commercial new
“Effervescence” at Center City Green This large-scale mural project was a private commission by Spectrum Properties for its Center City Green 12-story parking deck/mixed use project in Charlotte, NC, with a one-year timeline. After several meetings, discussions, extensive research and a trip to the site, local artist Jeannette Brossart — designer and fabricator for the project — discovered ORGANIKS, a 100% recycled glass tile available in a variety of colors and finishes (including glow-in-the-dark) manufactured from reclaimed car windshields — perfect for a parking deck!
Company: Mother Nature Mosaics Project Location: Charlotte, NC Project Team members: Mosaic Designer/Fabricator: Jeannette Brossart Property Developer/Commissioning Entity: Spectrum Properties General Contractor: BE&K Architect: LS3P
Green products used: • Mosaic — 100% recycled car windshield glass tile by ORGANIKS, and recycled bottle glass tile (average 85% recycled) • Recycled content in the concrete and steel • Low VOC paint • Highly efficient HVAC and eco-friendly lighting • Construction was LEED focused, especially with waste management considerations, as well as including showers and bike storage for encouraging environmentally-friendly commuting
Certifications: Registered for Silver LEED Status
PROJECT: Green
Keeping with a green theme, the abstract bursting circles design was inspired by the natural dispersal of plant spores, which reflected the natural energy, liveliness and vitality of the city of Charlotte. This design also maximized the use of the total art space — over 1,800 total sq. ft. on three sides of the building and four adjacent pedestrian bridge column supports — with the floating circles emanating from the two central focal walls. This design would not only complement the helix ramp architecture of the deck and vegetation walls, but truly show the commitment to making a functional, beautiful, environmentally-conscious structure. Approximately 250,000 loose 1” glass tiles were ordered, mostly ORGANIKS and a few colors of recycled bottle glass tile (approximately 80% recycled), and were hand-cut with a nipper tool. Brossart fabricated each circle section by section in her home studio. After 600 hours of careful nipping, adhering, labeling and boxing each section, she delivered the mural to the site. Adhering the tiles took approximately one week. Grouting and the background stucco took slightly longer due to weather concerns. The entire building project was completed in October 2009 and is registered for Silver LEED status. The structure has green features that include recycled content in the concrete and steel, low VOC paint, bicycle storage and showers for environmentally friendly commuting, highly efficient HVAC and eco-friendly lighting. The retail shell spaces were also designed to adhere to LEED standards, and construction overall was heavily LEED-focused, with waste management considerations in particular.
commercial new
Whole Foods Market Whole Foods Market in Dedham, MA, is more than just a beautiful grocery store. The 63,000 sq. ft. project is also constructed to strict environmental standards, earning Green Globes certification as well as GreenChill certification from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Whole Foods is known as an impassioned leader in environmental issues. The Dedham store includes countless green initiatives, including a fuel cell and solar panel system that generates nearly 100% of the power needed to run the store, and a system that uses rejected heat from the refrigeration system to heat water.
Company: Trikeenan Tileworks Project Location: Dedham, MA Project Team members: Executive Coordinator of Construction: Robert Donnelly, Whole Foods Market, Inc. Executive Coordinator of Design & Décor: John Doherty, Whole Foods Market, Inc. Design Architect (WFM Consultant): Craig Grund, BottinoGrund Architects Architect: Eric Brown, Prellwitz/Chilinski Assoc., Inc. (PCA) Tile Manufacturer/Designer: Kristin Powers, Trikeenan Tileworks Tile Installer: Simeone Floors, Inc.
