Sometimes, all a space needs is a face-lift to effect a transformation; such was the case for this project. This complete bathroom renovation was all about adding color and panache to the existing space. The layout remained much the same, but the finishing touches made all the difference. Our team installed sleek, high-quality modern fixtures, including the faucets, toilet and the light fixture. We also employed space-saving strategies at the owner’s request. For example, the wall-mounted, low-profile vanity and glass splashguard (in lieu of a full door) lend a feeling of expansiveness and ease to the bathroom. Want to revitalize and refresh a space in your home? Contact the Houseplay team today! Photo Credit: Anne Ruthmann Photography

The SIX is a 52-unit affordable housing project provides a home, support services and rehabilitation for disabled veterans. It is located in the MacArthur Park area of Los Angeles. McArthur Park has one of the highest densities in the USA with over 38,000 people per square mile and a total population of 120,000 people in 2.72 square miles. Offering shelter and comfort, the SIX breaks the prescriptive mold of the traditional shelter by creating public and private "zones" in which private space is deemphasized, in favor of large public areas. The organization of the space is intended to transform the way people live-away from a reclusive, isolating layout towards a community-oriented, interactive space. The ground level contains offices, support spaces for the veterans, bike storage and parking while the second level has a large public courtyard. Surrounded by four levels of housing units with balconies wrapped with a wood screen made from recycle planking the courtyard has large openings with green roofs that visually connects the space to the street on the lower level beyond. This allows the tenants to enjoy a secured open space while still connecting to the larger community. The uppermost level has a green roof, large public patio and edible garden with panoramic views of the area. The SIX distinguishes itself from most conventionally developed projects in that it incorporates energy efficient measures that exceed standard practice, optimize building performance, and ensure reduced energy use during all phases of construction and occupancy. The planning and design emerged from close consideration and employment of passive design strategies. These strategies include: locating and orienting the building to control solar cooling loads; shaping and orienting the building for exposure to prevailing winds; shaping the building to induce buoyancy for natural ventilation; designing windows to maximize day lighting; shading south facing windows and minimizing west-facing glazing; designing windows to maximize natural ventilation; utilizing low flow fixtures and storm water management; shaping and planning the interior to enhance daylight and natural air flow distribution. These passive strategies alone make this building 50% more efficient than a conventionally designed structure.

THE SETUP Upon moving to Glen Ellyn, the homeowners were eager to infuse their new residence with a style that resonated with their modern aesthetic sensibilities. The primary bathroom, while spacious and structurally impressive with its dramatic high ceilings, presented a dated, overly traditional appearance that clashed with their vision. Design objectives: Transform the space into a serene, modern spa-like sanctuary. Integrate a palette of deep, earthy tones to create a rich, enveloping ambiance. Employ a blend of organic and natural textures to foster a connection with nature. THE REMODEL Design challenges: Take full advantage of the vaulted ceiling Source unique marble that is more grounding than fanciful Design minimal, modern cabinetry with a natural, organic finish Offer a unique lighting plan to create a sexy, Zen vibe Design solutions: To highlight the vaulted ceiling, we extended the shower tile to the ceiling and added a skylight to bathe the area in natural light. Sourced unique marble with raw, chiseled edges that provide a tactile, earthy element. Our custom-designed cabinetry in a minimal, modern style features a natural finish, complementing the organic theme. A truly creative layered lighting strategy dials in the perfect Zen-like atmosphere. The wavy protruding wall tile lights triggered our inspiration but came with an unintended harsh direct-light effect so we sourced a solution: bespoke diffusers measured and cut for the top and bottom of each tile light gap. THE RENEWED SPACE The homeowners dreamed of a tranquil, luxurious retreat that embraced natural materials and a captivating color scheme. Our collaborative effort brought this vision to life, creating a bathroom that not only meets the clients’ functional needs but also serves as a daily sanctuary. The carefully chosen materials and lighting design enable the space to shift its character with the changing light of day. “Trust the process and it will all come together,” the home owners shared. “Sometimes we just stand here and think, ‘Wow, this is lovely!'”

