Paul Rudolph’s Iconic Walker Guest House To Be Re-Constructed

WALKER GUEST HOUSE

I was reading my daily edition of ArchDaily earlier this week, when I came across an article on the Walker Guest House in Sarasota, Florida.  It caught my I 

What I love about this modernist house is its very specific approach to sustainable design.

INTERIOR, WALKER GUEST HOUSE

The Walker Guest House was built in 1952 characterized by a particular attention to climate and terrain. Using only standard, locally sourced materials, the Walker Guest House pays respect to its environmental context of southwest Florida. Large windows and screens on all four sides of the house allow air to flow throughout the dwelling, removing the need for air-conditioning whilst simultaneously providing generous views out towards the landscape.

One of the more whimsical components of the cottage are the series of ropes and pulleys, counterbalanced by large red concrete balls, that control the external window shades. These shades ensure flexibility by providing the dwelling with security, permeability and shelter from the sun. This allows the architecture to remain dynamic, adapting to the changing needs of the occupants while “gracefully” withstanding the elements.

TOTALLY AWESOME!

- Eddy

Giorgio Caporaso Ecodesign Collection

Olá!

Recently, I came across a new eco-sustainable furniture collection for the Hotel and Catering industry in my recent email from Archiproducts.

The Giorgio Caporaso Ecodesign Collection of high-performance innovative products, which are stylish and can be customized to meet an endless array of tastes and requirements. Modular systems and convertible objects that can be repaired, are easy to assemble and disassemble and designed to accommodate the multifarious needs of hotels, restaurants and public houses and bars of the third millennium. 

The pieces that caught my attention are cardboard.

MORE LIGHT Ecodesign Bookshelf

X2CHAIR - Cardboard armchair / lounge chair

X2CHAIR - Wood armchair / lounge chair

When I saw the X2CHAIR in wood, it reminded of the movement in the artwork of my friend João Galrão.  I LOVE his series entitled 'Moments in Pleasure'.  Click on his name to see more of his impressive work.

LARGE JET - Series, Moments of pleasure

Tchau,

Eddy

Eco-Friendly Upholstery

Olá!

Recently, I finished my first Interior Design course - MATERIALS.  I learned so much and you should see the back of my SUV - FULL OF SAMPLES!!!!

I have decided to share some of the things that I learned in my MATERIAL class.

Eco-Friendly Upholstery

One of the topics in my course was UPHOLSTERY.  One of my main goals of becoming an Interior Designer is to incorporate as many materials that are ECO-FRIENDLY/SUSTAINABLE in my designs.

The Upholstered Sofa I Designed for my course

I fell in love with upholstery from BRENTANO FABRICS. 

"At Brentano, we have developed green criteria for our fabrics that reflect the diverse and interconnected nature of sustainability. Our eco-fabrics include our high performance and high quality eco-friendly faux leathers, as well as beautiful upholstery patterns and contract textiles -- overall displaying an uncommon variety of design and versatility available in environmentally-conscious textiles. The Brentano Green fabric label demonstrates our commitment to pursuing green mindfulness while designing textiles with beauty + performance in mind.

In order to qualify for the Brentano Green label, our fabrics must comply with green standards in at least two of the following three categories: raw material, process, and facility and social responsibility."

Brentano Fabrics

Here is the Brentano Fabrics Sample Board I created for my class.

I fell in love with this pattern as soon as I saw it! 

I will be sharing more from my Materials Course soon!

- Eddy

Furniture Designers | Cisco Brothers

Ola,

I have decided to write about sustainable | eco-friendly furniture designers in my blog.

In today's blog, I would like to spot light John Derian's furniture line manufactured by the Cisco Brothers.

Cisco Brothers is an eco-friendly, family-run, California-based company. They use soy and petroleum-based foam, non-toxic glues and FSC certified domestic maple wood. 

Here are some of the pieces from the line that I liked:

TETE-A-TETE CHAIRS

The first item that caught my eye was the TETE-A-TETE CHAIRS.  They are a reproduction of a 19th century piece.  It would be a great to have a very good conversation in these. 

Thorntail Wingback Chair

This chair was inspired by an American piece dating back to 1870. The enormous proportions, indulging depth and large "wings" seem to envelop the sitter. I would love to sit in this chair with a good book and read for hours!!

Dromedary Loveseat

The Dromedary loveseat seems to be a timeless piece as far as style and period. I loved it because it just looks so comfortable.  Guests would love to sit on it for hours. For me, it would be another great place to curl up and read a good book (You can tell that I LOVE TO READ BOOKS!!!)

