Dressed In Green: Sustainable Singapore
Many of us are going Green, however the cost of some Green Design products are out of our price reach. Apparently, lots of “green” in Singapore can get you an entire Green house on an island! This sustainable house in Sentosa, Singapore was designed by Guz Architects.
Each roofline and terrace is composed of a Green Roof System. Not only is this design breathtaking, each level or terrace is designed to create the feeling of living on a single storey home that provides views of the gardens and ocean.
The organic shapes utilized in this design compliment the natural beauty of the gardens, such as the curvilinear roof line and staircases.
The contemporary structure of this house is mainly composed of sleek lines that are softened by the foliage and water features.
The glass lined pool rests in the backyard facing the ocean, and provides an underwater experience on dry land.
To see all of the green-licious photos, check out FreshHome: Interior Design & Architecture.
3 CommentsLawn Gone! Mary Elizabeth’s Backyard Retreat (as seen on HGTV!)
Forget the national TV coverage, the lights, cameras and action. Even if HGTV had never shown up in Mary Elizabeth Hulsey’s backyard, that space would still be a superstar—a sophisticated, in-the-city retreat that’s always ready for its close-up.
Of course, HGTV did show up at Mary Elizabeth’s house recently, to feature her bodacious backyard on a fun episode of “Bang For Your Buck” (see the clip below!). And the HGTV crew came on the heels of a few magazines and publications that have also dropped by to capture Mary Elizabeth’s slice of the good life. This backyard is well-designed, clever, hip and inspiring. No wonder these media outlets can’t deny the space’s star quality.
So just what makes this backyard front page news? Here are the headlines.
- Matters of size:
This yard is of realistic proportions, just 20’x120’. It’d be one thing to create an at-home getaway on multiple acres out in the country. Mary Elizabeth managed to create a unique getaway in a normal-sized yard, at her house in the heart of the city. With judiciously sized feature areas—pool, outdoor room (with media capabilities, of course) and green space, this yard reveals how any of us could make the best use of whatever space we have at hand.
- Modern Materials:
Mary Elizabeth’s choices prove that materials do matter. She didn’t skimp on the things that really make an impact on the beauty of the yard. From designer porcelain tile as flooring for the outdoor room area to the gorgeous tile lining the saltwater pool, each space exudes superior design and fine quality. Of course, all the choices had to work well in their outdoor settings and fit into a real budget. Where some selected materials took a bigger bite from the budget, others were more cost-effective. This backyard proves that the art of great design lies in knowing what to prioritize.
The Fun of Functionality:
Though this yard has that star quality that seems to beckon the cameras, in the end it’s a truly inviting, useful space. Mary Elizabeth struck that sometimes elusive balance of fine design; the yard is both beautiful and functional. The whimsical swings, the no-worry upholstered touches, the easy levels of the lap pool…everything is there to be used and enjoyed. Nothing is merely for show. And really, that’s a key to modern design: creating spaces that are useful and beautiful, photographable and enjoyable.
Whether Mary Elizabeth is hosting friends, family or just hanging out with her adorable dog Lucy, this backyard is always at the heart of the gathering. For adults, kids and even dogs, this retreat can’t be beat as a natural extension of the home, a place to splash, chat or just relax.
Resource guide:
Pool – Black Slate Mosaic, deck; Marble Rain Mosaic, waterline
Cabana (outdoor room) – Rex- Horn Dark Porcelain Tile
Bang for Your Buck:
Mary Elizabeth’s Outdoor Renovation featured on HGTV
Outdoor Living
Why stay inside when you can extend your living space to the outdoors. It isn’t difficult to create an outdoor living space. Whether it is covered or open, a traditional wooden deck is no longer your only option. There are a variety of tiles, stones, and slates that can make your outdoor space unique and beautiful.
If your looking for the best tile for an outdoor space be sure to choose one that has a good non-slip surface when wet. A multi color slate is really a beautiful option for such a space. It brings loads of color to a patio and can enhance any area. Slate is also available in black, but it could get pretty hot in direct sunlight, so this may work better in a covered area. Also, a relatively new product is called urban timber. This product has the look of wood and comes in a few colors. It weathers better than wood, but still “looks” wooden for those of us that like tradition. Granite is also an option when selcting outdoor flooring. It also comes in different colors and sizes to create a different look. Finally a product called Mutina Dechirer is a very urban look that can be used around a pool or for patio space.
These products are all available at Mission Stone and Tile. Your new space is just a phone call away!
Leave a commentLet's go Morocco!
The architecture in Morocco is breathtaking. Inspired by the Islamic design style, Moroccan buildings usually feature outstanding archways and beautifully intricate domes. Another feature that stands out to me about Moroccan architecture is the interesting way in which moroccan mosaic tile is used. Bright contrasting colors and many unique shapes are usually prevalent and sometimes used in unexpected places.
This pool is calling my name…
Leave a commentWays To Choose the Best Floor Material For your Residence
The travertine tile utilized very often by interior designers and home developers alike when they want to achieve subtle yet solid tones in both their interior and exterior designs. This floor covering meets the requirements for durability and decorative value that developers normally look for in a stone tile . Homeowners who are trying to update their house and improvements must do extensive research by consulting with distributors, floor cover installers, homeowners who have tried using this material and other reliable sources. By doing this, you will have the ability to make an informed choice for your floor cover. Knowing what the best option is in your home upgrade and improvement project is paramount to achieving the best results for your home.
