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PublisherIn 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.
Thomas Roszak Architecture, LLCPhoto credit: Scott McDonald @ Hedrich Blessing
7RR-Ecohome:
The design objective was to build a house for a couple recently married who both had kids from previous marriages. How to bridge two families together?
The design looks forward in terms of how people live today. The home is an experiment in transparency and solid form; removing borders and edges from outside to inside the house, and to really depict “flowing and endless space”. The house floor plan is derived by pushing and pulling the house’s form to maximize the backyard and minimize the public front yard while welcoming the sun in key rooms by rotating the house 45-degrees to true north. The angular form of the house is a result of the family’s program, the zoning rules, the lot’s attributes, and the sun’s path. We wanted to construct a house that is smart and efficient in terms of construction and energy, both in terms of the building and the user. We could tell a story of how the house is built in terms of the constructability, structure and enclosure, with a nod to Japanese wood construction in the method in which the siding is installed and the exposed interior beams are placed in the double height space. We engineered the house to be smart which not only looks modern but acts modern; every aspect of user control is simplified to a digital touch button, whether lights, shades, blinds, HVAC, communication, audio, video, or security. We developed a planning module based on a 6-foot square room size and a 6-foot wide connector called an interstitial space for hallways, bathrooms, stairs and mechanical, which keeps the rooms pure and uncluttered. The house is 6,200 SF of livable space, plus garage and basement gallery for a total of 9,200 SF. A large formal foyer celebrates the entry and opens up to the living, dining, kitchen and family rooms all focused on the rear garden. The east side of the second floor is the Master wing and a center bridge connects it to the kid’s wing on the west. Second floor terraces and sunscreens provide views and shade in this suburban setting. The playful mathematical grid of the house in the x, y and z axis also extends into the layout of the trees and hard-scapes, all centered on a suburban one-acre lot.
Many green attributes were designed into the home; Ipe wood sunscreens and window shades block out unwanted solar gain in summer, but allow winter sun in. Patio door and operable windows provide ample opportunity for natural ventilation throughout the open floor plan. Minimal windows on east and west sides to reduce heat loss in winter and unwanted gains in summer. Open floor plan and large window expanse reduces lighting demands and maximizes available daylight. Skylights provide natural light to the basement rooms. Durable, low-maintenance exterior materials include stone, ipe wood siding and decking, and concrete roof pavers. Design is based on a 2' planning grid to minimize construction waste. Basement foundation walls and slab are highly insulated. FSC-certified walnut wood flooring was used. Light colored concrete roof pavers to reduce cooling loads by as much as 15%. 2x6 framing allows for more insulation and energy savings. Super efficient windows have low-E argon gas filled units, and thermally insulated aluminum frames. Permeable brick and stone pavers reduce the site’s storm-water runoff. Countertops use recycled composite materials. Energy-Star rated furnaces and smart thermostats are located throughout the house to minimize duct runs and avoid energy loss. Energy-Star rated boiler that heats up both radiant floors and domestic hot water. Low-flow toilets and plumbing fixtures are used to conserve water usage. No VOC finish options and direct venting fireplaces maintain a high interior air quality. Smart home system controls lighting, HVAC, and shades to better manage energy use. Plumbing runs through interior walls reducing possibilities of heat loss and freezing problems. A large food pantry was placed next to kitchen to reduce trips to the grocery store. Home office reduces need for automobile transit and associated CO2 footprint. Plan allows for aging in place, with guest suite than can become the master suite, with no need to move as family members mature.
Wood & Iron LampsGreat simple mason jar bathroom vanity lighting. Available with 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5 lights and many different finishes.
Inspiration for a small rustic bathroom remodel in Montreal
Inspiration for a small rustic bathroom remodel in Montreal
Find the right local pro for your project
Chelsea Building GroupThe multi-use island is a modern twist on the eat-in kitchen. The casual dining table is a seamless extension of the kitchen and its location means the island always remains open for prep and food serving. The U-shape provides ample storage and an oversized casement window provides the focal point to the room.
With ReAlta, we are introducing for the first time in Charlotte a fully solar community.
