Sunlight and home orientation are a big factor when considering how to build an energy efficient Net Zero home. Exposure to the sun has a lot of implications for heating and cooling. This was the case with our clients' home which was southeast facing with a bank of large triple pane windows. That provided very bright, insulated spaces that got a lot of sunlight, reducing the need for heating in the winter time. For the hot summer days, the blinds help to reduce the amount of heat generated by sunlight, while the triple pane windows help to insulate the cool air, reducing the need for A/C cooling and leading to year round energy conservation.

Inspiration for a garage remodel in Other

Newly constructed home located in the Zilker neighborhood of Austin. The existing bungalow on the property was deconstructed, with materials set aside for re-use in the new home. Goal of the project was to source exclusively from these existing materials, as well as materials salvaged from the homeowners' family ranch in West Texas. The remaining products and materials were sourced locally and made in the USA whenever possible, to lower the carbon footprint and support local manufacturers and artisans. Architecture by Loop Design Whit Preston, Photographer

This is an example of a large hillside landscaping in San Francisco.

Photo of a contemporary front yard landscaping in Boston.

Bernice Fielding
Inspiration for a tropical landscaping in Hawaii.

PROGRAM: RESIDENTIAL LOCATION: DUNKIRK ESTATE, SALT ROCK, SOUTH AFRICA SIZE: 350m² Located within Dunkirk Estate, this design maximises the potential of the small site. It minimises impact on the surrounding environment by reducing cut and fill. The building opens up to the north and south to maximise natural light and reduce solar heat gain. All windows on the upper ground floor slide away to promote cross ventilation and promote indoor/outdoor living. The large expanse of Low-E glass captures views into the forest from both levels, whilst maintaining a good thermal performance The rainwater collected from the 15000 litre harvesting system will be used to flush toilets and irrigate the landscaping. The indigenous green roof not only reduces heat gain in summer and heat loss in winter, it also serves to visually integrate the built environment with the natural surrounding vegetation. The interiors were designed by Moos Interior Architects.

Inspiration for a large hillside landscaping in San Francisco.

Inspiration for a contemporary home design remodel in Toronto

Trimming the tree trunks uniformly will show the fence in behind in the lower sections and train the canopy growth to fill out in the upper sections
Photo of a mid-sized modern full sun hillside wood fence retaining wall landscape in Vancouver for spring.

M. Lee Brokaw
Minimalist home design photo in San Francisco

WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN LOOKING FOR BIOPHILIC WALL ART While you’ll never go wrong by choosing nature-based images, there are particular scenes, colors and styles that will produce the greatest biophilic impact in your space. First and foremost, realistic photographic images of nature or nature scenes tend to produce the most robust biophilic benefits. Realistic scenes stimulate a person’s imagination in a gentle and comforting way, allowing his or her mind to calmly wander through a familiar view. When people look at photographs, they think to themselves, “I’ve never been there before but I know that this is a place that exists and I want to go there”.

Sunlight and home orientation are a big factor when considering how to build an energy efficient Net Zero home. Exposure to the sun has a lot of implications for heating and cooling. This was the case with our clients' home which was southeast facing with a bank of large triple pane windows. That provided very bright, insulated spaces that got a lot of sunlight, reducing the need for heating in the winter time. For the hot summer days, the blinds help to reduce the amount of heat generated by sunlight, while the triple pane windows help to insulate the cool air, reducing the need for A/C cooling and leading to year round energy conservation.

Design ideas for a tropical landscaping in Hawaii.

Sunlight and home orientation are a big factor when considering how to build an energy efficient Net Zero home. Exposure to the sun has a lot of implications for heating and cooling. This was the case with our clients' home which was southeast facing with a bank of large triple pane windows. That provided very bright, insulated spaces that got a lot of sunlight, reducing the need for heating in the winter time. For the hot summer days, the blinds help to reduce the amount of heat generated by sunlight, while the triple pane windows help to insulate the cool air, reducing the need for A/C cooling and leading to year round energy conservation.

A bento box is more than just a lunch container—it’s a reflection of Japanese culture, mindful eating, and balanced nutrition. Traditionally used in Japan, bento boxes have gained global popularity due to their practicality, aesthetic appeal, and ability to promote healthy eating habits. What Is a Bento Box? A bento box is a single-portion packed meal, neatly arranged in a compartmentalized container. The word “bento” originates from the Chinese term meaning convenient, which perfectly describes its purpose. A typical bento includes rice or noodles, protein like fish, meat, or tofu, and a variety of vegetables or side dishes, all placed in separate sections to maintain flavor and presentation. Cultural Significance of Bento Boxes In Japan, bento boxes represent care, effort, and balance. Parents often prepare bento meals for their children as a symbol of love, while office workers rely on them for nutritious meals during busy days. Special versions like ekiben (railway station bento) and character bento (decorated meals shaped like animals or cartoons) highlight the creativity and cultural importance of bento-making. Health Benefits of Using a Bento Box One of the biggest advantages of a bento box is its role in portion control and balanced nutrition. Since the box has fixed compartments, it encourages variety without overeating. A well-prepared bento typically follows the principle of: 40–50% carbohydrates 30–40% vegetables 20–30% protein This balance helps maintain energy levels, supports digestion, and reduces the reliance on unhealthy fast food. Modern Bento Boxes and Their Uses Today’s bento boxes are designed to suit modern lifestyles. They are available in microwave-safe, leak-proof, and eco-friendly materials such as stainless steel, BPA-free plastic, and bamboo fiber. Many come with insulated layers, sauce containers, and cutlery, making them ideal for: Office lunches School meals Travel and picnics Fitness and meal-prep routines With the rise of sustainable living, reusable bento boxes also help reduce single-use plastic waste. Bento Boxes in Everyday Life Bento boxes are no longer limited to Japanese cuisine. People worldwide use them to pack Indian, Western, vegan, or keto meals. From chapati and sabzi to pasta and salads, bento boxes adapt easily to different food preferences while keeping meals fresh and organized. Why Bento Boxes Are So Popular Today The popularity of bento boxes is driven by busy schedules, health awareness, and social media trends. Platforms like Instagram and Pinterest showcase beautifully arranged bento meals, inspiring people to eat better and enjoy the process of food preparation. They combine functionality, aesthetics, and mindfulness, making meals more enjoyable. Conclusion A bento box is a smart and stylish way to enjoy homemade meals while staying healthy and organized. Whether you’re looking to improve your diet, save money, or reduce environmental impact, a bento box offers a simple yet effective solution. With its deep cultural roots and modern versatility, the bento box continues to be a timeless companion for everyday meals.

Newly constructed home located in the Zilker neighborhood of Austin. The existing bungalow on the property was deconstructed, with materials set aside for re-use in the new home. Goal of the project was to source exclusively from these existing materials, as well as materials salvaged from the homeowners' family ranch in West Texas. The remaining products and materials were sourced locally and made in the USA whenever possible, to lower the carbon footprint and support local manufacturers and artisans. Architecture by Loop Design Whit Preston, Photographer

Home design - contemporary home design idea in Toronto