Search results for "Reduce efficiently" in Home Design Ideas

This renovated brick rowhome in Boston’s South End offers a modern aesthetic within a historic structure, creative use of space, exceptional thermal comfort, a reduced carbon footprint, and a passive stream of income.
DESIGN PRIORITIES. The goals for the project were clear - design the primary unit to accommodate the family’s modern lifestyle, rework the layout to create a desirable rental unit, improve thermal comfort and introduce a modern aesthetic. We designed the street-level entry as a shared entrance for both the primary and rental unit. The family uses it as their everyday entrance - we planned for bike storage and an open mudroom with bench and shoe storage to facilitate the change from shoes to slippers or bare feet as they enter their home. On the main level, we expanded the kitchen into the dining room to create an eat-in space with generous counter space and storage, as well as a comfortable connection to the living space. The second floor serves as master suite for the couple - a bedroom with a walk-in-closet and ensuite bathroom, and an adjacent study, with refinished original pumpkin pine floors. The upper floor, aside from a guest bedroom, is the child's domain with interconnected spaces for sleeping, work and play. In the play space, which can be separated from the work space with new translucent sliding doors, we incorporated recreational features inspired by adventurous and competitive television shows, at their son’s request.
MODERN MEETS TRADITIONAL. We left the historic front facade of the building largely unchanged - the security bars were removed from the windows and the single pane windows were replaced with higher performing historic replicas. We designed the interior and rear facade with a vision of warm modernism, weaving in the notable period features. Each element was either restored or reinterpreted to blend with the modern aesthetic. The detailed ceiling in the living space, for example, has a new matte monochromatic finish, and the wood stairs are covered in a dark grey floor paint, whereas the mahogany doors were simply refinished. New wide plank wood flooring with a neutral finish, floor-to-ceiling casework, and bold splashes of color in wall paint and tile, and oversized high-performance windows (on the rear facade) round out the modern aesthetic.
RENTAL INCOME. The existing rowhome was zoned for a 2-family dwelling but included an undesirable, single-floor studio apartment at the garden level with low ceiling heights and questionable emergency egress. In order to increase the quality and quantity of space in the rental unit, we reimagined it as a two-floor, 1 or 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment with a modern aesthetic, increased ceiling height on the lowest level and provided an in-unit washer/dryer. The apartment was listed with Jackie O'Connor Real Estate and rented immediately, providing the owners with a source of passive income.
ENCLOSURE WITH BENEFITS. The homeowners sought a minimal carbon footprint, enabled by their urban location and lifestyle decisions, paired with the benefits of a high-performance home. The extent of the renovation allowed us to implement a deep energy retrofit (DER) to address air tightness, insulation, and high-performance windows. The historic front facade is insulated from the interior, while the rear facade is insulated on the exterior. Together with these building enclosure improvements, we designed an HVAC system comprised of continuous fresh air ventilation, and an efficient, all-electric heating and cooling system to decouple the house from natural gas. This strategy provides optimal thermal comfort and indoor air quality, improved acoustic isolation from street noise and neighbors, as well as a further reduced carbon footprint. We also took measures to prepare the roof for future solar panels, for when the South End neighborhood’s aging electrical infrastructure is upgraded to allow them.
URBAN LIVING. The desirable neighborhood location allows the both the homeowners and tenant to walk, bike, and use public transportation to access the city, while each charging their respective plug-in electric cars behind the building to travel greater distances.
OVERALL. The understated rowhouse is now ready for another century of urban living, offering the owners comfort and convenience as they live life as an expression of their values.
Eric Roth Photo