Each beautifully detailed home will incorporate low profile solar panels that will collect the sun’s rays to significantly offset the home’s energy usage. Combined with our industry-leading Home Efficiency Ratings (HERS), these solar systems will save a ReAlta homeowner thousands over the life of the home.
Credit: Brendan Kahm
Authenticity, LLCArchitect: Michelle Penn, AIA This barn home is modeled after an existing Nebraska barn in Lancaster County. Heating is by passive solar design, supplemented by a geothermal radiant floor system. Cooling uses a whole house fan and a passive air flow system. The passive system is created with the cupola, windows, transoms and passive venting for cooling, rather than a forced air system. Because fresh water is not available from a well nor county water, water will be provided by rainwater harvesting. The water will be collected from a gutter system, go into a series of nine holding tanks and then go through a water filtration system to provide drinking water for the home. A greywater system will then recycle water from the sinks and showers to be reused in the toilets. Low-flow fixtures will be used throughout the home to conserve water.
Photo Credits: Jackson Studios
Hi Solutions- The Autonomous Home CompanyAutomated Home Lighting: Revolutionize Your Home with Smart Lighting Solutions
Transform your living space with automated home lighting, the latest innovation in smart home technology. Automated lighting systems provide convenience, energy efficiency, and enhanced security for homeowners. With smart lighting solutions, you can control your home's lighting from anywhere using voice commands, motion, smartphone app, , or automated schedules.
Benefits of Automated Home Lighting
Energy Efficiency: Save on energy bills by using smart bulbs and automated lighting controls that adjust brightness based on natural light or occupancy.
Convenience: Easily manage your home's lighting with smart home integration, including compatibility with Josh AI, Control 4, Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and other voice-activated systems.
Enhanced Security: Program your lights to turn on and off at specific times to give the appearance of occupancy, even when you're away, deterring potential intruders.
Customization: Create personalized lighting scenes for different moods and activities, such as reading, watching movies, or hosting a dinner party.
Features of Smart Lighting Systems
Remote Control: Adjust lighting settings from anywhere using your smartphone or tablet.
Voice Activation: Use voice commands to control your lights with popular smart home assistants like Josh AI, Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.
Scheduling: Set schedules for your lights to turn on and off at specific times, enhancing convenience and security.
Energy Monitoring: Track energy usage and optimize lighting to reduce your carbon footprint.
Why Choose Automated Home Lighting?
Investing in automated home lighting not only adds convenience and style to your home but also increases its value. Smart lighting systems are easy to install and can be customized to meet your unique needs and preferences. Whether you're looking to improve energy efficiency, enhance home security, or simply enjoy the convenience of modern technology, automated home lighting is the perfect solution.
Universal Appliance and Kitchen CenterSimply Revolutionary
The beautiful, patented stainless steel tap is designed to be built into any tabletop. The simplicity of the TopBrewer fits elegantly into any surroundings and allows you to focus on a more direct contact with your customers or clients. The TopBrewer brews a perfect cup of fresh-bean coffee – every time.
Put coffee in the centre of your workplace.
Imagine a product which adapts to your needs. The TopBrewer is designed to seamlessly become a part of your regular work environment, and enhances it. If you're looking for cold water, juice or a piping hot espresso, this is the solution for you. Your café, reception or meeting area will never be the same. With the TopBrewer you take up only 1% counterspace in return for 100% customer satisfaction. Combine multiple TopBrewer units, to cater for all your needs, easily adapting to your environment and allowing for several servings simultaneously.
Low energy usage.
Not only does the TopBrewer have more drinks than any other coffeebrewer. It offers higher performance than any previous coffeebrewers, it’s also more energy efficient, using up to 90 per cent less energy in the idle state than our competitors.
Friendly to the environment.
The coffee-brewer is mostly produced using steel. Steel is the most recycled material in the world, and in it's recycled state it saves 80% CO2 emissions and 75% of the energy needed to create steel from raw materials. Steel can be recycled infinitively without loss of strength or durability.
Power saving - standby timer.