This line of furniture is very conservative and very different from my personal taste. Being that I am studying to become an Interior Designer, I feel it is very important to be knowledgable about different styles to help create pleasing designs for my clients.

To learn more about the Cisco Brothers, please go to the Cisco Brothers site.

Bien Hecho

Ola!!!

While surfing the internet this morning, I came across a very interesting site 
INHABITAT NYC.  INHABITAT NYC is a website devoted to green design, architecture and innovation in New York City.

On INHABIT NYC, I learned about BIEN HECHO.

BIEN HECHO is a woodworking studio founded by John Randall in 2006.  Bien Hecho bridges past and present with contemporary designs made with quality wood such as cedar and pine harvested from water towers and other sources. A devoted Brooklynite who genuinely cares about the environment, Randall delivers furniture that is bound to enhance any home or office.

BIEN HECHO means WELL DONE in Spanish. I would love to say BEM FEITO [Portuguese] to John Randall for his beautiful, handcrafted wood work made from RECLAIMED FURNITURE!!!!!

I am so ANXIOUS to see more of his work!!!

 

Australia’s First Flat-Pack Apartment Building

Ola!!!

In my last post entitled - FabCab | Spaces For Changing Needs, I talked about FabCab and how they design and sell Environmentally Friendly Pre-Fabricated Homes and Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs).

This week, I read an article on Australia's first Flat-Pack (Modular) Apartment Building on DESIGNBUILDSOURCE.COM.AU. 

Modular Apartment Building - Wayfarers

The two-story modular apartment building, dubbed the Wayfarers, will feature two, three and four-bedroom apartments and is expected to be completed in an amazing five weeks as opposed to the six months it would generally take to build such a project using traditional means.

In my post entitled - FabCab | Spaces For Changing Needs, I noted the differences between modular versus traditional building:

"Modular Homes are built to the same IRC building codes and State Building Codes that site built homes are. The difference is that all Modular Homes are built in a controlled environment and third party inspected at the factory before they are delivered to your site to make sure they comply with all local building codes. Site built homes are constructed out in the elements and only have the electrical system inspected unless you are in a code-enforced area. The contractor may say it is built to the IRC code but no one is inspecting the home to make sure it actually is. 

Modular homes are built with the efficiency and quality control only found using factory assembly line techniques. Each home travels through departments staffed with specialized workers who represent every building trade. Work is never delayed by weather, subcontractor no-shows or missing material. Materials are also protected from the weather instead of being piled outside. The average typical waste of building a 2,000 sq ft. home is in excess of 8,000 pounds. In Modular Home construction that waste can be recycled. 

Quality engineering and modular construction techniques significantly increase the energy efficiency of modular homes. After Hurricane Andrew, a FEMA study showed that system built (Modular Homes) construction stood up better than site built homes in the storm-ravaged Dade County. “Overall relatively minimal structural damage was noted in system-built homes. System-built construction provides an inherently rigid system that performed much better than conventional residential framing.” Along with quality control processes, inspectors and code compliance you are assured your new home will be every thing you dream it will be. "  - Anderson Homes, Inc. 

After writing about FabCab and their modular homes, I wondered why there aren't any modular apartments?  Be careful what you ask for!!!!

What are your opinions on modular building?

Do you think this will replace traditional building?

Let us know!!!!

FabCab | Spaces For Changing Needs

Ola!

This week I received a link to an awesome site that designs and sells Environmentally Friendly Pre-Fabricated Homes and Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) - FabCab.

FabCab’s highly skilled architecture and design team is  dedicated to environmental sustainability, universal design and gorgeous spaces.

FabCab’s approach to sustainability is simple; design healthy efficient environments to accommodate peoples’ varied lifestyles.

Here are the differences between Pre-Fabricated (also know as Modular) and Built (also known as Stick-Built) homes:

"Modular Homes are built to the same IRC building codes and State Building Codes that site built homes are. The difference is that all Modular Homes are built in a controlled environment and third party inspected at the factory before they are delivered to your site to make sure they comply with all local building codes. Site built homes are constructed out in the elements and only have the electrical system inspected unless you are in a code-enforced area. The contractor may say it is built to the IRC code but no one is inspecting the home to make sure it actually is. 

Modular homes are built with the efficiency and quality control only found using factory assembly line techniques. Each home travels through departments staffed with specialized workers who represent every building trade. Work is never delayed by weather, subcontractor no-shows or missing material. Materials are also protected from the weather instead of being piled outside. The average typical waste of building a 2,000 sq ft. home is in excess of 8,000 pounds. In Modular Home construction that waste can be recycled. 