Green products used: • Trikeenan wall tiles are 100% VOC emission-free and made within 500 miles of the Whole Foods building site. Trikeenan manufactures product lines with recycled content of 50% to 85% depending on the collection; they carry a long product life cycle and low carbon footprint. “Seconds” tiles were used in both bathrooms, floor to ceiling, sparing them from entering a landfill, equaling post-industrial waste content • 400-kw fuel cell from UTC Power — the store generates nearly 90% of its power needs and all of its hot water needs onsite; waste exhaust is captured for cooling and heating • 80-kw rooftop solar installation made up of 460 panels installed; projected to produce approximately 100,000 kw hours during the first year • Utilizing secondary fluids in the store’s refrigeration system, potential ozone-depleting gases are minimized; rejected heat is reclaimed and used to heat water, reducing consumption of natural gas and charge of refrigerants by 75% • Added windows, 16 skylights allow more natural light, reducing electricity consumption • Zoned lighting, motion-sensitive or time controlled with sun sensors • Toilet partitions made from recycled milk jugs • Check stands made with Marmoleum, readily renewable material supplied by plants/trees • Walls painted with Benjamin Moore’s VOC-free Natura paints • Water-saving devices used in bathrooms and prep areas • White roofing membrane helps reflect sunlight, reducing cooling requirements • Décor boards made from Lumicor’s R4 certified recycled resin • 75% of construction waste diverted from landfills
Certifications: Green Building Initiative’s (GBI) Green Globes® Certification The Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) GreenChill Certification
PROJECT: Green
Tile from Trikeenan Tileworks was used for over 5,000 sq. ft. of wall surfacing in the store, including the seafood, meat, bakery, deli and cheese departments, as well as restrooms and food prep areas. Easy to clean and durable, tile is an ideal surface where food is both displayed and served. It also has a nearly limitless lifespan. Trikeenan’s tile was a clear choice for Whole Foods: in addition to a huge palette and accessible price points, Whole Foods appreciated Trikeenan’s VOC-free glazes; their reclamation and recycling of water, clay, cardboard and glaze waste; and product lines with both post-industrial and post-consumer waste. Also important was the ability to source the tile locally: Trikeenan is one of the only tile manufacturers in the Northeast, and sourcing materials that are manufactured regionally is a big part of green building. “It was important to us that we stayed local and not ship the tile from across the country,” said John Doherty, executive coordinator of design for Whole Foods. “Historically, Whole Foods has had great success working with hand-glazed tile, but most of it came from far away. To find someone local was great.” The Whole Foods design team worked directly with owner Kristin Powers to select a palette of products that reflected the design goals of the project. Whole Foods used a 3x6 subway pattern throughout the store, but varied the glaze colors according to department. Throughout the space, tile abuts stone, wood or other natural surfaces, where its organic quality complements both the adjacent architecture and the foods on display. “In general, we wanted to keep with the same aesthetic [as other Whole Foods projects],” explained Doherty. “Trikeenan had a lot of really rich colors.” Whole Foods specified the organic Burl Brown for meats and the vibrant blues and greens of Outer Galaxy in seafood. Tile from Trikeenan’s Modulus collection is used in bakery, deli and cheese areas. “People have responded really well to the aesthetic of this tile,” said Doherty. For restrooms, Whole Foods opted to use “seconds” from Trikeenan’s Modulus collection. “These bathrooms are very green,” said Doherty. “Low flow toilets, waterless urinals and so on. So to use seconds tile fit right into the design intention…I think this is a really good story for both Whole Foods and the environment — a very successful use of seconds tile. It’s a very upscale look, and we also kept some stuff out of the landfill.”
commercial new
New Regenerative Medicine Centre “Stefano Ferrari” The Centre for Regenerative Medicine (CReM) is a cutting-edge international project producing adult stem cells for human tissue transplant that opened in Modena, Italy, in 2008. The scope of this innovative project makes it the first of its kind in Europe, requiring a completely sterile environment for 50 researchers. The building has quickly become a distinctive landmark in the urban landscape, sending out a powerful signal of the city’s commitment to research and sustainable design practices.