With most units in the coffee world, they very rarely want to switch them to standby or even switch them completely off. The reason being there is a internal water tank which is being kept warm. In the TopBrewer, we encourage you to use the powersaving mode, the unit is designed so that from a cold start to the first brew it only takes 45 sec. The schedule system within the machine ensures, that it will not be using energy when you dont desire it.
Single touch brewing.
One-Click function for fast and easy operations with a clean surfaced animation - interacting with our app and brewing a cup of coffee, is all part of the coffee experience.
Brew status always in presence:
As a user of the TopBrewer, you will always be presented with the current state. Is the machine ready to brew, queuing a drink or is it in the process of grinding your fresh beans. No matter what happens in the process, the TopBrewer will inform you of it's current activity.
Dynia ArchitectsLocated near the foot of the Teton Mountains, the site and a modest program led to placing the main house and guest quarters in separate buildings configured to form outdoor spaces. With mountains rising to the northwest and a stream cutting through the southeast corner of the lot, this placement of the main house and guest cabin distinctly responds to the two scales of the site. The public and private wings of the main house define a courtyard, which is visually enclosed by the prominence of the mountains beyond. At a more intimate scale, the garden walls of the main house and guest cabin create a private entry court.
A concrete wall, which extends into the landscape marks the entrance and defines the circulation of the main house. Public spaces open off this axis toward the views to the mountains. Secondary spaces branch off to the north and south forming the private wing of the main house and the guest cabin. With regulation restricting the roof forms, the structural trusses are shaped to lift the ceiling planes toward light and the views of the landscape.
A.I.A Wyoming Chapter Design Award of Citation 2017
Project Year: 2008
Thomas Roszak Architecture, LLCPhoto credit: Scott McDonald @ Hedrich Blessing
7RR-Ecohome:
The design objective was to build a house for a couple recently married who both had kids from previous marriages. How to bridge two families together?
The design looks forward in terms of how people live today. The home is an experiment in transparency and solid form; removing borders and edges from outside to inside the house, and to really depict “flowing and endless space”. The house floor plan is derived by pushing and pulling the house’s form to maximize the backyard and minimize the public front yard while welcoming the sun in key rooms by rotating the house 45-degrees to true north. The angular form of the house is a result of the family’s program, the zoning rules, the lot’s attributes, and the sun’s path. We wanted to construct a house that is smart and efficient in terms of construction and energy, both in terms of the building and the user. We could tell a story of how the house is built in terms of the constructability, structure and enclosure, with a nod to Japanese wood construction in the method in which the siding is installed and the exposed interior beams are placed in the double height space. We engineered the house to be smart which not only looks modern but acts modern; every aspect of user control is simplified to a digital touch button, whether lights, shades, blinds, HVAC, communication, audio, video, or security. We developed a planning module based on a 6-foot square room size and a 6-foot wide connector called an interstitial space for hallways, bathrooms, stairs and mechanical, which keeps the rooms pure and uncluttered. The house is 6,200 SF of livable space, plus garage and basement gallery for a total of 9,200 SF. A large formal foyer celebrates the entry and opens up to the living, dining, kitchen and family rooms all focused on the rear garden. The east side of the second floor is the Master wing and a center bridge connects it to the kid’s wing on the west. Second floor terraces and sunscreens provide views and shade in this suburban setting. The playful mathematical grid of the house in the x, y and z axis also extends into the layout of the trees and hard-scapes, all centered on a suburban one-acre lot.