Louisa, San Clemente Coastal Modern Architecture
The brief for this modern coastal home was to create a place where the clients and their children and their families could gather to enjoy all the beauty of living in Southern California. Maximizing the lot was key to unlocking the potential of this property so the decision was made to excavate the entire property to allow natural light and ventilation to circulate through the lower level of the home.
A courtyard with a green wall and olive tree act as the lung for the building as the coastal breeze brings fresh air in and circulates out the old through the courtyard.
The concept for the home was to be living on a deck, so the large expanse of glass doors fold away to allow a seamless connection between the indoor and outdoors and feeling of being out on the deck is felt on the interior. A huge cantilevered beam in the roof allows for corner to completely disappear as the home looks to a beautiful ocean view and Dana Point harbor in the distance. All of the spaces throughout the home have a connection to the outdoors and this creates a light, bright and healthy environment.
Passive design principles were employed to ensure the building is as energy efficient as possible. Solar panels keep the building off the grid and and deep overhangs help in reducing the solar heat gains of the building. Ultimately this home has become a place that the families can all enjoy together as the grand kids create those memories of spending time at the beach.
Images and Video by Aandid Media.

The Renovation included demolition of the existing Kitchen from floor to ceiling. All new Custom Built ‘Raised Panel Style’ cabinetry was crafted and installed by our Xtreme Renovations, LLC Team. Many functional features were added such as Spice Rack sliding doors, Lazy Susan, wide drawers and reducing the fur down above the sink area to provide for taller Cabinetry. All doors were installed with soft closing European Hinges. All drawers have Full Extension Soft Closing Drawer Glides. The Island cook top was enlarged and converted from electric to Natural Gas to provide efficiency. Above Island fluorescent lighting was removed and all new energy efficient LED recessed lighting on dimmers were added as well as under cabinet LED lighting. Chandelier Lighting was added above the Island to add a touch of class for this cooks kitchen. New Harlequin Granite with White Marble Tile Backsplashes provided the “Wow Factor” our clients desired and Xtreme Renovations is known for. All Cabinetry was painted adding a touch of class to the New Kitchen. New Tile flooring was installed in the Kitchen, Laundry area and Powder Room. Many electrical and plumbing upgrades were made throughout the home as well as drywall work, painting of all wall and ceilings. The renovation included removing the existing hardwood flooring and installing new Anderson Southern Vista Sand Dune (Cabiaba) Spanish Hickory throughout the downstairs areas. Also included in this renovation was the installation of 15 Double Pain Argon Filled Replacement Windows.
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There are several advantages for homeowners to see 3D renderings of their pool outdoor projects before construction begins. Here are some of the key benefits:
Visualization: 3D renderings provide homeowners with a realistic visualization of their pool design. They can see how the design will look in their outdoor space from various angles, which helps them make informed decisions about the design.
Design Changes: If homeowners want to make changes to the pool design, 3D renderings make it easy to see how those changes will look in the final product. They can make adjustments to the design and see the results in real time, which saves time and money in the long run.
Cost-Efficiency: 3D renderings can help homeowners save money on their pool projects. They can make design changes before construction begins, which can prevent costly mistakes and delays.
Planning: 3D renderings allow homeowners to plan their outdoor space more efficiently. They can see how the pool design interacts with their landscaping, patio, and other outdoor features. This helps them plan the layout of their outdoor space and make informed decisions about other outdoor features.
Peace of Mind: 3D renderings provide homeowners with peace of mind. They can see the final product before construction begins, which reduces stress and anxiety about the project.

Designed for the lifestyle and budget of a young married couple and growing family, this home offers a viable alternative to the generic speculative home. Occupying a small leftover developer site, just under four tenths of an acre at the end of a suburban cul-de-sac, the Lanning Residence site is anchored by a one hundred year old oak tree. The parcel, once undesirable to developers and their speculative plans, became the inspiration for the project form.
Acting as both designers and builders, the decision was made early to utilize a strategy typical to most suburban construction; maximizing square footage while minimizing the building perimeter. An analysis of the surrounding suburban fabric revealed that the adjoining property lines were heavily planted. Views and window placement were organized to take advantage of the adjacent landscape while maximizing natural light.
The house program is distributed within two main volumes that are connected by a translucent circulation volume. The spacious interior volumes, large windows, plywood shear walls, sheetrock, and simple details allowed for a light construction budget. Spray foam insulation and well designed mechanical systems allowed the family to reduce their monthly utility bills by over half, creating a far more energy efficient lifestyle.

