Ciro Coelho Photography
Contemporary beige one-story exterior home idea in Santa Barbara with a metal roof

Example of a large backyard concrete paver and rectangular pool house design in DC Metro

Nat Rea
Kitchen/dining room combo - mid-sized contemporary medium tone wood floor and brown floor kitchen/dining room combo idea in Other with beige walls and no fireplace

Ron Blunt Photography
Example of a small beach style home design design in DC Metro

Calista Chandler Photography
Example of an eclectic kitchen design in San Francisco

Photo: Bonnie McCarthy © 2015 Houzz
Entryway - contemporary entryway idea in Los Angeles

This passive solar cottage included energy efficiency and sustainability strategies across all divisions of construction, from the LEED concrete mixes to the custom designed bio-mass wood boiler hydronic heating system. The clients – a forestry consultant and an energy policy advocate – drove the design and construction of the project to be an extremely unique and functional building. Fundamentals of passive solar design and sun-tempering were the basis around which the major project parameters were established. The active space conditioning and domestic hot water is provided by a visible-flame architectural wood boiler, backed up by a bio-diesel boiler. Other features include decorative polished concrete slab floors; locally-sourced hybrid timber frame components; custom sawn northern white cedar beveled siding; oak stair treads sourced from the property; heart pine flooring for Fall River mill timbers; super-insulated assemblies with cellulose and insulated sheathing; and reclaimed, restored lighting and plumbing fixtures.

Photography by: Kevin Meechan
Urban home design photo in Denver

This article is posted here with the consent of the author. The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy, position, view, or opinion of Crestron Electronics, Inc., or of any of its employees. Crestron Electronics is not responsible for, and does not verify the accuracy of, any of the information contained in this article. By Jeff Singer The “smart” revolution began several years ago with smartphones (a.k.a phones) and has extended in recent years to thermostats, doorbells, alarm systems, and kitchen appliances. Smart devices are so ubiquitous that the term “smart” is overused to the point that it is almost meaningless. Companies are eager to jump on the bandwagon and claim their products are “smart,” and consumers proudly claim they have a smart home because they have lighting control. Misconceptions about smart homes are prevalent and create confusion in the marketplace. This can have deleterious effects on businesses and underserve consumers. Here are seven of the most popular misconceptions about smart homes: 1. Apps are smart Apps are convenient and easy to use. Yes, it seems there’s an app for everything. People expect to be able to download an app and do just about anything. App developers and many companies do not disavow consumers of this myth. On the contrary, they promote this idea with carefully worded descriptions. The promise of having the world at your fingertips for $1.99 is very enticing. Although it sounds too good to be true, it is also too good to pass up for many people. This leads to undervaluing home control and disappointment when the apps don’t work, which undermines confidence in our industry. The fact is that apps are not smart. They do not control anything. They must connect to and communicate with a control system or cloud service that processes, prioritizes, and executes commands. That’s the real magic and what most people do not understand. 2. Smart devices work together With so many smart appliances and devices on the market today, it’s understandable that the average consumer might think that they actually communicate and work together. This is simply not the case. Smart devices are not that smart. They are designed and manufactured by different, often competing, companies. There are no national or industry standards governing these products. Even if they all operate using Wi-Fi® communications, that doesn’t mean they work together. Some companies promote a home control platform, which unites different devices from different companies – in theory. The platform is yet another third-party software totally dependent on other companies developing APIs and writing control modules for their hardware to run on that piece of software. The devices are not independently compatible. Also, when updates are made to either the hardware or the software, functionality may be affected for some period. That’s a nice way of saying the device or system won’t work and there’s no way of knowing for how long. 3. It’s a DIY project Which brings us to the next myth, which is that the average person can do it themselves. Unless you are a skilled professional, I would not advise taking on a smart home project. You want to make a light turn on and off with your Alexa® or Google Assistant™ virtual assistant software, go for it. A smart home takes much more planning and expertise. I have no problem changing a light bulb or hanging a light fixture in my dining room; however, I am not going to rewire my house. I may change the flush valve in my toilet, but I’m not going to replace the pipes in my house. You get it. Integrating devices and systems, establishing different zones, creating scenes, designing the UI with a balance between control, feedback, and simplicity – all takes experience and skill. 4. Need a programmer to make changes Early adopters may have experienced the pain of trying to make a simple change or update to their home control system. Years ago, if the cable provider changed the channel line-up, the homeowner would have to call the dealer or programmer to make an appointment for them to come out to the house to reprogram the system. The system wouldn’t work as expected until it was updated, which often took several days and beaucoup bucks. Not anymore. Technology has evolved so now it’s easy for system owners to change favorite channels, create scenes, rename buttons, update images, and more. While a professional is needed for the initial installation and setup, the system is easy to manage once it’s up and running. This makes life so much easier for both dealer and customer. 5. Tech becomes obsolete quickly Similar to updating the UI, updating firmware or hardware used to be a stressful process. A smart home should be intelligent enough to update itself. Apps don’t become obsolete. Updates are constantly pushed out from the cloud, making them better all the time. The same is true for a good smart home system. New features, functions, and device support gets added in the background consistently, so the system you installed (or purchased) yesterday gets better over time. Swapping out decorative elements, such as keypads, dimmers, and touch screens is also seamless. When a new device is added, all the settings are pulled down from the cloud and it just works. No system interruptions. No sunk costs. No imposing house calls. No surprise bills. 6. Lighting control saves energy and money Lighting control is one of the most popular smart systems, but it takes more than just one system to make a home smart. On the surface, it makes sense that if you dim the lights ten percent, then you save ten percent of energy costs. If the shades are raised during the day to take advantage of sunlight so the lights don’t need to be on (or at least not 100%), but that causes the room temperature to rise a few degrees, which triggers the air conditioner to run longer and more often, was energy usage (or cost) reduced? A smart home integrates all the various systems and technology to optimize comfort, convenience, safety, and sometimes energy. 7. Home technology is easy to hack Security is at the forefront of people’s minds these days. Personal identities are stolen; email accounts hacked; private photos publicized; and more. A smart home must outsmart those who don’t respect privacy. Crestron control systems adhere to the strictest security standards. The same Crestron control system that goes into a home is also installed in secure government and military facilities, global banking institutions, hospitals, and other mission critical applications. When installed correctly by a trained professional, a Crestron smart home is the gold standard for security, comfort, and convenience.