Many green attributes were designed into the home; Ipe wood sunscreens and window shades block out unwanted solar gain in summer, but allow winter sun in. Patio door and operable windows provide ample opportunity for natural ventilation throughout the open floor plan. Minimal windows on east and west sides to reduce heat loss in winter and unwanted gains in summer. Open floor plan and large window expanse reduces lighting demands and maximizes available daylight. Skylights provide natural light to the basement rooms. Durable, low-maintenance exterior materials include stone, ipe wood siding and decking, and concrete roof pavers. Design is based on a 2' planning grid to minimize construction waste. Basement foundation walls and slab are highly insulated. FSC-certified walnut wood flooring was used. Light colored concrete roof pavers to reduce cooling loads by as much as 15%. 2x6 framing allows for more insulation and energy savings. Super efficient windows have low-E argon gas filled units, and thermally insulated aluminum frames. Permeable brick and stone pavers reduce the site’s storm-water runoff. Countertops use recycled composite materials. Energy-Star rated furnaces and smart thermostats are located throughout the house to minimize duct runs and avoid energy loss. Energy-Star rated boiler that heats up both radiant floors and domestic hot water. Low-flow toilets and plumbing fixtures are used to conserve water usage. No VOC finish options and direct venting fireplaces maintain a high interior air quality. Smart home system controls lighting, HVAC, and shades to better manage energy use. Plumbing runs through interior walls reducing possibilities of heat loss and freezing problems. A large food pantry was placed next to kitchen to reduce trips to the grocery store. Home office reduces need for automobile transit and associated CO2 footprint. Plan allows for aging in place, with guest suite than can become the master suite, with no need to move as family members mature.
Thomas Roszak Architecture, LLCPhoto credit: Scott McDonald @ Hedrich Blessing
7RR-Ecohome:
The design objective was to build a house for a couple recently married who both had kids from previous marriages. How to bridge two families together?
The design looks forward in terms of how people live today. The home is an experiment in transparency and solid form; removing borders and edges from outside to inside the house, and to really depict “flowing and endless space”. The house floor plan is derived by pushing and pulling the house’s form to maximize the backyard and minimize the public front yard while welcoming the sun in key rooms by rotating the house 45-degrees to true north. The angular form of the house is a result of the family’s program, the zoning rules, the lot’s attributes, and the sun’s path. We wanted to construct a house that is smart and efficient in terms of construction and energy, both in terms of the building and the user. We could tell a story of how the house is built in terms of the constructability, structure and enclosure, with a nod to Japanese wood construction in the method in which the siding is installed and the exposed interior beams are placed in the double height space. We engineered the house to be smart which not only looks modern but acts modern; every aspect of user control is simplified to a digital touch button, whether lights, shades, blinds, HVAC, communication, audio, video, or security. We developed a planning module based on a 6-foot square room size and a 6-foot wide connector called an interstitial space for hallways, bathrooms, stairs and mechanical, which keeps the rooms pure and uncluttered. The house is 6,200 SF of livable space, plus garage and basement gallery for a total of 9,200 SF. A large formal foyer celebrates the entry and opens up to the living, dining, kitchen and family rooms all focused on the rear garden. The east side of the second floor is the Master wing and a center bridge connects it to the kid’s wing on the west. Second floor terraces and sunscreens provide views and shade in this suburban setting. The playful mathematical grid of the house in the x, y and z axis also extends into the layout of the trees and hard-scapes, all centered on a suburban one-acre lot.
Many green attributes were designed into the home; Ipe wood sunscreens and window shades block out unwanted solar gain in summer, but allow winter sun in. Patio door and operable windows provide ample opportunity for natural ventilation throughout the open floor plan. Minimal windows on east and west sides to reduce heat loss in winter and unwanted gains in summer. Open floor plan and large window expanse reduces lighting demands and maximizes available daylight. Skylights provide natural light to the basement rooms. Durable, low-maintenance exterior materials include stone, ipe wood siding and decking, and concrete roof pavers. Design is based on a 2' planning grid to minimize construction waste. Basement foundation walls and slab are highly insulated. FSC-certified walnut wood flooring was used. Light colored concrete roof pavers to reduce cooling loads by as much as 15%. 2x6 framing allows for more insulation and energy savings. Super efficient windows have low-E argon gas filled units, and thermally insulated aluminum frames. Permeable brick and stone pavers reduce the site’s storm-water runoff. Countertops use recycled composite materials. Energy-Star rated furnaces and smart thermostats are located throughout the house to minimize duct runs and avoid energy loss. Energy-Star rated boiler that heats up both radiant floors and domestic hot water. Low-flow toilets and plumbing fixtures are used to conserve water usage. No VOC finish options and direct venting fireplaces maintain a high interior air quality. Smart home system controls lighting, HVAC, and shades to better manage energy use. Plumbing runs through interior walls reducing possibilities of heat loss and freezing problems. A large food pantry was placed next to kitchen to reduce trips to the grocery store. Home office reduces need for automobile transit and associated CO2 footprint. Plan allows for aging in place, with guest suite than can become the master suite, with no need to move as family members mature.
