This cool roof + 104 solar modules create thermal comfort for 78 elderly residents, generate 10-30% of the apartment's common area, and catch 250,000+ gallons of rainwater for the 149th Certified Arboretum in the world. Energy+Water+Food

walkway re-routed to allow the installation of a standby generator. The project came out beautiful and the walkway looks great. www.albrightgenerators.com

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

Inspiration for a contemporary landscaping in Detroit.

walkway re-routed to allow the installation of a standby generator. The project came out beautiful and the walkway looks great. www.albrightgenerators.com

Photo of a contemporary landscaping in Detroit.

Panasonic whole home energy system solar panels installed as part of this eco conscious addition and renovation project. This system provides reserve energy for up to 3 days in the event of a grid failure, and also feeds into the hydro grid when excess power is generated, offsetting hydro costs from the utility.

The Omari area rug in Chartreuse takes inspiration from a coat of arms handed down from generation to generation for centuries. Its old world charm blends wonderfully with the mixtures of green, blue, and yellow throughout the design. Power-loomed in a pure polypropylene pile, this contemporary design is inherently stain and fade resistant offering necessary durability for high traffic spaces in a home.

The Perfect Blend of Tradition and Timekeeping Are you considering adding a touch of charm and elegance to your home decor? Look no further than the timeless and delightful cuckoo clock. Originating from the Black Forest region in Germany, these enchanting timepieces have captured the hearts of clock enthusiasts around the world. In this article, we will explore the top five reasons why you should buy a cuckoo clock today. 1. Immerse Yourself in German Culture There's no better way to immerse yourself in the rich heritage of German craftsmanship and tradition than by owning an authentic cuckoo clock. With its intricate designs and meticulous craftsmanship, each cuckoo clock tells a story of German culture. From the beautifully carved wooden figurines to the enchanting melodies that accompany the cuckoo's call, these clocks are a true representation of German artistry. Did you know? The Black Forest region in Germany has been renowned for its clockmaking since the 17th century. It is home to some of the most skilled artisans in the world. 2. Experience the Beauty of Mechanical Engineering In today's digital age, where most timepieces are powered by batteries or electricity, owning a mechanical cuckoo clock is a delightful departure from the norm. Witnessing the intricate gears, levers, and pendulums in motion is an experience in itself. The rhythmic ticking and soothing sound of the cuckoo's call bring a sense of tranquility and nostalgia to your living space. Fun Fact: The mechanical movement of a cuckoo clock is powered by weights that need to be wound manually. This interaction with the clock adds a tactile and engaging element to the overall experience. 3. Enhance Your Home Decor A cuckoo clock is more than just a timekeeping device; it's a statement piece that adds character and warmth to any room. Whether you prefer a traditional chalet-style clock or a more contemporary design, there is a cuckoo clock to suit every taste and interior decor. Hang it on a prominent wall, and watch as it becomes a focal point, captivating the attention of guests and family members alike. Pro Tip: Consider the size and color of your cuckoo clock to ensure it complements the existing elements in your room. Earthy tones like brown and black are popular choices that blend well with various decor styles. 4. Delight in the Charming Cuckoo Call One of the most enchanting features of a cuckoo clock is, of course, the cuckoo's call itself. With each hour, the tiny bird emerges from its wooden abode and chirps the corresponding number of times. The gentle sound of the cuckoo's call evokes a sense of whimsy and nostalgia, transporting you to the idyllic Black Forest region. It's a delightful way to keep track of time and adds a touch of magic to your everyday routine. Did you know? The cuckoo's call is produced by a small bellows system inside the clock. As air pressure changes, the bellows push air through two wooden pipes, creating the familiar "cuckoo" sound. 5. Pass Down a Cherished Heirloom Investing in a cuckoo clock is not just a purchase; it's an investment in a cherished heirloom that can be passed down through generations. These meticulously crafted timepieces are built to stand the test of time, both in terms of durability and timeless appeal. By owning a cuckoo clock, you can create a legacy and leave a piece of your own history for your loved ones to treasure. Pro Tip: Regular maintenance and care, such as oiling the gears and keeping the clock away from direct sunlight, can help ensure the longevity of your cuckoo clock. FAQs about Cuckoo Clocks Q1. How long do cuckoo clocks typically last? Cuckoo clocks are known for their longevity. With proper care and maintenance, a well-crafted cuckoo clock can last for generations. Q2. Do all cuckoo clocks have the same design? No, cuckoo clocks come in various designs, ranging from traditional chalet-style clocks to more contemporary and whimsical designs. There is a wide variety to choose from, catering to different tastes and preferences. Q3. Can I adjust the volume of the cuckoo's call? Yes, most cuckoo clocks have a volume control feature that allows you to adjust the sound of the cuckoo's call to your liking. Q4. Are cuckoo clocks difficult to set up and maintain? While setting up a cuckoo clock requires some initial adjustments, it is not overly complicated. Regular maintenance, such as oiling the gears and keeping the clock clean, will ensure its smooth operation. Q5. Are cuckoo clocks environmentally friendly? Cuckoo clocks are generally considered environmentally friendly as they operate using mechanical movements and do not rely on electricity or batteries. However, it is important to ensure that the wood used in the clock is sourced responsibly. Q6. Can I find cuckoo clocks with modern features, such as automatic night shut-off? Yes, many modern cuckoo clocks offer additional features like automatic night shut-off to silence the clock during the nighttime hours, ensuring a peaceful sleep. In Conclusion Owning a cuckoo clock is a delightful way to bring a touch of German tradition and craftsmanship into your home. From immersing yourself in German culture to experiencing the beauty of mechanical engineering, a cuckoo clock offers much more than just timekeeping. So why wait? Indulge in the enchantment of a cuckoo clock today and create a cherished heirloom that will be treasured for years to come.