In a world where environmental concerns have reached a critical juncture, the need for eco-conscious living has never been more pressing. Ameen Salous, a visionary leader and a prominent advocate for sustainability, stands as a shining example of how individuals can adopt a greener, more eco-friendly lifestyle. This article will delve into the eco-conscious lifestyle of Ameen Salous, exploring seven practical tips that can inspire anyone to embark on their journey towards a more sustainable way of living. Introduction: Ameen Salous - A Visionary Champion of Sustainability Ameen Salous is a name synonymous with innovation, but his influence extends far beyond technological advancements. His commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility is a core facet of his identity. Ameen's eco-conscious lifestyle serves as a beacon of hope in a world grappling with the consequences of climate change and environmental degradation. As we explore his approach to green living, we can glean valuable insights into how each of us can make a positive impact on the planet. 1. Embrace Renewable Energy Sources One of the cornerstones of Ameen Salous's eco-conscious lifestyle is his unwavering support for renewable energy sources. He recognizes the vital role these sources play in reducing our carbon footprint and mitigating climate change. Ameen's advocacy for renewable energy technologies, such as solar and wind power, is not only inspiring but also serves as a practical example for individuals looking to reduce their reliance on fossil fuels. Actionable Tip: Consider installing solar panels on your property, invest in energy-efficient appliances, and explore green energy options provided by your utility company. 2. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle The mantra of "reduce, reuse, recycle" has become a fundamental principle of eco-conscious living, and Ameen Salous is a staunch advocate for this approach. He emphasizes the importance of minimizing waste and finding creative ways to repurpose items rather than sending them to landfills. By adopting this mindset, Ameen has significantly reduced his environmental footprint. Actionable Tip: Practice responsible waste management by recycling paper, plastics, and glass. Also, look for ways to upcycle or repurpose items you no longer need. 3. Sustainable Transportation Choices Ameen Salous is a proponent of sustainable transportation methods. He recognizes that the transportation sector is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. To reduce his impact, he promotes eco-friendly alternatives such as electric vehicles, public transit, and carpooling. Ameen's choice to drive electric vehicles reflects his commitment to reducing air pollution and dependence on fossil fuels. Actionable Tip: Consider switching to an electric or hybrid vehicle, use public transportation when possible, and explore options for carpooling or ridesharing to reduce your carbon footprint. 4. Support Sustainable Agriculture Ameen Salous is acutely aware of the environmental impact of our food choices. He advocates for supporting sustainable agriculture practices, such as organic farming and locally sourced produce. Ameen's commitment to a plant-based diet further reduces his carbon footprint, as plant-based diets generally have a lower environmental impact compared to diets heavy in animal products. Actionable Tip: Incorporate more plant-based foods into your diet, buy locally grown and organic produce when available, and consider starting a small garden to grow your own vegetables and herbs. 5. Conserve Water Water conservation is another key aspect of Ameen Salous's eco-conscious lifestyle. He understands the importance of preserving this precious resource in the face of increasing water scarcity worldwide. Ameen's commitment to water conservation includes installing water-saving fixtures, fixing leaks promptly, and minimizing water usage in everyday activities. Actionable Tip: Install low-flow showerheads and faucets, fix any leaks in your plumbing, collect rainwater for outdoor use, and be mindful of water usage when doing everyday tasks like washing dishes or doing laundry. 6. Opt for Sustainable Home Design Ameen Salous's commitment to an eco-conscious lifestyle extends to his home. He believes that sustainable home design can significantly reduce energy consumption and environmental impact. Ameen has incorporated features such as energy-efficient insulation, LED lighting, and smart thermostats into his home to increase its energy efficiency. Actionable Tip: Consider making energy-efficient upgrades to your home, such as adding insulation, installing energy-efficient windows, and using programmable thermostats to reduce energy consumption. 7. Environmental Advocacy and Education Perhaps one of the most impactful aspects of Ameen Salous's eco-conscious lifestyle is his dedication to environmental advocacy and education. He recognizes that raising awareness and inspiring others to take action are essential steps in addressing environmental challenges. Ameen actively engages with his community and the broader public to promote sustainable living practices and advocate for policies that protect the environment. Actionable Tip: Get involved in environmental advocacy in your community, participate in local clean-up events, and educate yourself and others about the importance of sustainable living. Conclusion: Ameen Salous's Green Living Legacy Ameen Salous's eco-conscious lifestyle serves as a testament to the power of individual actions in the fight against climate change and environmental degradation. His commitment to sustainability, renewable energy, and responsible consumption inspires us all to make more environmentally conscious choices in our daily lives. By embracing these seven tips for going green, we can follow in the footsteps of Ameen Salous and contribute to a more sustainable and eco-friendly future for our planet.