Company: ZPZ Partners Project Location: Modena, Italy Project Team members: Client: Università degli Studi di Modena e Reggio Emilia, Fondazione Cassa di Risparmio di Modena Architectural Project Managers: Mattia Parmiggiani, Michele Zini, Claudia Zoboli, Romina Zucchi, Sara Callioni, ZPZ Partners General Coordination: Gioia Bertocchi Contractor: CDC Modena
Green products used: • Casalgrande Padana Unicolore series — several colors — matte finish with Bios treatment • Laminam® Plate, 3 mm thick, with fiberglass reinforcement — snow white color
Certifications: Four LEED Credits for Innovation in Design
PROJECT: Green
The exterior of the lower level is entirely covered in large-scale ceramic tiles from Laminam, a member of the Green Building Council (GBC) Italia. Measuring 3 mm in thickness (with a fiberglass support to resist movement) and 2.7 meters high, the varying widths follow the curved pattern with a varied-sequence pattern. The material was chosen for its durability, aesthetics, light-weight form and performance over time, as well as the matte-white “powder” effect that it produces. The slabs do not release any substance into the environment and can be easily milled and recycled in other manufacturing processes. Super thin, this new generation of porcelain tile requires less energy to transport and produce and is ideal for covering existing materials in retrofit environments. The CReM building has three floors, each one with an area of over 1,000 m2. The need for the labs to be certified according to the GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) regulations prompted the use of high-performance porcelain stoneware. Casalgrande Padana’s Bios line, developed with the Department of Microbiology of the University of Modena, is a porcelain tile with an additive of mineral particles that generate an extremely effective antibacterial effect, able to kill 99.9% of the four main categories of bacteria. The bactericidal effect remains unaltered over time and does not need light in order to be activated. In damp environments, its beneficial properties are strengthened. Produced in Casalgrande Padana’s energy-efficient factory, its use in this facility will cut down on the usage of harsh cleansers over the life of the building. This series, like all of the porcelain stoneware that comes out of Casalgrande Padana, is produced in a closed cycle process that allows all components to be recycled with emissions and dispersions almost at zero. The entire production process and all supporting processes are carefully monitored to ensure that they meet the highest environmental standards. Proof is found in the certifications, which include ISO 14001 and EMAS (a regulation used to monitor and improve a company’s environmental performance, a voluntary device of exceptional effectiveness and social value). Known for their innovative facilities and structures in Italy and abroad, ZPZ Partners saw the advantages of using tile in a project where health and hygiene are a necessity. Its extensive use throughout the project is a testament to its high-performance characteristics and long lifespan. Tile is extremely durable, highly resistant to the elements, requires little to no maintenance and does not off-gas. Additional green design considerations for this project were focused on energy usage, since CReM requires a huge amount of energy and sought to limit heat dissipation. All of the HVAC equipment is placed on the roof and at the base of the building. Air is taken from the environment and via perforations in the façade and set over the roof by way of the half-moon shapes of the roof arches with varying radii (to avoid visible smokestacks). The air conditioning system of every laboratory has air-treatment facilities. The overall technological dimension necessitated the installation of energy-saving devices, in particular, batteries for heat recovery of the air-treatment units, high-efficiency condensation water heaters, and refrigerator groups with devices for the recovery of dissipated heat.
commercial Remodel
USGBC Headquarters StonePeak Ceramics 12”x24” Limestone Gray porcelain tile was chosen for the lobby and reception area of the new U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) headquarters. The new headquarters, located in Washington, DC, is designed to meet the new LEED-CI rating system and achieve the Platinum score. It is the first project to obtain certification under the latest version of the LEED green building rating system.
Company: StonePeak Ceramics Project Location: Washington, DC Project Team members:
The USGBC outgrew its previous office space as a result of exponential growth over the past few years. Today, more than 35,000 projects are participating in the LEED system, comprising over 5.6 billion sq. ft. of construction space in all 50 states and 91 countries. The expansion of the USGBC headquarters is reflective of the green building industry, which is projected to grow to $60 billion by 2010. StonePeak Ceramics is proud to have been chosen to participate in such a prestigious project, which is paving the way for the future of green building.
Client: United States Green Building Council (USGBC) Architect: Envision Design
Green products used: • StonePeak Ceramics floor tile (limestone tiles extracted and manufactured locally) • Timeless Timbers wood (500-year-old gumwood salvaged from the bottom of the TN river) • Substrate — Flakeboard Company (manufactured locally, the substrate for a variety of finishes contains post- and pre-consumer recycled content) and UniBoard (locally produced particle board, has no added urea formaldehyde) • Formica laminate (GREENGUARD certified) • Furnishings — Haworth (GREENGUARD certified and contain pre- and post-consumer recycled content) and Herman Miller (contain pre- and post-consumer recycled content) • Lees Modular/Mohawk carpet (manufactured locally, achieves CRI Green Label Plus rating) • EcoSurfaces rubber flooring (completely extracted and manufactured locally and uses 26% rapidly renewable rubber) • Mega Media Concepts panels (recycled content film) • National Gypsum wallboard (GREENGUARD certified and contain pre- and post-consumer recycled content) • Marshfield doors (contain 70% FSC-certified wood and 54% pre-consumer recycled content) • Modernfold partition walls (post- and pre-consumer recycled content) • Armstrong ceiling systems (locally manufactured and SupraFine grid also features integral DC power distribution to reduce lighting energy)
Certifications: LEED Rating: Platinum (LEED-CI, v3)
PROJECT: Green
Photos courtesy of Eric Laignel
Green Kitchen Rollingwood Kitchen Remodel If a project should be featured as green, it should be more than just a sum of its green parts. This Rollingwood, TX, project considered the existing conditions to be a priority, as well as maximizing space as an energy-efficient solution.