Chelsea Building GroupThe multi-use island is a modern twist on the eat-in kitchen. The casual dining table is a seamless extension of the kitchen and its location means the island always remains open for prep and food serving. The U-shape provides ample storage and an oversized casement window provides the focal point to the room.
With ReAlta, we are introducing for the first time in Charlotte a fully solar community.
Each beautifully detailed home will incorporate low profile solar panels that will collect the sun’s rays to significantly offset the home’s energy usage. Combined with our industry-leading Home Efficiency Ratings (HERS), these solar systems will save a ReAlta homeowner thousands over the life of the home.
Credit: Brendan Kahm
Blue Ribbon Residential Construction, Inc.John R. Sperath
Eat-in kitchen - mid-sized transitional u-shaped light wood floor eat-in kitchen idea in Raleigh with an undermount sink, raised-panel cabinets, white cabinets, quartzite countertops, gray backsplash, glass tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances, gray walls and an island
Eat-in kitchen - mid-sized transitional u-shaped light wood floor eat-in kitchen idea in Raleigh with an undermount sink, raised-panel cabinets, white cabinets, quartzite countertops, gray backsplash, glass tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances, gray walls and an island
Chelsea Building GroupLight and bright is the first thing that comes to mind when you step foot into this contemporary home. The expansive white living space reflects and extends the natural light streaming in from the large casement windows that surround all three sides of the open-concept space. Even the open-tread stairs allow front door visibility and draw the eye into the heart of the home.
With ReAlta, we are introducing for the first time in Charlotte a fully solar community.
Each beautifully detailed home will incorporate low profile solar panels that will collect the sun’s rays to significantly offset the home’s energy usage. Combined with our industry-leading Home Efficiency Ratings (HERS), these solar systems will save a ReAlta homeowner thousands over the life of the home.
Credit: Brendan Kahm
Thomas Roszak Architecture, LLCPhoto credit: Scott McDonald @ Hedrich Blessing
7RR-Ecohome:
The design objective was to build a house for a couple recently married who both had kids from previous marriages. How to bridge two families together?
The design looks forward in terms of how people live today. The home is an experiment in transparency and solid form; removing borders and edges from outside to inside the house, and to really depict “flowing and endless space”. The house floor plan is derived by pushing and pulling the house’s form to maximize the backyard and minimize the public front yard while welcoming the sun in key rooms by rotating the house 45-degrees to true north. The angular form of the house is a result of the family’s program, the zoning rules, the lot’s attributes, and the sun’s path. We wanted to construct a house that is smart and efficient in terms of construction and energy, both in terms of the building and the user. We could tell a story of how the house is built in terms of the constructability, structure and enclosure, with a nod to Japanese wood construction in the method in which the siding is installed and the exposed interior beams are placed in the double height space. We engineered the house to be smart which not only looks modern but acts modern; every aspect of user control is simplified to a digital touch button, whether lights, shades, blinds, HVAC, communication, audio, video, or security. We developed a planning module based on a 6-foot square room size and a 6-foot wide connector called an interstitial space for hallways, bathrooms, stairs and mechanical, which keeps the rooms pure and uncluttered. The house is 6,200 SF of livable space, plus garage and basement gallery for a total of 9,200 SF. A large formal foyer celebrates the entry and opens up to the living, dining, kitchen and family rooms all focused on the rear garden. The east side of the second floor is the Master wing and a center bridge connects it to the kid’s wing on the west. Second floor terraces and sunscreens provide views and shade in this suburban setting. The playful mathematical grid of the house in the x, y and z axis also extends into the layout of the trees and hard-scapes, all centered on a suburban one-acre lot.