Asterix Cab Home Elevator
The Cibes Symmetry Asterix Cab is a premium residential elevator that combines timeless craftsmanship with modern elevator technology to deliver an elegant, fully enclosed lift for luxury homes. Designed for homeowners who want the classic look of a traditional elevator with the efficiency of a machine-room-less system, the Asterix Cab provides exceptional comfort, accessibility, and style.
Featuring a beautifully finished enclosed cab with customizable wall panels, premium lighting, elegant handrails, and refined interior details, the Asterix Cab enhances any home while providing safe and reliable access between floors. Whether incorporated into a new custom home or added during a renovation, it seamlessly blends with traditional, transitional, or contemporary interiors.
Unlike many conventional residential elevators, the Cibes Symmetry Asterix Cab is engineered for efficient installation with no separate machine room and a compact footprint, helping reduce construction complexity while maximizing usable living space. Its smooth screw-driven technology delivers quiet, dependable operation with low maintenance requirements and outstanding long-term reliability.
Built with safety and convenience in mind, the Asterix Cab includes advanced features such as obstruction sensors, battery-powered emergency lowering, emergency communication, automatic lighting, and intuitive controls, giving homeowners confidence with every ride.
Perfect For:
Luxury homes
Aging in place
Wheelchair accessibility
Multigenerational living
Custom home construction
Home renovations and remodels
Universal Design and accessible living
The Cibes Symmetry Asterix Cab is the ideal choice for homeowners seeking a sophisticated home elevator that combines elegant design, premium craftsmanship, and everyday functionality. With extensive customization options, smooth performance, and industry-leading engineering, the Asterix Cab adds lasting value, accessibility, and convenience to virtually any home.

? Hot Water Tank Installation, Repairs, and Maintenance in Ottawa & Surrounding Areas ?
At P & P HVAC, we specialize in expert hot water tank installation, repairs, and maintenance for homes and businesses throughout Ottawa, Orleans, Cumberland, and the surrounding areas. Whether you're looking to replace an outdated system or need quick, reliable repairs, our experienced team is here to ensure your hot water needs are met with quality and care.
Hot Water Tank Maintenance Tips: To keep your system running efficiently and prevent costly repairs, regular maintenance is key! Here are some important steps to take:
Flushing the tank annually: Helps prevent sediment buildup that can reduce efficiency and damage the tank over time.
Replacing the anode rod: Every few years, the anode rod in your hot water tank needs replacement to prevent rust and corrosion.
Installing a power anode rod: If you have a sulfur smell or hard water, this can help eliminate odors and extend the life of your tank.
We’re committed to helping you get the most out of your hot water system, ensuring it runs smoothly year-round. Whether you need a new hot water tank installation, emergency repairs, or routine maintenance to keep your system in top shape, trust P & P HVAC to deliver reliable service.
? Call us today to schedule your service or get a free estimate!

There are several advantages for homeowners to see 3D renderings of their pool outdoor projects before construction begins. Here are some of the key benefits:
Visualization: 3D renderings provide homeowners with a realistic visualization of their pool design. They can see how the design will look in their outdoor space from various angles, which helps them make informed decisions about the design.
Design Changes: If homeowners want to make changes to the pool design, 3D renderings make it easy to see how those changes will look in the final product. They can make adjustments to the design and see the results in real time, which saves time and money in the long run.
Cost-Efficiency: 3D renderings can help homeowners save money on their pool projects. They can make design changes before construction begins, which can prevent costly mistakes and delays.
Planning: 3D renderings allow homeowners to plan their outdoor space more efficiently. They can see how the pool design interacts with their landscaping, patio, and other outdoor features. This helps them plan the layout of their outdoor space and make informed decisions about other outdoor features.
Peace of Mind: 3D renderings provide homeowners with peace of mind. They can see the final product before construction begins, which reduces stress and anxiety about the project.