Features: • M Touch innovative and revolutionary controls are both easy-to-operate and navigate. An intuitive swipe of the screen will quickly lead you to your desired selection • MultiSteam technology delivers powerful steam generation and optimum steam distribution via 6 inlet ports • Plumbed water supply and drainage • Wired roast probe for perfect roasting • 3-in-1 appliance • True European convection oven • Steam oven • Combination of steam and convection oven • MasterChef and MasterChef Gourmet menus offer over 150 food types to cook to perfection • XL stainless steel cavity • Lift up control panel conceals water and condensate container (both containers are dishwasher-safe) • ComfortSwivel handle moves with the motion of your wrist, creating a more ergonomic feel when opening and closing the oven door Dimensions: Overall Unit Width - Excluding Fascia Dimension 219/16” (548mm) Overall Height - Excluding Fascia Dimension 1711/16” (449mm) Overall Unit Depth - Excluding Fascia Dimension 215/8” (550mm) Oven Door Clearance 13” (330mm) Depth with door open 3411/16” (898mm) Overall Fascia Dimensions: 237/16” (595mm) W x 18” (455.5mm) H x 7/8” (22mm) D Built-In Dimensions: Minimum Cabinet Width 221/16” — 223/8” (560 - 568mm) Minimum Cabinet Depth 217/8” (555mm) Minimum Cabinet Opening Height 1711/16” — 1713/16” (450 — 452mm) Minimum Base Support 60 lbs Additional Cut-outs Required - Venting and plumbing cut-out required 1911/16” x 19/16” (500 x 40 mm) Water Supply Requirements: Connect to a cold water supply only. Must be connected to a shut-off valve. The water shut-off valve must be accessible after installation. The water pressure must be between 14.5 psi (1 bar) and may not exceed 87.02 psi (6 bar). If the pressure is higher than 87.02 psi (6 bar), a pressure reducing valve must be installed. The supplied hose has a length of 59” (1500mm). The hose must not be shortened. The entire hose length must not exceed 24’7” (7.5m). Drainage Requirements: Drain hose loop may be positioned at or above the flood level of the sink or drain board to which it is connect to provide the proper air gap. The top of end the drain hose must not be higher than 1911/16” (500mm) to where it connects to the drain trap. The drain hose must not be shortened. The entire hose length must not exceed 24’7” (7.5m). See installation manual for additional information.

Green Home Systems recently completed a solar installation project in Barstow, California. We provided Albert L. with a 3.60 kW photovoltaic system that allowed him to reduce his utility bill and increase his home value. Albert chose Green Home Systems because of our competitive pricing and easy payment terms. We worked closely with him to ensure the project was completed quickly and efficiently. Our experienced team of professionals was able to complete the project in less than a month and Albert was very pleased with the results. At Green Home Systems, we pride ourselves on providing our customers with superior customer service and quality products. We use only the highest quality materials and equipment and take great care to ensure every installation meets our exacting standards for safety and efficiency. Our knowledgeable staff is always available to answer questions about our products or services and provide helpful advice on how to get the most out of your solar energy system. Our solar energy systems are designed to provide maximum performance with minimal maintenance. Every system includes an inverter that converts the direct current (DC) electricity generated by the solar panels into alternating current (AC) electricity which is used by your home or business. We also offer monitoring services that allow you to track your system’s performance in real time so you can make sure your investment is working as expected. At Green Home Systems, we understand how important it is for our customers to feel confident in their investment and that’s why we offer competitive financing options through our partners at Sunrun and Sunpower. With these programs you can get started with a low down payment and then pay off your system over time while still enjoying substantial savings on your utility bills each month. We are proud of the work we do at Green Home Systems and we strive to ensure that every customer is satisfied with their experience. It was an honor for us to work with Albert on this project in Barstow, California and we look forward to continuing to help more people make the switch to solar energy in the future!