Quality engineering and modular construction techniques significantly increase the energy efficiency of modular homes. After Hurricane Andrew, a FEMA study showed that system built (Modular Homes) construction stood up better than site built homes in the storm-ravaged Dade County. “Overall relatively minimal structural damage was noted in system-built homes. System-built construction provides an inherently rigid system that performed much better than conventional residential framing.” Along with quality control processes, inspectors and code compliance you are assured your new home will be every thing you dream it will be. "  - Anderson Homes, Inc. 

My Dream House

I am a true advocate dwellings which eco-friendly, sustainable and not  intrusive to the surrounding environment.  When I saw these designs, I SAW MY DREAM HOUSE. The size is PERFECT (more room means more to clean!!!) and my dream house would blend in beautifully with the environment.

What are your feelings about pre-fab/modular homes and 'built' homes?

Please share your thoughts and feelings!!!

Interior Design | The Kitchen 2013

Ola!!!

Recently, I received a link to a great article entitled: Interior Design: The Kitchen 2013 by  Jura Koncius - The Washington Post.

"The reign of the trophy kitchen is officially over. The dream kitchens of today aren't about the sexiest six-burner range or the most exotic countertop material. As cooking has returned to center stage and remodeling budgets have sobered, the kitchen island is nurturing family togetherness and reviving casual entertaining."

A Solis Betancourt & Sherrill kitchen in Virginia with mahogany cabinets that were bleached and cerused
to a driftwood gray color. (Marcos Galvany.)

The 2013 member survey by the National Kitchen & Bath Association identified a menu of some of today's top style choices in kitchens:

1. WHITE PAINTED CABINETS
2. QUARTZ COUNTERS
3. MANY SHADES OF GRAY
4. LED LIGHTING
5. ELECTRONIC FAUCETS
6. SATIN NICKEL FINISHES
7. GLASS BACKSPLASHES

When I saw the image above of the kitchen done by Solis Betancourt & Sherrill, I immediately felt that I would love to have friends in the kitchen with me while I prepared a meal.  I have often noticed when I attend a party, it always ends up in the kitchen. I feel it is  because of its size and it is the place of great childhood memories.  Everyone always gravitates to that room in every one's home.

Do you feel that the latest trend in kitchen remodeling/design food takes center place and is now a place of nurturing? 

Share with us what you think!

Sustainable Expectations: An Interior Perspective

Ola!!!

As you all know, I am a serious advocate of SUSTAINABILITY in Interior Design.

Recently, I have been reading in various publications that sustainability is a trend and not very important to consumers here in the United States.  It made me sad to read this, but it has given me even more impetus to always include sustainability in my design projects.  Living here in Hawai'i, where we are always so close to nature, one realizes that we are all connected to everything here on this planet.  

This week, I came across an article entitled: Sustainable Expectations: An Interior Perspective, by  Angela Fedele, Interior Design Source.

In the article, it discusses Sustainability in Australia:

“The ‘trend’ face of sustainability at its most accessible is up-cycling because the concept of reuse is becoming more and more important to consumers whose focus has shifted from brand new and replaceable pieces to one off or hand made pieces,” Palmer explains.  

Darren Palmer, Designer. Image Courtesy The Interiors Addict

Green Interior Design is basis of my work and, while writing this blog entry, it brings to mind  my favorite quote and life mantra which is so dear to my heart:

"You must be the change you want to see in the world.” 

                                                                    - Mahatma Ghandi

Do you feel that sustainability is a passing trend?

What is the view of sustainability in your country?

Please share!!!

A Great Reused Item | End Grain Flooring

Ola!!!

In my earlier post entitled -  A Great Example of a Loving Restoration, I mentioned that I received a great comment from Kristi Nelson at KM NELSON DESIGN on my blog entry entitled RENOVATE AND BE KIND TO THE EARTH.  She suggested using costly pieces such as wood floors, doors, window, etc. from homes that are being renovated or demolished.  Reusing these kinds of items are so great for the environment and the pocketbook!!!!

Last week, I found a great example of reused wood paired with brick to create a beautiful floor on HOUZZ.COM.

Here is the photo:

Contemporary Wood Flooring by Smithville Specialty Contractors Elmwood Reclaimed Timber Inc.

Have you found any great items that can be reused in a design or remodeling project?

Please share!!!!

- Eddy

Necessity is the Mother of INVENTION

Aloha!!!!

I live in a 1 bedroom in-law cottage here in Honolulu with my partner and our 1 1/2 year old Jack Russell, Keona.  I love our little house and I am finally ready to decorate.  I have decided on minimalistic approach due to the fact that our house is so small and too many things will make it feel even smaller.