When your apartment boasts spectacular river and city views, you want this vista to be the star attraction. The best strategy for achieving this is employing a quiet, serene and monochromatic theme. Here it’s ¾” rift cut white oak with a natural finish throughout. Flat panel doors with beveled integral finger recesses reinforce the clean concept. White oak flooring adds to the calm environment. One of the home’s studies is adjacent to the dining room, separated only by sliding smoked glass doors. The study can be closed off while entertaining, but the scenery is still within view. Bookcases lining opposite walls feature drawer storage on the bottom and 2” wide floor-to-ceiling stiles dividing the sections and contributing a prominent vertical element. 2” thick wood countertops match the 2” shelves that incorporate routed grooves in their undersides housing LED strips to illuminate the contents. On one wall is a suspended desktop that aligns with the countertops and provides a convenient computer station. Furnishings wisely complement the monochromatic motif with upholstery, throw pillows, drapery and area rugs in shades of cream and beige. But the wooden legs, dining table and accent pieces deliver touches of contrast with their dark stained walnut finishes. This project was done in collaboration with Sarah Witkin, AIA of Bilotta Architecture, and Michelle Pereira of Innato Interiors LLC. Photography by Stefan Radtke.

THE SETUP Upon moving to Glen Ellyn, the homeowners were eager to infuse their new residence with a style that resonated with their modern aesthetic sensibilities. The primary bathroom, while spacious and structurally impressive with its dramatic high ceilings, presented a dated, overly traditional appearance that clashed with their vision. Design objectives: Transform the space into a serene, modern spa-like sanctuary. Integrate a palette of deep, earthy tones to create a rich, enveloping ambiance. Employ a blend of organic and natural textures to foster a connection with nature. THE REMODEL Design challenges: Take full advantage of the vaulted ceiling Source unique marble that is more grounding than fanciful Design minimal, modern cabinetry with a natural, organic finish Offer a unique lighting plan to create a sexy, Zen vibe Design solutions: To highlight the vaulted ceiling, we extended the shower tile to the ceiling and added a skylight to bathe the area in natural light. Sourced unique marble with raw, chiseled edges that provide a tactile, earthy element. Our custom-designed cabinetry in a minimal, modern style features a natural finish, complementing the organic theme. A truly creative layered lighting strategy dials in the perfect Zen-like atmosphere. The wavy protruding wall tile lights triggered our inspiration but came with an unintended harsh direct-light effect so we sourced a solution: bespoke diffusers measured and cut for the top and bottom of each tile light gap. THE RENEWED SPACE The homeowners dreamed of a tranquil, luxurious retreat that embraced natural materials and a captivating color scheme. Our collaborative effort brought this vision to life, creating a bathroom that not only meets the clients’ functional needs but also serves as a daily sanctuary. The carefully chosen materials and lighting design enable the space to shift its character with the changing light of day. “Trust the process and it will all come together,” the home owners shared. “Sometimes we just stand here and think, ‘Wow, this is lovely!'”

THE SETUP Upon moving to Glen Ellyn, the homeowners were eager to infuse their new residence with a style that resonated with their modern aesthetic sensibilities. The primary bathroom, while spacious and structurally impressive with its dramatic high ceilings, presented a dated, overly traditional appearance that clashed with their vision. Design objectives: Transform the space into a serene, modern spa-like sanctuary. Integrate a palette of deep, earthy tones to create a rich, enveloping ambiance. Employ a blend of organic and natural textures to foster a connection with nature. THE REMODEL Design challenges: Take full advantage of the vaulted ceiling Source unique marble that is more grounding than fanciful Design minimal, modern cabinetry with a natural, organic finish Offer a unique lighting plan to create a sexy, Zen vibe Design solutions: To highlight the vaulted ceiling, we extended the shower tile to the ceiling and added a skylight to bathe the area in natural light. Sourced unique marble with raw, chiseled edges that provide a tactile, earthy element. Our custom-designed cabinetry in a minimal, modern style features a natural finish, complementing the organic theme. A truly creative layered lighting strategy dials in the perfect Zen-like atmosphere. The wavy protruding wall tile lights triggered our inspiration but came with an unintended harsh direct-light effect so we sourced a solution: bespoke diffusers measured and cut for the top and bottom of each tile light gap. THE RENEWED SPACE The homeowners dreamed of a tranquil, luxurious retreat that embraced natural materials and a captivating color scheme. Our collaborative effort brought this vision to life, creating a bathroom that not only meets the clients’ functional needs but also serves as a daily sanctuary. The carefully chosen materials and lighting design enable the space to shift its character with the changing light of day. “Trust the process and it will all come together,” the home owners shared. “Sometimes we just stand here and think, ‘Wow, this is lovely!'”

