-insulated and airtight envelope– taking multiple days to drop to 60 degrees even with no heat source. An engineered drainage system, paired with careful the detailing of the foundation, will help to keep the finished basement dry. A generator will provide full operation of the all-electric house during a power outage. OVERALL. The home is a reflection of the family goals and an expression of their values, beautifully enabling health, comfort, safety, resilience, and utility, all while respecting the planet. ZED - Architect & Mechanical Designer Bevilacqua Builders Inc - Contractor Creative Land & Water Engineering - Civil Engineering Barbara Peterson Landscape - Landscape Design Nest & Company - Interior Furnishings Eric Roth Photography - Photography