I was reading the article below on HOUZZ.COM and realized that I made the right decision!!!

Houzz Tour: Airplane Efficiency for a Minimalist Hong Kong Flat

Houzz- Kitchen Remodel, Bathroom Remodel and More »

Browse Outdoor Products on Houzz- For Example:

Gardening Tools · Greenhouses · Grills · Hammocks · Bird Feeders · Doormats · Mailboxes · Retainer Walls ·

I will definitely let you know how my design project is going here in my litte house!

What would be your ideas for designing a small space?

Let us know!!!!

A Great Example of a Loving Restoration

Aloha,

I received a great comment from Kristi Nelson at KM NELSON DESIGN on my blog entitled RENOVATE AND BE KIND TO THE EARTH.  She suggested using costly pieces such as wood floors, doors, window, etc. from homes that are being renovated or demolished.  Reusing these kinds of items are so great for the environment and the pocketbook!!!!

Kristi has inspired me to look further into remodeling first when working on a project, if at all possible.  I came across a great example of a Home Restoration that looks so chic and modern on my favorite interior design source, HOUZZ.COM.

My Houzz: 1950s Rebound for a Cliff May House

Houzz- Kitchen Remodel, Bathroom Remodel and More »

Browse Home Office Products on Houzz- For Example:

Bulletin Board · Cable Management · Desk Accessories · Desks · Filing Cabinets And Carts · Task Chairs ·

Have you thought about reusing items in your design projects?

Please share your comments!!

Renovate And Be Kind To The Earth

Aloha,

In my previous blog entitled, SUSTAINABILITY IN INTERIOR DESIGN, I talked about my goal of incorporating sustainability in my projects.  Recently,  I came across an article that made me SIT UP AND PAY ATTENTION!!!

The article on HOUZZ.COM was entitled -  'Contractor Tips: 10 Ways to Remodel Greener.' 

The first tip was my AH-HA MOMENT:

1. Start with an existing house. Obviously you can go out of your way to break this rule, but when you remodel, you are reusing an existing structure. Both building and remodeling are wasteful processes. But by remodeling, you are creating less waste, using less energy and putting your money into more labor than materials, which helps support your local economy. A side benefit of not building new: Existing buildings are more likely to be close to established infrastructure, trees and cool old neighbors with lots of stories.

Here is the article from HOUZZ below:

Contractor Tips: 10 Ways to Remodel Greener

Houzz- Kitchen Remodel, Bathroom Remodel and More »

Browse Window Treatments on Houzz- For Example:

Cellular Shades · Curtain Poles · Curtains · Roller Blinds · Roman Blinds · Venetian Blinds · Vertical Blinds · Window Blinds ·

What do you think of remodeling instead of building from scratch?

Do you think that remodeling is a good way to reduce the amount of waste produced in construction?

Please share your comments!!!

The Front Porch

Aloha,

As you probably have guessed, HOUZZ.COM is one of my favorite sites!!!!!

I came across an article on FRONT PORCHES and here is the first paragraph:

"The front porch has evolved along with the quickening pace of everyday life. Porches were originally designed to create a more tolerable living space — a place for rest, relaxation and cooling breezes. Their decline can be attributed to many things: air conditioning, cars, radios, televisions, backyard decks. But despite modern conveniences, we can still revive the front porch, restoring and enjoying its quaint beauty."   

- 7 Ideas to Get You Back on the Front Porch, written by Alex Jewett

 I have always loved front porches.  When I would visit my avo (Grandma in Portuguese), we would sit on her front porch and wave hello to the passing cars as they would TOOT TOOT as they passed her house!! Being that she lived in small town, everyone knew everyone else and would always say hello to one another....

Here is the article from HOUZZ.COM:
 

7 Ideas to Get You Back on the Front Porch

With the quick pace of everyday life, the front porch was always the place to rest and unwind after a hectic day.  Sitting outside in the fresh air with a cool drink in my hand is all that I needed to wash away the day.  On the weekends, there is nothing like sitting on your front porch reading a good book and from time to time, watching the world pass by.

My dream house has a wrap around porch and I plan to use it to rest and recharge,a place to play with my doggie daughter - KEONA and have memorable 'AL FRESCO' dinners with close friends.

Do you have a memories of being on the front porch of your home, parents' home, grandparents' home??? To me, those kinds of memories are PRICELESS and always put a HUGE SMILE ON MY FACE!!!

Let us hear about your memories or tell us about the front porch you have now.