When your apartment boasts spectacular river and city views, you want this vista to be the star attraction. The best strategy for achieving this is employing a quiet, serene and monochromatic theme. Here it’s ¾” rift cut white oak with a natural finish throughout. Flat panel doors with beveled integral finger recesses reinforce the clean concept. White oak flooring adds to the calm environment. One of the home’s studies is adjacent to the dining room, separated only by sliding smoked glass doors. The study can be closed off while entertaining, but the scenery is still within view. Bookcases lining opposite walls feature drawer storage on the bottom and 2” wide floor-to-ceiling stiles dividing the sections and contributing a prominent vertical element. 2” thick wood countertops match the 2” shelves that incorporate routed grooves in their undersides housing LED strips to illuminate the contents. On one wall is a suspended desktop that aligns with the countertops and provides a convenient computer station. Furnishings wisely complement the monochromatic motif with upholstery, throw pillows, drapery and area rugs in shades of cream and beige. But the wooden legs, dining table and accent pieces deliver touches of contrast with their dark stained walnut finishes. This project was done in collaboration with Sarah Witkin, AIA of Bilotta Architecture, and Michelle Pereira of Innato Interiors LLC. Photography by Stefan Radtke.

Three generations have shared summers together at this very special place called Merry Hill. Recognizing their shifting needs and looking forward to future generations, the clients wanted to both drastically change their beloved family lake house and yet not change it at all. This new iteration of the cottage is nearly double the size of the original, transforming their summer home into a four-season getaway while evoking the character of the original house in a new and fresh way. The main cottage, boathouse and sleeping cabin all have broad, shallow-pitched roofs with generous overhangs that derive their form from their mid-century predecessor. Expansive openings, wood interiors, operable clerestories, and local stone double-stacked fireplaces are all familiar to the clients but rendered in different scales. Designed for resiliency and sustainability, the new retreat employs an integrated generator, geothermal heating, solar arrays, and battery storage as well as incorporates passive strategies such as sun orientation, earth sheltering, and cross ventilation to keep the interior at an ideal temperature all year round. The resulting form, detailing, and material selections of this new build allows for the seamless continuity of memory-making for a sentimental family.

Inspiration for a mid-sized contemporary backyard tile patio kitchen remodel in Toronto with a roof extension

Sometimes, all a space needs is a face-lift to effect a transformation; such was the case for this project. This complete bathroom renovation was all about adding color and panache to the existing space. The layout remained much the same, but the finishing touches made all the difference. Our team installed sleek, high-quality modern fixtures, including the faucets, toilet and the light fixture. We also employed space-saving strategies at the owner’s request. For example, the wall-mounted, low-profile vanity and glass splashguard (in lieu of a full door) lend a feeling of expansiveness and ease to the bathroom. Want to revitalize and refresh a space in your home? Contact the Houseplay team today! Photo Credit: Anne Ruthmann Photography

Three generations have shared summers together at this very special place called Merry Hill. Recognizing their shifting needs and looking forward to future generations, the clients wanted to both drastically change their beloved family lake house and yet not change it at all. This new iteration of the cottage is nearly double the size of the original, transforming their summer home into a four-season getaway while evoking the character of the original house in a new and fresh way. The main cottage, boathouse and sleeping cabin all have broad, shallow-pitched roofs with generous overhangs that derive their form from their mid-century predecessor. Expansive openings, wood interiors, operable clerestories, and local stone double-stacked fireplaces are all familiar to the clients but rendered in different scales. Designed for resiliency and sustainability, the new retreat employs an integrated generator, geothermal heating, solar arrays, and battery storage as well as incorporates passive strategies such as sun orientation, earth sheltering, and cross ventilation to keep the interior at an ideal temperature all year round. The resulting form, detailing, and material selections of this new build allows for the seamless continuity of memory-making for a sentimental family.