Company: Harris Welker Architects Project Location: Rollingwood, TX Project Team members: Architect/Design-Build: Susan Welker, AIA, Harris Welker Architects
Green products used: • Reutilization of existing space, no additional square footage added to kitchen area due to large oak trees outside kitchen breakfast window • Existing kitchen oak cabinets were deconstructed by Habitat for Humanity and resold/ reinstalled at another location; Cardell cabinets fabricated locally in San Antonio, TX • Energy Star Kitchenaid appliances • Vetrazzo recycled glass countertops • T5 energy efficient cove lighting and LED undercounter lights • Grohe Faucet and Kohler cast iron sink • Sherwin WIlliams Harmony No-VOC paint • Marazzi 13”x13” glazed porcelain floor tile • Back-painted glass at cooking area backsplash; recycled glass “pool” tile at wet area backsplash • Waste management program
PROJECT: Green
The existing kitchen/breakfast area had many of the common features found in a 1979 home that would showcase how simply and cost effectively a remodel could be redone. Some of these 1979 elements were old 7’ cabinetry with soffits (or fur downs as they are commonly called in Texas) above, 8’ popcorn ceilings and “egg crate” ceiling tiles with glaring fluorescents. Poor arrangement of appliances, a lack of a kitchen window and center island, the presence of a desk/bookshelf and insufficient storage round out the list of this room’s poor features. The solution for this project, in 244 sq. ft., was to lift the cabinets to full height, not only to draw the eye up, but to add more cabinet storage. Also, a cove-lit ceiling, raised 12” due to the existing HVAC directly above, expanded the kitchen height without costly reconstruction to the remainder of the kitchen ceiling. The appliances were redesigned; a built-in refrigerator was installed in the previous desk/book shelf area; and the sink area was opened up to improve the space. Functionally, the kitchen is now efficient. Aesthetically, it showcases modern features and glamour with the iridescent “wet pool wall.” This sustainable kitchen project went from “the kitchen next door” to one worthy of being featured in a magazine.
Residential new
Tempe Urban Living Tempe Urban Living is a 15-unit urban infill project located in the university town of Tempe, AZ. The project is located within the urban core to take advantage of urban amenities, bus and light train routes, and within walking distance of the university. Each dwelling consists of three levels, interconnected by an open stairwell that acts as a light shaft, drawing light from a large skylight at the top, deep into the inner space. Semi-enclosed roof top terraces expand the liveable space year-round.
Company: Baldinger Architectural Studio, Inc. Project Location: Tempe, AZ Project Team members: Architect: Baldinger Architectural Studio, Inc. Developer: New Deal LLC Builder: Urban Edge Builders
Green products used: • Urban infill site in close proximity to bus and train routes, within walking distance of Arizona State University and the Tempe Performing Arts Center • Low-water desert landscaping • Bicycle parking • Energy efficient design with solar sun control • Cement board rain screen exterior wall cladding • High-performance mechanical system • Optional solar hot water system • Low-emitting paints, sealants and carpets • Extensive Italian porcelain tile surfacing
PROJECT: Green
The dwellings are open-plan, uncomplicated and feature solar shading, cement board rain screen exterior wall cladding, energy-efficient mechanical systems, enhanced daylighting, low-flow plumbing fixtures, provisions for owner-installed solar water heaters, low-emitting paints, sealants and carpets, as well as extensive Italian porcelain tile surfacing. A simple palate of forms and building materials was employed. Sand-blasted masonry was exposed both at the exterior and interior of the project to contrast with the brightly colored exterior “rain screen” cement board cladding and the smooth surfaces of the interior. Minimalist detailing complemented both the exterior architecture and the interiors.
Residential new
Natural Dream Home In 2008, Stone Concepts was asked to team up with a local project that was trying to obtain LEED Certification. The Natural Dream Home is an example of how the tile and stone industry’s commitment to green contributed to one of Colorado’s most beautiful LEED Certified green homes built to date.
