Tuesday, May 20, 2008

Lean Green Design Machine

imageHouse and Home's May 08 issue focused completely on eco-conscious design, but there was one home in particular that really jumped out at me.

Not only is this lakeside Ontario abode environmentally-friendly, but the entire home maintains a spare yet fashionable modern aesthetic that suits the needs of its large family to a tee.

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Designed by owner Tina Tymchuk (who doesn't have any formal training), the two-storey house has the smallest footprint possible without compromising the contemporary, yet individual style.

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The cushy white couch and the hide (typical me) are so inviting and as Cassandra from Coco + Kelly would say, the coffee table is totally orGLAMic!

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The kitchen's dining nook is my favourite part of the house. The dramatic black chandelier juxtaposed against the bright white walls and cushioned banquette seating with additional clear Louis ghost chairs is absolutely fabulous!!

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I love the industrial yet spa-like feel of the bathrooms. The teak floor and woven baskets add warmth to the metal shelving and the unique porcelain sinks add even more visual interest.

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When you look at this stylish design,  you wouldn't scream "green" (besides the obvious metal exterior of course)... so what makes this house so eco-chic?

Besides the common use of compact fluorescent bulbs, no VOC paints, energy star appliances and low-flow bathroom and kitchen fixtures, the house has these earth-friendly features:

  • metal siding and roof that can be recycled
  • radiant in-floor heating with a high-efficiency boiler means no need for a gas-burning furnace
  • heat recovery ventilation system
  • polished concrete floors that retain warmth in winter and stay cool in summer

Good work Tina and great work House and Home for sharing so many inspiring designs that are green and gorgeous!

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

greast post jess! this home is pretty fab - thanks for highlighting it.

MABELLE said...

I. want. to. live. in. this. HOUSE!!!! So gorgeous!! You've convinced me to pick up a copy!