The 800 square-foot guest cottage is located on the footprint of a slightly smaller original cottage that was built three generations ago. With a failing structural system, the existing cottage had a very low sloping roof, did not provide for a lot of natural light and was not energy efficient. Utilizing high performing windows, doors and insulation, a total transformation of the structure occurred. A combination of clapboard and shingle siding, with standout touches of modern elegance, welcomes guests to their cozy retreat. The cottage consists of the main living area, a small galley style kitchen, master bedroom, bathroom and sleeping loft above. The loft construction was a timber frame system utilizing recycled timbers from the Balsams Resort in northern New Hampshire. The stones for the front steps and hearth of the fireplace came from the existing cottage’s granite chimney. Stylistically, the design is a mix of both a “Cottage” style of architecture with some clean and simple “Tech” style features, such as the air-craft cable and metal railing system. The color red was used as a highlight feature, accentuated on the shed dormer window exterior frames, the vintage looking range, the sliding doors and other interior elements. Photographer: John Hession

This passive solar cottage included energy efficiency and sustainability strategies across all divisions of construction, from the LEED concrete mixes to the custom designed bio-mass wood boiler hydronic heating system. The clients – a forestry consultant and an energy policy advocate – drove the design and construction of the project to be an extremely unique and functional building. Fundamentals of passive solar design and sun-tempering were the basis around which the major project parameters were established. The active space conditioning and domestic hot water is provided by a visible-flame architectural wood boiler, backed up by a bio-diesel boiler. Other features include decorative polished concrete slab floors; locally-sourced hybrid timber frame components; custom sawn northern white cedar beveled siding; oak stair treads sourced from the property; heart pine flooring for Fall River mill timbers; super-insulated assemblies with cellulose and insulated sheathing; and reclaimed, restored lighting and plumbing fixtures.