We provide a wide range of designs and colors for cabinets, fixtures, tiles, and appliances from which you can opt for one best suited for your vision and budget. Our team uses the space available optimally choosing the best layout for your cabinets and appliances. We will upgrade your cabinets to enhance your storage capacity and function. We provide several flooring options for you to select from, whether it is stone, tiles, or hardwood. You will be spoiled with choices for countertop designs that include granite, natural stone, and other materials that suit your preferences. We will ensure that each corner of your kitchen space is well-ventilated and receives sufficient lighting. We will even install skylights to provide you with natural sunlight to help reduce your electricity bills as well as install appliances and devices that are energy-efficient and use the latest technology available.

In order to make this kitchen more functional we had to play with the layout. We decided to switch the range and the fridge to better balance the space. We reduced the size of the bulky soffit to allow for taller cabinets and make the space feel more open. We shifted all the appliances down and added a built-in coffee machine & ice maker.
In choosing the finishes, our client decided to go with an accent island. The white perimeter and gray stained island really updated this kitchen. Previously, the back half of the island sat at bar height. To make efficient use of space, we made it all one height. Since we extended the entire kitchen, this deleted the dining table. To accommodate for this, the large island seats six & has additional storage underneath! We used a beautiful quartz throughout the kitchen and bar area.
We used a gray glass subway tile for the backsplash with an accent tile in a similar color over the range. We used that same accent tile for the bar adjacent to the kitchen. This area was previously a blank wall that our client didn't know what to do with. We added some storage, 2 wine fridges, and floating shelves with lighting to brighten up the space.

Garage door maintenance near Knoxville is essential to the longevity and proper function of a garage door. When a garage door receives appropriate care, irritating noise is reduced and the warranty is maintained. Having a professional service your door brings peace of mind and saves money in the long run by avoiding costly repairs or even replacement.
Garage Door Solutions of Tennessee is proud to carry the best garage door motors in the business. Our products offer features like: battery backup for when the power is out, and WiFi control, so you can access your garage door even if you are not home, LED Lighting, whisper quiet action and warranties.
If your garage doors are over 15 years old and are not operating properly, now may be the time to replace your garage doors. Garage door repairs on older garage doors often cost more than installing new ones. This is due to the limited availability of parts and upgraded garage door opener designs.
New garage doors provide quieter operation, more efficient functionality and increased curb appeal.
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333 TROY CIRCLE
SUITE V
KNOXVILLE, TN 37919
INFO@GARAGEDOORSOLUTIONSTN.COM

Blau-Thompson Residence
This Civil War era, 1680-square-foot three-story row house is located in the Italian Market section of Philadelphia. The BluPath Design principals and their young child were the clients. The project goal was to upgrade a traditional housing type to meet a contemporary lifestyle, applying both sustainable criteria and clean, modern yet sensual aesthetics. The challenge of the property (only 830 square feet in lot size) was to create a design that was small, but smart.
The structure formerly housed a luncheonette with two apartments above. The interior was gutted and renovated into a single family home. The construction of a small rear addition added a new kitchen on the first floor and new bathrooms on the second and third levels. The east-west orientation of the home was ideal for the roof-mounted solar collectors, which were installed to provide domestic hot water and supplement the new radiant floor heating system. Exterior sensors improve the efficiency of the heating system's response to fluctuations in outside temperature. A new white-coated, rubber membrane roof reduced the structure's heat gain by 20 percent. A water catch system collects rainwater and air conditioner condensation to water the home's small rear garden.
Large windows and skylights bring light deep into the row house and reduce the use of light fixtures. The rear yard garden features ipe decking (a dense, water-repellent hardwood) on permeable compacted gravel to minimize storm water runoff. BluPath Design’s principals used the project to demonstrate how sustainability can be integrated with beauty and function, with sensual materials and colors, well-proportioned and light-filled rooms, economic use of space, and thoughtful details. Cherry flooring and custom stairs complement the Indian slate tile in the kitchen and bathrooms. The kitchen features custom walnut cabinets with blue granite counters and backsplashes. The first floor dining area is illuminated by a BluPath-designed fiber-optic chandelier. Ipe hardwood is also used for the master bath tub-surround and shower floor. Sliding frosted glass panels separating the master bath from other living areas allows light from the corner windows to naturally illuminate the adjacent room.
Awards
Honorable Mention for Sustainability and Energy Efficiency
IIDA Philadelphia City Center Chapter 3rd Annual Interior Design Awards, June 2007
Bronze 2006 Commonwealth Design Award
10,000 Friends of PA, May 2006
Media
HGTV ‘What You Get for the Money’ February 2007
Philadelphia Style Magazine March/April 2007
Philadelphia Inquirer June 11, 2006
Philadelphia CityPaper September 25-October 2, 2003
Photography by Barry Halkin