Company: Stone Concepts of Colorado Project Location: Edwards, CO Project Team members: Project Team Members: Margie Hamrick, David Huffman Design Team: Kari Foster, Maggie Tandysh, Jill Bosshart, Natalie Lynch & Rachael Morton, Associates III Interior Design Architect: Peter MacDonald, Peter Stafford MacDonald & Company Builder & Developer: Margie Hamrick, Ecoexistence Tile and Stone Team: Mike Hamrick, Teague Carlson, Carlos Ordonez, Stone Concepts
Green products used: SOLID SURFACES AND COVERINGS “We’ve made it our mission to continually seek out environmentally friendly, cutting-edge materials,” Mike Hamrick, Stone Concepts of Colorado ARIZONA TILE providing natural stone from around the world. Simply beautiful, durable and timeless, natural stone requires little maintenance ICESTONE® ECO-XTM by MELD TILE STYLE Diversity of tiles — ceramic, glass, concrete and porcelain — beautiful and unique. From long-lasting, recyclable concrete-tile, to recycled content tiles with nontoxic glazes, all made by companies with sustainable manufacturing practices: • Ann Sacks — Fleishman • Smith-Laredo • Malaga Cove Collection, Profile glass by • Oceanside Glasstile • Stone and Pewter Accents Oceanside • Encore Ceramics • Lunada Bay • Iron Gate • Royal Mosa • Sandhill • Syzygy Tileworks • Sonoma Tile Makers Nontoxic grouts, adhesives and sealers used to keep everything securely in place: • C-Cure — non-toxic, non-dusting and does not contain iron • PL — Adhesive • Stone Tech Sealer — Stone Sealer #6 Other Green Solutions — Recycled glass content, VOC free
Certifications: LEED® Silver Certified Built Green® Colorado Certified
ECO-Green Build Certified ENERGY STAR Qualified Home
PROJECT: Green
Stone Concepts worked closely with the builder and the interior design team to create one of Colorado’s first LEED Certified homes of its size. The Natural Dream Home became a living classroom that was used to illustrate the opportunities and benefits of an earth-friendly, energy-efficient home. The home served as a showcase to demonstrate life in a green, eco-friendly way through the use of eco-friendly, energy-efficient products and environmental options. More importantly, the Natural Dream Home served as an educational tool that is sharing resources and solutions to educate builders, architects, designers, educators and their students. The materials used for this project show off the best the industry has to offer. From recycled glass and composite countertops to natural stone, each material has a green story to tell. While looking for green solutions, the project team realized that it had been working with a majority of them from the start. The enduring life cycles of natural stones — such as granite, limestone, marble and travertine — made them great green solutions. Stone can stand up to weathering and time better than any other building material. It requires less energy to initially fabricate and install than other products and is 100% recyclable. The team learned about quarries and companies who have green practices. Quarry-reclamation projects — which turn completely excavated quarries into recreation areas and state parks — allow these quarries to minimize their long-term impact on the environment. From brand-new materials to granite, this home has a great combination of beautiful and green solutions. The tile and stone installed in this project not only made a statement, but, more importantly, it made a difference. The materials used contributed to the overall LEED points needed to get certification. Stone Concepts realized that the rating system established to define green building not only transformed the company, but the entire tile and stone industry toward more eco-friendly practices. This process has served as a much-needed tool for the company to reestablish itself in the marketplace. “This process of going green has been an extraordinary opportunity for us to make a dramatic positive impact on our planet,” said Mike Hamrick from Stone Concepts.
Green bath Girl’s Bath The objective of this project — a 20,000 sq. ft. estate in Demarest, NJ — was to be creative and innovative with the tile and stone materials that are available today. The client was very fashion conscious and wanted her new residence to reflect her personal style. The use of color was also very critical in the design aspect of this project. The client liked bright colors, which was important when designing the spaces for this home. Anna Marie Fanelli of Floor & Decor served as the tile and stone designer for this extensive project and supplied all of the tile and stone for this amazing residence.
Company: Floor & Decor Project Location: Demarest, NJ Project Team members: Architect: James Paragano Contractor: Steve Mufson, S&B Construction Tile/Stone Designer: Anna Marie Fanelli, Floor & Decor Interior Designer: Faith Hochman, F.H. Designs, Inc.