Let's face it: times are changing. We're living in an era where technology advances at a fast pace and its developments have a significant impact on the surroundings. The need for environmental solutions has become more urgent with each passing day. While we live and adapt to our immediate environment, it doesn't mean that we have to settle with what's present, especially when our surrounding conditions are becoming detrimental to our wellbeing. This is the reason Singapore architects are looking into eco-friendly approaches when designing residential spaces. Singapore architects are becoming more proactive in integrating eco-friendly principles in their residential projects. Below are some of the standout reasons why: 1. You get to practice energy efficiency. In typical homes, electricity is powered by non-renewable sources. The continuous use of non-renewable energy increases carbon footprint and worsens air pollution, both of which negatively affect the environment. However, there are alternative sources of energy that can be included in your home's architectural design. These include solar panels and wind turbines that produce electricity that can keep the house powered. These methods do not produce toxic compounds or carbon emissions; they are also renewable and do not incur recurring expenses. 2. Eco-friendly architecture brings you closer to a more "natural environment." The emergence of urban landscapes has deprived today's generation of the opportunity to be one with nature. Individuals these days have to travel to the countryside to enjoy nature's beauty and all the amazing benefits it has to offer. Fortunately, eco-friendly architecture provides a route where you can better appreciate many of the benefits nature offers. As a homeowner, you must enjoy a calm, clean, and fresh indoor environment. Eco-friendly approaches to homes aim to provide this kind of atmosphere through the use of local materials, renewable energy sources, and incorporating nature's elements (such as sunlight and air ventilation) on the structural design. 3. You save money for maintenance and upkeep. Eco-friendly architecture is known for its low maintenance costs. At first glance, you may find it expensive to build a "green home." However, since it makes use of renewable energy sources and local resources for upkeep, operational costs become much cheaper compared to living in a conventional home. Also, green homes promote material efficiency. Apart from using local resources, eco-friendly construction involves building processes that generate as little waste as possible. Recycled and reusable materials are preferred in building the home, while the architectural design follows construction techniques that use less energy, water, and raw materials. 4. You enjoy better health. Living in a green home offers a lot of health benefits. For instance, eco-friendly architecture supports the use of natural materials and it discourages having plastic by-products in the building process. At the same time, eco-friendly architectural designs look into utilising vertical space to boost freedom of movement and air circulation. These spatial strategies allow you to breathe better even while indoors and move around the house without feeling cramped. Lastly, utilising vertical space offers more natural light to enter the home. Natural light is essential not just because it illuminates the house during the day, it also regulates the circadian rhythm, which dictates our body's waking and sleeping hours. In a nutshell Eco-friendly homes can help you save money and time, not to mention improve your health dramatically. Moreover, it can also help reduce your environmental footprint significantly. From improving air quality to helping regulate the effects of climate change, eco-friendly homes allow you to live a more sustainable lifestyle.

Large elegant gray two-story stucco exterior home photo in San Diego

Green Home Systems recently completed a solar installation project in Barstow, California. We provided Albert L. with a 3.60 kW photovoltaic system that allowed him to reduce his utility bill and increase his home value. Albert chose Green Home Systems because of our competitive pricing and easy payment terms. We worked closely with him to ensure the project was completed quickly and efficiently. Our experienced team of professionals was able to complete the project in less than a month and Albert was very pleased with the results. At Green Home Systems, we pride ourselves on providing our customers with superior customer service and quality products. We use only the highest quality materials and equipment and take great care to ensure every installation meets our exacting standards for safety and efficiency. Our knowledgeable staff is always available to answer questions about our products or services and provide helpful advice on how to get the most out of your solar energy system. Our solar energy systems are designed to provide maximum performance with minimal maintenance. Every system includes an inverter that converts the direct current (DC) electricity generated by the solar panels into alternating current (AC) electricity which is used by your home or business. We also offer monitoring services that allow you to track your system’s performance in real time so you can make sure your investment is working as expected. At Green Home Systems, we understand how important it is for our customers to feel confident in their investment and that’s why we offer competitive financing options through our partners at Sunrun and Sunpower. With these programs you can get started with a low down payment and then pay off your system over time while still enjoying substantial savings on your utility bills each month. We are proud of the work we do at Green Home Systems and we strive to ensure that every customer is satisfied with their experience. It was an honor for us to work with Albert on this project in Barstow, California and we look forward to continuing to help more people make the switch to solar energy in the future!

Panasonic whole home energy system solar panels installed as part of this eco conscious addition and renovation project. This system provides reserve energy for up to 3 days in the event of a grid failure, and also feeds into the hydro grid when excess power is generated, offsetting hydro costs from the utility.

www.Albrightgenerators.com

Using a Generac Guardian Series Generator to help power the switch to duckless heating and cooling systems. At Air Group one call does it all. Photo by GWP Inc

Deck photo in San Francisco

Example of a deck design in San Francisco