Blau-Thompson Residence
This Civil War era, 1680-square-foot three-story row house is located in the Italian Market section of Philadelphia. The BluPath Design principals and their young child were the clients. The project goal was to upgrade a traditional housing type to meet a contemporary lifestyle, applying both sustainable criteria and clean, modern yet sensual aesthetics. The challenge of the property (only 830 square feet in lot size) was to create a design that was small, but smart.
The structure formerly housed a luncheonette with two apartments above. The interior was gutted and renovated into a single family home. The construction of a small rear addition added a new kitchen on the first floor and new bathrooms on the second and third levels. The east-west orientation of the home was ideal for the roof-mounted solar collectors, which were installed to provide domestic hot water and supplement the new radiant floor heating system. Exterior sensors improve the efficiency of the heating system's response to fluctuations in outside temperature. A new white-coated, rubber membrane roof reduced the structure's heat gain by 20 percent. A water catch system collects rainwater and air conditioner condensation to water the home's small rear garden.
Large windows and skylights bring light deep into the row house and reduce the use of light fixtures. The rear yard garden features ipe decking (a dense, water-repellent hardwood) on permeable compacted gravel to minimize storm water runoff. BluPath Design’s principals used the project to demonstrate how sustainability can be integrated with beauty and function, with sensual materials and colors, well-proportioned and light-filled rooms, economic use of space, and thoughtful details. Cherry flooring and custom stairs complement the Indian slate tile in the kitchen and bathrooms. The kitchen features custom walnut cabinets with blue granite counters and backsplashes. The first floor dining area is illuminated by a BluPath-designed fiber-optic chandelier. Ipe hardwood is also used for the master bath tub-surround and shower floor. Sliding frosted glass panels separating the master bath from other living areas allows light from the corner windows to naturally illuminate the adjacent room.
Awards
Honorable Mention for Sustainability and Energy Efficiency
IIDA Philadelphia City Center Chapter 3rd Annual Interior Design Awards, June 2007
Bronze 2006 Commonwealth Design Award
10,000 Friends of PA, May 2006
Media
HGTV ‘What You Get for the Money’ February 2007
Philadelphia Style Magazine March/April 2007
Philadelphia Inquirer June 11, 2006
Philadelphia CityPaper September 25-October 2, 2003
Photography by Barry Halkin

This 3,300 square foot, LEED Platinum, Zero Energy Home sits on a hill with a beautiful view of rural Frederick County. The walls are Aerated Autoclaved Concrete (AAC). Deep overhangs and careful siting maximize passive solar heating and natural cooling; all south facing glazing has a very low U value and high solar heat gain coefficient to maximize solar heat in the winter. The East, North and West windows also have a very low U values and low solar heat gain coefficient to reduce cooling load. Systems include 4.3 kW solar, 1.8 kW wind turbine, batteries for backup power, geothermal heating and cooling, Energy recovery ventilation and 3000 gallons of rainwater collection.

SUSTAINABLE DESIGN: Award of Excellence
PROJECT: Hazelwood Neighborhood Center
CLIENT: ACTION-Housing, Inc.
ARCHITECTURE FIRM: Thoughtful Balance
ENGINEERS: Iams Consulting, LLC; WBCM Engineering
CONTRACTORS: Nelcon Construction
PHOTOGRAPHER: Denmarsh Photography
DESCRIPTION: This building is in the heart of Hazelwood’s main commercial area and has a deep history with the community. The ground level houses office space for local non-profit groups and the upper floor is the new home of the Hazelwood branch of the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh. This project allowed the library to double the size of its space, providing a place to gather and come together. The renovation used the Passive House Retrofit Standard, focusing on a well-insulated building envelope with controlled ventilation, optimized passive solar heating, and energy efficiency.
JURY COMMENTS: The project demonstrates the potential in creative planning by increasing the useable size of an existing building and reducing the environmental impact at the same time. Metrics matter and this building made a point of demonstrating what the metrics of its sustainable design yielded.