Green products used: • Jelly Bean Glass Flooring from Fireclay — recycled bottles tumbled to a pebble-like format to create a glass pebble flooring • Custom glass created by Mixed-Up Mosaics — uses local glass and glass containing recycled content
When designing the girl’s bath, Fanelli was inspired to have one of the interior walls of the bath look like artwork on the wall, which is also how the color scheme evolved. The custom glass used was a combination of different hues of orange and white. The jagged wall of glass extends to the other side of an interior wall to truly look like artwork. The custom glass from Mixed-Up Mosaics has recycled content and the artists used recycled water in their location. These artists are environmentally conscientious as the glass used is from local sources and any unused glass is utilized for other projects. This custom glass was creatively used in the shower walls and on the tray of the ceiling to create an exciting tile design. The client loved the creative aspect of the tile design and the different mediums that were utilized to create the design. It is very tactile in feeling. The flooring is Jelly Bean Glass from Fireclay, which is a green product made from recycled glass bottles. Instead of ending up in a landfill, the glass bottles that made up this innovative tile flooring are now showcased as a beautiful pebble-like floor. This flooring was used in the main area of the girl’s bath as well as the shower floor. A 4”x12” white Italian tile from Cerasarda, Sugheri Collection, Ghiaccio was used for the interior walls and the shower walls, in combination with the custom glass mosaics. This unique Italian tile looks like a handcast tile and has a stylish glaze which adds to the beauty of the tile design. The client was thrilled that green materials were used while at the same time looking stylish with the textures and colors.
PROJECT: Green
Residential new
The Evergreen This is the first LEED Gold certified home in Central Florida. The home designer created a plan that worked around the mature trees on the property, used large windows and overhangs to allow all-day indirect natural light (reducing the need for artificial lighting), and supported the homeowners’ other green requirements while providing a modern, yet warm, architectural design. The interior designer contributed to the project by selecting low VOC paints, stains, carpets and fabrics, recycled-content tile and locally manufactured furniture. The landscape architect designed a drought-tolerant landscape with zoned, drip irrigation system, as well as a 300-gallon rainwater storage system.
Company: Phil Kean Designs, Inc. Project Location: Winter Park, FL Project Team members: Residential Designer and Builder: Phil Kean, Phil Kean Designs, Inc. Interior Designer: Rob Turner, CRT Studio, Inc. Landscape Architect: Denise Smith, Evergreen Consulting Quartz Panel Distributor: Jim Doane, Jimbos Creative Masonry
Green products used: • Stone walls are pre-consumer recycled quartz panels from RealStone Systems • Driveway pavers cut from salvaged terrazzo flooring • Sherwin-Williams Duration Home low VOC paint • Gammapar bamboo flooring • Stained concrete floors • Shaw Green Label Carpet and Triple Touch Green Carpet Pad • Locally manufactured custom veneer cabinets using low formaldehyde plywood and water-based stains • Alternate Energy Technologies solar water heating panels from AllSolar • NCFI Sealite Polyurethane Spray Foam insulation — organic based • 95% recycled-content drywall • Hurd, Low-E, double pane, aluminum-clad wood windows • Versico reflective roof membrane (minimal heat gain, recycled-content and Energy Starlabeled) • Carrier high-efficiency heat pump with 16.3 SEER • Fresh-air intake; Infinity air purifier with a 15 MERV air filter; dehumidifier • Dal-Tile ceramic and glass recycled-content tile • Compact fluorescent lighting (CFLs) in 95% of lights • Danze, Grohe & Hans Grohe high-efficiency plumbing fixtures • Toto dual-flush toilets • Thermador Energy Star appliances • Bosch Axxis high-efficiency washer and dryer • Drought-tolerant turf grass: Zoysia Grass • EcoSmart fireplace
Certifications: LEED-Gold FGBC Energy Star and met the U.S. Department of Energy’s Builders Challenge
PROJECT: Green
The stem wall was used to raise the grade for sustainability. The tight building envelope was created using a bio-based foam insulation, an unvented attic and proper weather stripping. The concrete for the slab used fly ash which increases durability and is a power plant by-product. The slab was raised 1¾” higher than the stem wall to prevent water intrusion. Concrete blocks salvaged from previous projects were used along with filled-block construction. Low-E windows were used to reduce interior heat. A reflective and recycled-content roof membrane was used. The home has a high-efficiency heat pump with a 16.3 SEER. The HVAC unit is centrally located to maximize operational efficiency and is sized appropriately at 4 tons (approximately 750 SF/ton). A midpoint smoke test was done, as well as performance testing of the ductwork. The HERS score is 61. The home has fresh-air intake, a dehumidifier and an air purifier with a 15 MERV air filter. It also has a solar water heater and insulated hot water lines. The home boasts using salvaged terrazzo flooring from a demolished home as driveway pavers; construction waste being sorted and recycled; pre-consumer recycled quartz and recycled-content tile; bamboo and stained concrete flooring; CFL bulbs in 95% of lights; water shut-off leak detection system; 95% recycled-content drywall; boracare for termite control; additional waterproofing; recycle bin and compost area; high-efficiency plumbing fixtures, including dual-flush toilets; granite remnants used as vanity countertops; Energy Star appliances; high-efficiency washer and dryer; induction cook top; durable Zodiaq kitchen countertop; partial green roof with edible garden; water feature using rain water source; and a sectional lighting control system. Indoor/outdoor living is available off the great room and master bedroom using retractable screens that are incorporated into the lanai. The retractable screens not only protect these living areas from insects, but from solar glare and heat as well. There is also a rooftop terrace for additional outdoor living space that features solar LEDs and a solar fountain.