ENGINEERING + SCIENCE: Award of Excellence PROJECT: Chatham University Eden Hall Campus CLIENT: Chatham University ENGINEERS: Civil & Environmental Consultants, Inc.; Biohabitats; Interface Engineering ARCHITECTURE FIRM: Mithūn CONTRACTORS: SOTA Construction Services, Inc. PHOTOGRAPHER: Annie O’Neill Photography DESCRIPTION: The Eden Hall Campus’ stormwater and wastewater management systems employ a number of proven strategies and technologies in combination and with a unique decentralized approach. A “treat it where it falls” approach utilizes a series of rain gardens around the site to manage small drainage areas while roof runoff is directed to a 50,000 gallon retention tank and is repurposed for site irrigation needs. The wastewater treatment system includes individual building primary treatment tanks and two sub-surface constructed wetland cells. Site design and landscape not only performs a functional purpose for stormwater and wastewater but also provides an aesthetic bridge between the architecture and the site. JURY COMMENTS: This building reminds us of the importance of water, and also basic and natural technologies that are highly effective. The complete built project functions as an efficient machine while never giving the appearance of being a machine. As a first phase of a proposed new campus, the standards are already set impressively high.

Three generations have shared summers together at this very special place called Merry Hill. Recognizing their shifting needs and looking forward to future generations, the clients wanted to both drastically change their beloved family lake house and yet not change it at all. This new iteration of the cottage is nearly double the size of the original, transforming their summer home into a four-season getaway while evoking the character of the original house in a new and fresh way. The main cottage, boathouse and sleeping cabin all have broad, shallow-pitched roofs with generous overhangs that derive their form from their mid-century predecessor. Expansive openings, wood interiors, operable clerestories, and local stone double-stacked fireplaces are all familiar to the clients but rendered in different scales. Designed for resiliency and sustainability, the new retreat employs an integrated generator, geothermal heating, solar arrays, and battery storage as well as incorporates passive strategies such as sun orientation, earth sheltering, and cross ventilation to keep the interior at an ideal temperature all year round. The resulting form, detailing, and material selections of this new build allows for the seamless continuity of memory-making for a sentimental family.

The SIX is a 52-unit affordable housing project provides a home, support services and rehabilitation for disabled veterans. It is located in the MacArthur Park area of Los Angeles. McArthur Park has one of the highest densities in the USA with over 38,000 people per square mile and a total population of 120,000 people in 2.72 square miles. Offering shelter and comfort, the SIX breaks the prescriptive mold of the traditional shelter by creating public and private "zones" in which private space is deemphasized, in favor of large public areas. The organization of the space is intended to transform the way people live-away from a reclusive, isolating layout towards a community-oriented, interactive space. The ground level contains offices, support spaces for the veterans, bike storage and parking while the second level has a large public courtyard. Surrounded by four levels of housing units with balconies wrapped with a wood screen made from recycle planking the courtyard has large openings with green roofs that visually connects the space to the street on the lower level beyond. This allows the tenants to enjoy a secured open space while still connecting to the larger community. The uppermost level has a green roof, large public patio and edible garden with panoramic views of the area. The SIX distinguishes itself from most conventionally developed projects in that it incorporates energy efficient measures that exceed standard practice, optimize building performance, and ensure reduced energy use during all phases of construction and occupancy. The planning and design emerged from close consideration and employment of passive design strategies. These strategies include: locating and orienting the building to control solar cooling loads; shaping and orienting the building for exposure to prevailing winds; shaping the building to induce buoyancy for natural ventilation; designing windows to maximize day lighting; shading south facing windows and minimizing west-facing glazing; designing windows to maximize natural ventilation; utilizing low flow fixtures and storm water management; shaping and planning the interior to enhance daylight and natural air flow distribution. These passive strategies alone make this building 50% more efficient than a conventionally designed structure.

The SIX is a 52-unit affordable housing project provides a home, support services and rehabilitation for disabled veterans. It is located in the MacArthur Park area of Los Angeles. McArthur Park has one of the highest densities in the USA with over 38,000 people per square mile and a total population of 120,000 people in 2.72 square miles. Offering shelter and comfort, the SIX breaks the prescriptive mold of the traditional shelter by creating public and private "zones" in which private space is deemphasized, in favor of large public areas. The organization of the space is intended to transform the way people live-away from a reclusive, isolating layout towards a community-oriented, interactive space. The ground level contains offices, support spaces for the veterans, bike storage and parking while the second level has a large public courtyard. Surrounded by four levels of housing units with balconies wrapped with a wood screen made from recycle planking the courtyard has large openings with green roofs that visually connects the space to the street on the lower level beyond. This allows the tenants to enjoy a secured open space while still connecting to the larger community. The uppermost level has a green roof, large public patio and edible garden with panoramic views of the area. The SIX distinguishes itself from most conventionally developed projects in that it incorporates energy efficient measures that exceed standard practice, optimize building performance, and ensure reduced energy use during all phases of construction and occupancy. The planning and design emerged from close consideration and employment of passive design strategies. These strategies include: locating and orienting the building to control solar cooling loads; shaping and orienting the building for exposure to prevailing winds; shaping the building to induce buoyancy for natural ventilation; designing windows to maximize day lighting; shading south facing windows and minimizing west-facing glazing; designing windows to maximize natural ventilation; utilizing low flow fixtures and storm water management; shaping and planning the interior to enhance daylight and natural air flow distribution. These passive strategies alone make this building 50% more efficient than a conventionally designed structure.