This 3,300 square foot, LEED Platinum, Zero Energy Home sits on a hill with a beautiful view of rural Frederick County. The walls are Aerated Autoclaved Concrete (AAC). Deep overhangs and careful siting maximize passive solar heating and natural cooling; all south facing glazing has a very low U value and high solar heat gain coefficient to maximize solar heat in the winter. The East, North and West windows also have a very low U values and low solar heat gain coefficient to reduce cooling load. Systems include 4.3 kW solar, 1.8 kW wind turbine, batteries for backup power, geothermal heating and cooling, Energy recovery ventilation and 3000 gallons of rainwater collection.

STYLISH SHEFFIELD 2 PIECE TOILET WITH NO SLAM SLOW ROUND SEAT LID
This elegant ADA, cUPC, ANSI, and Watersense Compliant white Round seated toilet from The Renovators Supply Manufacturing is a well-designed and valuable fixture for your bathroom. Renovators Supply toilets meet and surpass EPA water conservation guidelines.
FEATURES
Unique White 2 Piece toilet with Round seat
Efficient dual-flush capability with which you can choose between a ''low'' 0.8 gallon flush and a ''high'' 1.6 gallon flush
White Round Grade A Vitreous China Toilet Bowl
Protective Reno-Gloss finish resists stains
Perfect-Height bowl reduces daily body strain
This Commode includes a slow closing round wiggle proof toilet seat
Bolt covers are sold separately
Ergonomic design principles mean this toilet takes up very little space while remaining comfortable.
Offers Pantone color to match existing fixtures.

STYLISH SHEFFIELD 2 PIECE TOILET WITH NO SLAM SLOW ELONGATED SEAT LID
This elegant ADA, cUPC, ANSI, and Watersense Compliant white Elongated seated toilet from The Renovators Supply Manufacturing is a well-designed and valuable fixture for your bathroom. Renovators Supply toilets meet and surpass EPA water conservation guidelines.
FEATURES
Unique White 2 Piece toilet with Elongated seat
Efficient dual-flush capability with which you can choose between a ''low'' 0.8 gallon flush and a ''high'' 1.6 gallon flush
White Elongated Grade A Vitreous China Toilet Bowl
Protective Reno-Gloss finish resists stains
Perfect-Height bowl reduces daily body strain
This Commode includes a slow closing elongated wiggle proof toilet seat
Bolt covers are sold separately
Ergonomic design principles mean this toilet takes up very little space while remaining comfortable.

The Arcadia Louvered Roof enhances the beauty of any style home and provides the flexibility of having an open roof when the weather is good or a solid roof to keep the rain off your patio when the weather turns bad.
Eco-friendly Construction
The Arcadia system is made up of recycled aluminum making it an extremely Green product. It is also eco-friendly, helping consumers save on passive solar heating and cooling.
We Think Green
Arcadia is proud to continue the company's tradition with its approach to Environmental Innovation. From the choice of lightweight materials and lean production methods to the efficiency of its drive system and designs, Arcadia is committed to operating as a more sustainable business and reducing its overall environmental impact.
High-quality Building Materials
Each Arcadia system is a work of art, constructed with care and attention to every little detail.
Our system is powered coated, extruded aluminum with stainless steel components giving us the most durable louvered roof on the market today. From our superior drive system, which is UL & CE certified, down to the stainless steel tex screws that secures the system together. Nothing but the best!
Our low-maintenance components eliminate painting, staining, and waterproofing of traditional shading structures. Using powder-coated aluminum construction prevents warping, cracking, and corrosion.
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