Green bath The Evergreen Bath This is the first LEED Gold certified home in Central Florida and chosen as the 2009 Orlando Bathroom of the Year. The bathroom was designed to be water- and energy-efficient, durable and to use products locally made or of recycled materials. Water efficiency was achieved by using a dual-flush toilet, water-conserving and high-efficiency plumbing fixtures, and using only one shower head. Energy efficiency was designed by using a solar water heater and insulated hot water lines, an Energy Star lighting package, compact fluorescent lighting (CFLs) and a sectional lighting control system.
Company: Phil Kean Designs, Inc. Project Location: Winter Park, FL Project Team members: Residential Designer and Builder: Phil Kean, Phil Kean Designs, Inc. Interior Designer: Rob Turner, CRT Studio, Inc.
Green products used: • Dal-Tile ceramic recycled-content tile • Danze, Grohe & Hans Grohe water-conserving and high-efficiency plumbing fixtures • Toto dual-flush toilets • Granite-remnant vanity countertops • Locally manufactured custom veneer cabinets by Frank Bennett of Longwood • Low-formaldehyde plywood • Low-VOC stains and finishes • Sherwin-Williams Duration Home low-VOC paint • Stained concrete floors • Alternate Energy Technologies solar water heating panels from AllSolar • NCFI Sealite Polyurethane Spray Foam insulation — organic based • Concrete blocks salvaged from previous projects • Exterior wall concrete block cells filled with concrete • Concrete made of fly ash, a power plant by-product that increases durability • 100% recycled-content drywall • Boracare for termite control • Hurd, Low-E, double pane, aluminum-clad wood windows • Versico reflective roof membrane (minimal heat gain, recycled-content and Energy Starlabeled) • Carrier high-efficiency heat pump with 16.3 SEER and sized appropriately at 4 tons (approximately 750 sf/ton) • Fresh-air intake • Infinity air purifier with a 15 MERV air filter • Quiet and timed bath exhaust fans • Dehumidifier • Energy Star lighting package • Compact fluorescent lighting (CFLs) • Lutron sectional lighting control system
PROJECT: Green
Concrete blocks salvaged from previous projects were used along with filled-block construction on the exterior wall. A bio-based foam insulation was used as well as 100% recycled-content drywall. Low-E windows were used to reduce interior heat. Stained concrete floors were used for durability and ease of maintenance. The interior designer contributed to the project by selecting low-VOC paints and stains, Dal-Tile recycled-content tile and granite remnants as vanity countertops. The vanity cabinets were locally manufactured by Frank Bennett of Longwood and use low-formaldehyde plywood. Having the cabinets produced locally reduces the energy used to transport finished products long distances. The home also boasts fresh-air intake, a dehumidifier and an air purifier with a 15 MERV air filter.
Residential remodel
Kalil Master Bathroom This master bathroom renovation features a porcelain floor tile chosen not only for its beauty, but for all of its green qualities. The particular Italian tile used is so stunning that it is the focal point of the room. Its finish is polished so that it reflects light, and the pattern creates interest and makes a dramatic statement. This porcelain tile is also easy to maintain. It only requires warm water to clean, thereby eliminating the need for chemical-laden cleaning products which would, ultimately, end up in our ecosystem. Tile is a hygienic product which does not absorb odors and does not release volatile organic compounds, prior to, during or after installation — great for indoor air quality.