Many green attributes were designed into the home; Ipe wood sunscreens and window shades block out unwanted solar gain in summer, but allow winter sun in. Patio door and operable windows provide ample opportunity for natural ventilation throughout the open floor plan. Minimal windows on east and west sides to reduce heat loss in winter and unwanted gains in summer. Open floor plan and large window expanse reduces lighting demands and maximizes available daylight. Skylights provide natural light to the basement rooms. Durable, low-maintenance exterior materials include stone, ipe wood siding and decking, and concrete roof pavers. Design is based on a 2' planning grid to minimize construction waste. Basement foundation walls and slab are highly insulated. FSC-certified walnut wood flooring was used. Light colored concrete roof pavers to reduce cooling loads by as much as 15%. 2x6 framing allows for more insulation and energy savings. Super efficient windows have low-E argon gas filled units, and thermally insulated aluminum frames. Permeable brick and stone pavers reduce the site’s storm-water runoff. Countertops use recycled composite materials. Energy-Star rated furnaces and smart thermostats are located throughout the house to minimize duct runs and avoid energy loss. Energy-Star rated boiler that heats up both radiant floors and domestic hot water. Low-flow toilets and plumbing fixtures are used to conserve water usage. No VOC finish options and direct venting fireplaces maintain a high interior air quality. Smart home system controls lighting, HVAC, and shades to better manage energy use. Plumbing runs through interior walls reducing possibilities of heat loss and freezing problems. A large food pantry was placed next to kitchen to reduce trips to the grocery store. Home office reduces need for automobile transit and associated CO2 footprint. Plan allows for aging in place, with guest suite than can become the master suite, with no need to move as family members mature.
Thomas Roszak Architecture, LLCPhoto credit: Scott McDonald @ Hedrich Blessing
7RR-Ecohome:
The design objective was to build a house for a couple recently married who both had kids from previous marriages. How to bridge two families together?
The design looks forward in terms of how people live today. The home is an experiment in transparency and solid form; removing borders and edges from outside to inside the house, and to really depict “flowing and endless space”. The house floor plan is derived by pushing and pulling the house’s form to maximize the backyard and minimize the public front yard while welcoming the sun in key rooms by rotating the house 45-degrees to true north. The angular form of the house is a result of the family’s program, the zoning rules, the lot’s attributes, and the sun’s path. We wanted to construct a house that is smart and efficient in terms of construction and energy, both in terms of the building and the user. We could tell a story of how the house is built in terms of the constructability, structure and enclosure, with a nod to Japanese wood construction in the method in which the siding is installed and the exposed interior beams are placed in the double height space. We engineered the house to be smart which not only looks modern but acts modern; every aspect of user control is simplified to a digital touch button, whether lights, shades, blinds, HVAC, communication, audio, video, or security. We developed a planning module based on a 6-foot square room size and a 6-foot wide connector called an interstitial space for hallways, bathrooms, stairs and mechanical, which keeps the rooms pure and uncluttered. The house is 6,200 SF of livable space, plus garage and basement gallery for a total of 9,200 SF. A large formal foyer celebrates the entry and opens up to the living, dining, kitchen and family rooms all focused on the rear garden. The east side of the second floor is the Master wing and a center bridge connects it to the kid’s wing on the west. Second floor terraces and sunscreens provide views and shade in this suburban setting. The playful mathematical grid of the house in the x, y and z axis also extends into the layout of the trees and hard-scapes, all centered on a suburban one-acre lot.