PROJECT SCOPE & OBJECTIVES The homeowners are avid admirers of the Versace lifestyle and aesthetic and challenged our team to create a highly personalized primary suite that embodied the drama, sophistication, glamour, and artistic expression associated with the iconic fashion house. The objective was not simply to renovate an aging bathroom, but to completely reimagine the entire primary suite experience—including both the bathroom and adjoining walk-in closet—as a luxury wellness and dressing retreat. The existing bathroom and closet featured traditional finishes, compartmentalized spaces, builder-grade storage solutions, and a dated design vocabulary that no longer reflected the homeowners’ tastes or lifestyle. The scope of work included a complete demolition and redesign of the primary bathroom and custom walk-in closet, encompassing all finishes, cabinetry, plumbing fixtures, lighting, architectural details, decorative elements, custom storage systems, and specialty millwork. The design intent centered on creating a bold, immersive environment utilizing dramatic monochromatic tones, custom fabricated elements, statement lighting, oversized stone applications, curated artwork, and a sophisticated interplay of texture and materiality. Every component was carefully selected to contribute to a cohesive luxury experience where the bathroom and closet function as a unified extension of one another. The resulting design transformed a conventional primary suite into a highly customized sanctuary that reflects the owners’ passion for fashion, art, luxury, and contemporary design. PROJECT CHALLENGES One of the primary challenges was translating the essence of the Versace brand into a residential environment without creating a literal or themed interpretation. The goal was to capture the emotion, elegance, and drama associated with high fashion while ensuring the spaces remained timeless, refined, and highly functional. Another significant challenge involved balancing a predominantly dark color palette throughout both the bathroom and dressing room environments. Dark materials can easily feel heavy or oppressive if not carefully executed. Particular attention had to be given to lighting design, material selection, visual layering, and texture to ensure the spaces remained inviting while maintaining their dramatic character. The walk-in closet presented its own unique design challenge. The owners desired a dressing room that would function as an extension of the luxury bathroom experience rather than a separate utilitarian storage area. The challenge was to transform a standard builder-grade closet into a sophisticated fashion-inspired environment capable of displaying clothing, handbags, accessories, and collectibles in a manner consistent with the overall design vision. Additionally, the project required the successful integration of numerous statement elements—including oversized stone surfaces, custom lighting installations, decorative mirrors, artwork, architectural wall treatments, bespoke cabinetry, and specialty storage systems—while maintaining visual harmony and preventing the space from feeling overly busy or cluttered. PROJECT SOLUTIONS To achieve the desired aesthetic, our team developed a comprehensive design strategy centered around contrast, texture, craftsmanship, and visual drama. A sophisticated palette of charcoal, black, graphite, and metallic gold tones was employed throughout the suite, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of luxury hospitality environments and haute couture fashion houses. The focal point of the bathroom became the sculptural freestanding soaking tub positioned on a custom stone platform with LED lighting and framed by an oversized feature wall clad in dramatically veined stone. This installation establishes an immediate sense of luxury and serves as the visual anchor of the entire suite. The walk-in closet was reimagined as a boutique-inspired dressing room featuring custom-designed black oak cabinetry, integrated LED lighting, specialty display shelving, illuminated storage niches, custom accessory organization, and a central dressing vanity. The design intentionally blurs the line between residential closet and luxury retail environment, allowing fashion, accessories, and personal collections to become part of the overall design composition. To offset the darker finishes throughout both spaces, layered lighting was incorporated using recessed illumination, integrated LED accents, decorative fixtures, display lighting, and reflective surfaces. These elements create depth and dimension while highlighting the richness of the materials and craftsmanship. Custom fabricated cabinetry, oversized stone surfaces, designer mirrors, curated artwork, architectural wall treatments, and carefully selected decorative elements were utilized throughout the suite to create a fully immersive environment where every detail contributes to a unified design narrative. The completed project successfully transformed a dated primary suite into an extraordinary luxury retreat that merges the worlds of fashion, hospitality, wellness, and residential design. The result is a highly personalized environment that reflects the homeowners’ lifestyle while demonstrating exceptional craftsmanship, innovative design thinking, and meticulous execution.