Light fixture with direct emission, with fluorescent sources • Available with base or fixed support (pivot) made up of mass-coloured concrete • Diffuser in mass-pigmented polypropylene, screen in light-diffusing silkscreened methacrylate, reflector in painted aluminum • Mobile-arm structure in extruded EN-AW-6060 aluminum with bright anodizing treat¬ment • Polished-painted articulations in die-cast EN-AB 46100 aluminum • Adjustment system in AISI 316 stainless steel • Silicone seal gaskets • Suitable for watertight connection • Electronic ballast • c.UL.us listed Lead time: 2 - 4 weeks Lamping explanation: INC = incandescent FLU = fluorescent HAL = 120V halogen LV HAL = 12V halogen MH = metal halide SBF = self-ballasted fluorescent LED = light emitting diode All lamps are included with the fixtures Artemide's design and research team focuses on developing quality and long-lasting products. Utilization of recyclable materials is high priority in our process of conceiving new design. 80% of our lights are energy efficient fluorescent or LED lighting. But what's more green than having a beautifully crafted light that continues to function well and looks stunning decades from now The Artemide light has never been solely a function of seeing, or an opportunity for formal experimentation with lamps as objects. For more than forty years, Artemide has aimed to propose light as a companion to people, as a source of physical pleasure and mental comfort. Artemide has done so, with different work groups, searching through the whole design process, starting with a declaration of values - The human light. Beyond the definition, the human light is intelligent light. A light that knows it has to relate to people, accompanying them in their daily activities. That is why Artemide's attention today is concentrated on the concept of the context of life, understood as a specific microenvironment in which an event occurs where one or more persons are the protagonist, every context of life can be associated with different light contexts, or the different atmospheres of light characterized by the activities that, at various moments of the day, have us as protagonists, starting from these contexts and the lighting conditions that characterize them, Artemide proposes products capable of meeting people's multiple needs and offering the light performance characteristics most suited to each moment of life, it is light that is flexible and adaptable, which produces the optimum visual precision, and consumes the minimum environmental resources, it is Artemide light. The Artemide group, founded by Ernesto Gismondi in 1959, today operates throughout the world, with 16 subsidiaries and affiliated companies, and 35 exclusive distributors. They have production centers in Italy, France, Germany, the USA, Hungary and the Czech Republic. In a policy aimed at satisfying all lighting needs, the Artemide group has recently acquired companies that reinforce its position as a world leader and further diversifies the offerings. For contexts of life, Artemide offers not only lamps for moments of relaxation at home, but also large sophisticated installations for lighting public and private professional activities. Technological and productive expertise is achieved through research and development centers, with the product planning and engineering section, laboratories for technical conformity and self-certification tests, and production units equipped with avant-garde processes. A production structure that can offer expertise in the processing of traditional materials such as glass, as well as the capacity for innovation with recently introduced materials such as titanium. Lighting performance characteristics extend from a light with atmosphere, variable, colored, to the most precise of lights for community environments. The vast range of options reflects the commitment of the whole organization to provide a product guaranteed by the Artemide brand, throughout the world, with an image that is strong and consistent - That of a leader in the lighting industry. Rezek, an Artemide brand, with product development and manufacturing in the United States. Founded by designer Ron Rezek in 1978, the Rezek company has gained strong recognition and appreciation among the architectural and interior design community for the distinctly creative design and quality construction of its American made lighting products for residential and commercial applications.

This passive solar cottage included energy efficiency and sustainability strategies across all divisions of construction, from the LEED concrete mixes to the custom designed bio-mass wood boiler hydronic heating system. The clients – a forestry consultant and an energy policy advocate – drove the design and construction of the project to be an extremely unique and functional building. Fundamentals of passive solar design and sun-tempering were the basis around which the major project parameters were established. The active space conditioning and domestic hot water is provided by a visible-flame architectural wood boiler, backed up by a bio-diesel boiler. Other features include decorative polished concrete slab floors; locally-sourced hybrid timber frame components; custom sawn northern white cedar beveled siding; oak stair treads sourced from the property; heart pine flooring for Fall River mill timbers; super-insulated assemblies with cellulose and insulated sheathing; and reclaimed, restored lighting and plumbing fixtures.

✨ A Love Letter to Nature’s Elegance Inspired by the calla lily—a symbol of purity and rebirth—this pearl-adorned cuff bracelet is for the free-spirited romantic. Each piece is handcrafted to celebrate life’s meaningful moments, blending organic beauty with timeless artistry. ------------------------------------- ? Key Details: • Materials: Premium gold-plated brass (lead-free, nickel-safe) + natural freshwater pearl. • Size: Adjustable open • Design: Delicate calla lily bloom cradling a lustrous pearl, brushed gold finish. ----------------------------------- ? Why You’ll Love It: ✓ Lightweight & comfortable for all-day wear (even over gloves!). ✓ Versatile elegance—dress it up for weddings or down for brunch. ✓ Thoughtfully sized to layer with stackable bangles. --------------------------------- ? Perfect For: Bridesmaids • Mother’s Day • Anniversary • Self-love treats Boho brides • Nature lovers • Minimalist jewelry collectors ----------------------------------- ⏳ TURNAROUND & SHIPPING Handmade with Care • Ready to Ship in 2–3 Business Days Each Bangle is crafted to order with intention. Once shipped, delivery times vary by location and shipping method. ✈️ Need it Faster? Message us before ordering for rush processing (additional fee applies). ------------------------------------------ ♥ PACKAGING ♥ Your bangle arrives in: • A sturdy, gift-ready box to protect its energy. • A handwritten note ? Eco-Conscious: We use recycled/reusable materials whenever possible. -------------------------------------------- ? CARE GUIDE ? • Clean silver with a soft cloth (avoid chemicals/submerging in water). • Store in the included pouch to prevent tarnish. ------------------------------------------- ? HASSLE-FREE RETURNS 14-Day Return Policy If your bangle isn’t a perfect match, return it unworn in original packaging within 14 days for a refund/exchange. To Initiate a Return: 1️⃣ Contact us within 7 days of delivery. 2️⃣ Ship it back within 14 days. ------------------------------------------ ? YOUR SATISFACTION MATTERS Questions or special requests? We’re here to help! Thank you for supporting handmade, intentional jewelry.