Many green attributes were designed into the home; Ipe wood sunscreens and window shades block out unwanted solar gain in summer, but allow winter sun in. Patio door and operable windows provide ample opportunity for natural ventilation throughout the open floor plan. Minimal windows on east and west sides to reduce heat loss in winter and unwanted gains in summer. Open floor plan and large window expanse reduces lighting demands and maximizes available daylight. Skylights provide natural light to the basement rooms. Durable, low-maintenance exterior materials include stone, ipe wood siding and decking, and concrete roof pavers. Design is based on a 2' planning grid to minimize construction waste. Basement foundation walls and slab are highly insulated. FSC-certified walnut wood flooring was used. Light colored concrete roof pavers to reduce cooling loads by as much as 15%. 2x6 framing allows for more insulation and energy savings. Super efficient windows have low-E argon gas filled units, and thermally insulated aluminum frames. Permeable brick and stone pavers reduce the site’s storm-water runoff. Countertops use recycled composite materials. Energy-Star rated furnaces and smart thermostats are located throughout the house to minimize duct runs and avoid energy loss. Energy-Star rated boiler that heats up both radiant floors and domestic hot water. Low-flow toilets and plumbing fixtures are used to conserve water usage. No VOC finish options and direct venting fireplaces maintain a high interior air quality. Smart home system controls lighting, HVAC, and shades to better manage energy use. Plumbing runs through interior walls reducing possibilities of heat loss and freezing problems. A large food pantry was placed next to kitchen to reduce trips to the grocery store. Home office reduces need for automobile transit and associated CO2 footprint. Plan allows for aging in place, with guest suite than can become the master suite, with no need to move as family members mature.
George OcampoThis project is from 2012/2013. These are 2016 pics. We thought we had a great design. Then we built it and thought, great project to compliment a grand home. 4 years later and its even better. Creative award winning design, quality materials, great workmanship, great energy, awesome flow and service wrapped up in this wonderful home
Thomas Roszak Architecture, LLCPhoto credit: Scott McDonald @ Hedrich Blessing
7RR-Ecohome:
The design objective was to build a house for a couple recently married who both had kids from previous marriages. How to bridge two families together?
The design looks forward in terms of how people live today. The home is an experiment in transparency and solid form; removing borders and edges from outside to inside the house, and to really depict “flowing and endless space”. The house floor plan is derived by pushing and pulling the house’s form to maximize the backyard and minimize the public front yard while welcoming the sun in key rooms by rotating the house 45-degrees to true north. The angular form of the house is a result of the family’s program, the zoning rules, the lot’s attributes, and the sun’s path. We wanted to construct a house that is smart and efficient in terms of construction and energy, both in terms of the building and the user. We could tell a story of how the house is built in terms of the constructability, structure and enclosure, with a nod to Japanese wood construction in the method in which the siding is installed and the exposed interior beams are placed in the double height space. We engineered the house to be smart which not only looks modern but acts modern; every aspect of user control is simplified to a digital touch button, whether lights, shades, blinds, HVAC, communication, audio, video, or security. We developed a planning module based on a 6-foot square room size and a 6-foot wide connector called an interstitial space for hallways, bathrooms, stairs and mechanical, which keeps the rooms pure and uncluttered. The house is 6,200 SF of livable space, plus garage and basement gallery for a total of 9,200 SF. A large formal foyer celebrates the entry and opens up to the living, dining, kitchen and family rooms all focused on the rear garden. The east side of the second floor is the Master wing and a center bridge connects it to the kid’s wing on the west. Second floor terraces and sunscreens provide views and shade in this suburban setting. The playful mathematical grid of the house in the x, y and z axis also extends into the layout of the trees and hard-scapes, all centered on a suburban one-acre lot.
Many green attributes were designed into the home; Ipe wood sunscreens and window shades block out unwanted solar gain in summer, but allow winter sun in. Patio door and operable windows provide ample opportunity for natural ventilation throughout the open floor plan. Minimal windows on east and west sides to reduce heat loss in winter and unwanted gains in summer. Open floor plan and large window expanse reduces lighting demands and maximizes available daylight. Skylights provide natural light to the basement rooms. Durable, low-maintenance exterior materials include stone, ipe wood siding and decking, and concrete roof pavers. Design is based on a 2' planning grid to minimize construction waste. Basement foundation walls and slab are highly insulated. FSC-certified walnut wood flooring was used. Light colored concrete roof pavers to reduce cooling loads by as much as 15%. 2x6 framing allows for more insulation and energy savings. Super efficient windows have low-E argon gas filled units, and thermally insulated aluminum frames. Permeable brick and stone pavers reduce the site’s storm-water runoff. Countertops use recycled composite materials. Energy-Star rated furnaces and smart thermostats are located throughout the house to minimize duct runs and avoid energy loss. Energy-Star rated boiler that heats up both radiant floors and domestic hot water. Low-flow toilets and plumbing fixtures are used to conserve water usage. No VOC finish options and direct venting fireplaces maintain a high interior air quality. Smart home system controls lighting, HVAC, and shades to better manage energy use. Plumbing runs through interior walls reducing possibilities of heat loss and freezing problems. A large food pantry was placed next to kitchen to reduce trips to the grocery store. Home office reduces need for automobile transit and associated CO2 footprint. Plan allows for aging in place, with guest suite than can become the master suite, with no need to move as family members mature.