Here are some of the imperative aspects you must consider when planning to use this material as the floor cover in your home:
1. Seriously assess the area where you are going to use the floor cover material. Consider what regularly occurs in the room . Look at moisture levels and the foot traffic in the area as well as other conditions that will indicate the level of durability and performance that is needed from the floor cover material that should be used.
2. As soon as you are able to consider issues affecting the location, assess the kind of finish that is required for the specific home upgrade or improvement. This will guide you in determining the type of finish that you choose to have on your floor area. For instance, you may seriously consider using brushed or tumbled floor cover material to address the issue of slip resistance that you might want for in areas that will experience a lot of foot traffic.
3. Make certain that you use the appropriate type of sealer for your floor cover job. There is little benefit in choosing the best type of floor cover material if you fail to consider the right sealer for the job. In this particular case, it may be much better for you to consult the experts so that you are able to make an accurate and informed choice.
4. You need to understand that there will be some degree of disparity in the color variances of this particular type of floor cover material. This is mainly because this type of material is still a pure natural product with distinct variations in the amount of mineral deposits that are within in each of the material that you will use in your floor covering job. This is always the case; notwithstanding the intense decision process that is observed in order to establish consistent color variations in the floor cover materials.
5. Make sure that you understand the details and terms of the warranty before you start changing the floor cover material. Check for minute cracks and breaks in every one of the floor cover materials. If you think it would be best to document it, you may consider taking pictures. Make sure that you resolve shipping issues and problems with your supplier as quickly as possible to avoid any complications.
When you choose to use this type of cover material for your floors, you are actually reliving an old architectural tradition that dates back thousands of years and you can think of this as your link to the same tradition that is expected to last for another thousand years!
Filed under Bathroom Decorating by DecorPlus
Deck the house! Give your home a holiday uplift
The holidays are time to forego necessities and go for niceties. As you figure out what to give the “people who have everything” in your life, why not make a wish list for the house that has everything too? Think “aesthetic” and “cosmetic,” because generous home improvements can prove to be prudent investments.
Here’re a few suggestions (presented with a holiday twist!), sure to bring lasting enjoyment for your home.
Ornaments: Invest in Original Artwork
A home without art is like a Christmas tree without ornaments. If you’re ready to transform a wall or ditch those framed movie posters from college, make the foray into art acquisition. Whether you baby-step with a limited edition print or leap into a major purchase, aspire to acquire art you truly adore. Of course, everyone hopes to find the first brushstrokes of a budding Rembrandt. Yet if you seek out something you really love, you’ll make a good, livable choice that will be a present each time you pass by it on your wall.
“Pete” mixed media by Sheri O’Neal – www.inspirationavenue.com
Even if gifting your home with a single piece, think of it as the first in a collection based on a favorite artist, style or subject matter. Then as you continue to deck the walls, you’ll build upon a theme and make a better investment. Of course, dabble in a little art education before diving in. Whether you’re spending $200 or $2,000, you want to be sure about your selection. Peruse galleries around town—and out of town, search the ‘Net. As you save up for something special to ornament your life, don’t forget the cost of framing.
Lights: Brighten Up with Landscape Lighting
The holiday season is often made merrier with ample doses of outdoor lights. With that thought as inspiration, consider an investment in a landscape lighting system to enjoy beautiful exterior lighting year round. A landscape lighting system is vastly different than those solar-powered stake light kits available at big box retailers. Those kit lights serve only as demarcation along pathways and don’t offer ambient glow. A well designed, professionally installed landscape lighting system will artfully accent your home and garden, substantially spiking post-sunset curb appeal and upping the ante in terms of security.
www.outdoorlightingperspectives.com
Professional lighting specialists focus on creating overall effects rather than just spotlighting objects, and they use far better fixtures and technology to achieve an array of desired looks and capabilities. The investment may range from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand, but the quality, value and beauty give great returns.
Room in the Inn: Upgrade the Guest Room
At this time of year, there’s a commonly-told story about inadequate lodging that left a certain high profile guest in less than “stable” conditions. Don’t let your guest quarters fall into that category; invest in upgrades to ensure visitors feel at home during their stay.
Whether you have a designated guest suite or must morph kids’ space for the occasion, spend the night and get ready there yourself so you can identify needed improvements. Pay attention to details. Does the hand-me-down mattress need awakening with a down-filled pad or egg crate covering? Is there an alarm clock, a full length mirror, adequate lighting, a chair to sit in? Is there a tabletop for laying down jewelry, a place to hang clothes or open a suitcase? Can guests easily access an outlet for cellphone chargers? Is there a trash basket and a box of kleenex? Investing in these details will benefit you by alleviating worry anytime you play overnight hostess.
Stocking Stuffers: Add Comfort & Joy with Small Indulgences
Like finding your favorite chocolates in the toe of a stocking, certain decor updates are delectable surprises that bring joy for the moment. New accent pillows for sofa or bed, fingertips towels in the powder room, a centerpiece for the dining table, even a fire pit for the backyard—little touches have transformative powers to give your home fun and function.
Think tile backsplashes for the kitchen or snazzy stone surrounds for the fireplace. Add special touches to the places and spaces where friends and family gather in your home, and celebrate the season together…beautifully!
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