Pool House, Westlake Hills, Texas Located in the City of Westlake Hills, this pool house, swimming pool, spa and terraced landscape employs a unique sustainable design strategy. Impervious cover and storm water run off regulations within the city are very tight. This project choices a high quality solid color porcelain mosaic tile to build the pool , It's durable, easy on the feet, and offers a beautiful underwater shimmer, making it a common choice for pool . Finding the right tile takes time, careful research, and an understanding of the look you're trying to achieve - not only in the pool itself, but for the surrounding areas as well. Bluwhale tile offers a you a turn-key pool building solution ,which is available from pool designing , material supplies and a dootstep delivery service . Our team will work with you to design your luxury outdoor oasis. From the first call, to the completion and opening of your swimming pool or spa, Bluwhale will demonstrate world-class customer service and support that our customers come to expect and deserve. We understand the engineering behind our pools and spas and have the confidence and skill to make your dream outdoor space come true. Bluwhale offer pools and spasbuilding material that are among the best of the best in China. We know you seek superior high quality and unique design material for your pool, and we have the experience to create stunning custom pools and spas. We are recognized throughout the industry as a leader in custom pools and spas and look forward to providing you with your very own luxury pool or spa that will exceed your expectations.

Three generations have shared summers together at this very special place called Merry Hill. Recognizing their shifting needs and looking forward to future generations, the clients wanted to both drastically change their beloved family lake house and yet not change it at all. This new iteration of the cottage is nearly double the size of the original, transforming their summer home into a four-season getaway while evoking the character of the original house in a new and fresh way. The main cottage, boathouse and sleeping cabin all have broad, shallow-pitched roofs with generous overhangs that derive their form from their mid-century predecessor. Expansive openings, wood interiors, operable clerestories, and local stone double-stacked fireplaces are all familiar to the clients but rendered in different scales. Designed for resiliency and sustainability, the new retreat employs an integrated generator, geothermal heating, solar arrays, and battery storage as well as incorporates passive strategies such as sun orientation, earth sheltering, and cross ventilation to keep the interior at an ideal temperature all year round. The resulting form, detailing, and material selections of this new build allows for the seamless continuity of memory-making for a sentimental family.

The SIX is a 52-unit affordable housing project provides a home, support services and rehabilitation for disabled veterans. It is located in the MacArthur Park area of Los Angeles. McArthur Park has one of the highest densities in the USA with over 38,000 people per square mile and a total population of 120,000 people in 2.72 square miles. Offering shelter and comfort, the SIX breaks the prescriptive mold of the traditional shelter by creating public and private "zones" in which private space is deemphasized, in favor of large public areas. The organization of the space is intended to transform the way people live-away from a reclusive, isolating layout towards a community-oriented, interactive space. The ground level contains offices, support spaces for the veterans, bike storage and parking while the second level has a large public courtyard. Surrounded by four levels of housing units with balconies wrapped with a wood screen made from recycle planking the courtyard has large openings with green roofs that visually connects the space to the street on the lower level beyond. This allows the tenants to enjoy a secured open space while still connecting to the larger community. The uppermost level has a green roof, large public patio and edible garden with panoramic views of the area. The SIX distinguishes itself from most conventionally developed projects in that it incorporates energy efficient measures that exceed standard practice, optimize building performance, and ensure reduced energy use during all phases of construction and occupancy. The planning and design emerged from close consideration and employment of passive design strategies. These strategies include: locating and orienting the building to control solar cooling loads; shaping and orienting the building for exposure to prevailing winds; shaping the building to induce buoyancy for natural ventilation; designing windows to maximize day lighting; shading south facing windows and minimizing west-facing glazing; designing windows to maximize natural ventilation; utilizing low flow fixtures and storm water management; shaping and planning the interior to enhance daylight and natural air flow distribution. These passive strategies alone make this building 50% more efficient than a conventionally designed structure.