Thomas Roszak Architecture, LLCPhoto credit: Scott McDonald @ Hedrich Blessing
7RR-Ecohome:
The design objective was to build a house for a couple recently married who both had kids from previous marriages. How to bridge two families together?
The design looks forward in terms of how people live today. The home is an experiment in transparency and solid form; removing borders and edges from outside to inside the house, and to really depict “flowing and endless space”. The house floor plan is derived by pushing and pulling the house’s form to maximize the backyard and minimize the public front yard while welcoming the sun in key rooms by rotating the house 45-degrees to true north. The angular form of the house is a result of the family’s program, the zoning rules, the lot’s attributes, and the sun’s path. We wanted to construct a house that is smart and efficient in terms of construction and energy, both in terms of the building and the user. We could tell a story of how the house is built in terms of the constructability, structure and enclosure, with a nod to Japanese wood construction in the method in which the siding is installed and the exposed interior beams are placed in the double height space. We engineered the house to be smart which not only looks modern but acts modern; every aspect of user control is simplified to a digital touch button, whether lights, shades, blinds, HVAC, communication, audio, video, or security. We developed a planning module based on a 6-foot square room size and a 6-foot wide connector called an interstitial space for hallways, bathrooms, stairs and mechanical, which keeps the rooms pure and uncluttered. The house is 6,200 SF of livable space, plus garage and basement gallery for a total of 9,200 SF. A large formal foyer celebrates the entry and opens up to the living, dining, kitchen and family rooms all focused on the rear garden. The east side of the second floor is the Master wing and a center bridge connects it to the kid’s wing on the west. Second floor terraces and sunscreens provide views and shade in this suburban setting. The playful mathematical grid of the house in the x, y and z axis also extends into the layout of the trees and hard-scapes, all centered on a suburban one-acre lot.
Many green attributes were designed into the home; Ipe wood sunscreens and window shades block out unwanted solar gain in summer, but allow winter sun in. Patio door and operable windows provide ample opportunity for natural ventilation throughout the open floor plan. Minimal windows on east and west sides to reduce heat loss in winter and unwanted gains in summer. Open floor plan and large window expanse reduces lighting demands and maximizes available daylight. Skylights provide natural light to the basement rooms. Durable, low-maintenance exterior materials include stone, ipe wood siding and decking, and concrete roof pavers. Design is based on a 2' planning grid to minimize construction waste. Basement foundation walls and slab are highly insulated. FSC-certified walnut wood flooring was used. Light colored concrete roof pavers to reduce cooling loads by as much as 15%. 2x6 framing allows for more insulation and energy savings. Super efficient windows have low-E argon gas filled units, and thermally insulated aluminum frames. Permeable brick and stone pavers reduce the site’s storm-water runoff. Countertops use recycled composite materials. Energy-Star rated furnaces and smart thermostats are located throughout the house to minimize duct runs and avoid energy loss. Energy-Star rated boiler that heats up both radiant floors and domestic hot water. Low-flow toilets and plumbing fixtures are used to conserve water usage. No VOC finish options and direct venting fireplaces maintain a high interior air quality. Smart home system controls lighting, HVAC, and shades to better manage energy use. Plumbing runs through interior walls reducing possibilities of heat loss and freezing problems. A large food pantry was placed next to kitchen to reduce trips to the grocery store. Home office reduces need for automobile transit and associated CO2 footprint. Plan allows for aging in place, with guest suite than can become the master suite, with no need to move as family members mature.
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