Company: Sandra Kalil Interior Design Project Location: Surrey, British Columbia, Canada
The tile used is manufactured from natural materials and will break down organically at the end of its life cycle (approximately 50 years). It is also resistant to extreme weather conditions such as fire, water, moisture, UV rays and temperature changes.
Project Team members:
Italian Ceramic Tile manufacturers are organized in industrial districts and are directly involved in the responsible management of their territory. They have control of the environmental and social impact of their manufacturing operations (air, water, waste, corporate social responsibility, etc.) and of the local trade of their products. The glass tiles for the shower walls — which are also recyclable and easy to maintain — were manufactured in Canada.
Interior Designer/Project Manager: Sandra Kalil, Sandra Kalil Interior Design
Green products used: • Porcelain floor tile 23.5”x23.5” • Glass wall tile 12”x22”
This bathroom has two windows and one skylight. On sunny days, the tile is heated naturally as it absorbs heat from the sun and releases it over time, helping keep down heating costs. Along with the windows, the tiles’ polished finish reflects so much natural sunlight during the day that lighting is not required until sunset, therefore lowering overall electricity costs. One final green feature of this renovation was that high-quality sinks, faucets and bathtub were selected so they would increase the overall life cycle of this master bathroom.
PROJECT: Green
Residential remodel
Shogun Entry This project proved to be an interesting challenge: a slapped-together 1960’s plywood house in the wetlands of Monterey County, CA, was to be remodeled into an inviting Japanese-flavored sanctuary, while staying within the footprint of the original structure. With the limitations of size and shape, the focus for this project became the entryway to the residence as the statement of the new owner’s philosophy of living in harmony with nature. Texture and color of natural materials would be the tools of transformation from eyesore to graceful habitat. With the attitude of respect for the environment, choosing materials from within a 50-mile radius, whenever possible, and employing local craftspeople became key ingredients.
Company: Susan Wagner Designs, LLC Project Location: Castroville, CA Project Team members: Designer/Builder: Susan Wagner, Susan Wagner Designs, LLC Architectural Consultant: Michael O’Hearn Tile Fabricator: Susan Wagner Designs, LLC
Green products used: • ÊTRE TILE, concrete tile made with 25% eco-friendly substitute for cement, a vitreous calcium called VCAS POZZOLAN • Non-hazardous sealer by Innovative Concrete Technologies • Recycled and re-surfaced redwood • Tile, glass art, river rock from within 50 miles of project site
Certifications: The 2008 Award for New Product Design given to ÊTRE TILE by California Home & Design Magazine (March 2008 issue) ÊTRE TILE included in The San Francisco Museum of Craft and Design’s exhibit: New West Coast Design: 2008
A concept was developed juxtaposing five natural elements: fire, water, stone, wood and metal. Fire, symbolized by glass, became panels for window and doors, with imagery engraved by a local glass artist. A pattern of mortar randomly inlaid with small black stones meandering between naturally edged slate flooring represented the flow of water. The low wall of river rock capped by a wainscot of recycled redwood became the foundation for the element of metal — a wall of 10”x30” tiles with the appearance of hammered bronze. The tiles were a large contributor to the green aspect of the project. They were 100% concrete, made with a green formula developed at Susan Wagner Designs, LLC, in Santa Cruz, CA, 25 miles from the project site. After working as an artist for over 30 years, Susan Wagner cast her first large-scale bronze sculpture on this project. The cost of bronze necessitated finding an alternative material for future artworks — one cheaper and preferably made by Wagner herself. The sculptural possibilities of concrete seemed promising and Wagner attempted to manipulate the concrete to look like hand-worked metal. Dissatisfied with results from staining and painting with metallic coatings, she then invested in a vibrating table and hand-held mixer to begin intensive experimentation. Months of making molds and adjusting ingredients and procedures ensued. When success finally came, more than 25% of carbon-producing cement had been replaced with an eco-friendly industrial by-product: VCAS™. A non-hazardous lithium sealer was substituted for toxic chemical sealers. All coloring happened within the molds, and after a period of curing at room temperature, the concrete, now in tile form, was ready for use. The tiles looked and felt like hand-worked metal and had incorporated the latest environmentally friendly concrete technology. Wagner created a series of designs for tiles, naming them ÊTRE TILE. A tile design especially created for this project, named “Shogun,” is matched in the glass panels.“Shogun Entry” is a blend of the natural and the man-made in a dialogue that supports sustainability.
PROJECT: Green