Insulation Matters
Have you ever wondered what exactly is sandwiched in-between your walls so that the interior of your home stays cozy and is protected from the chilly or hot outdoor temperatures? With current concerns about global warming many people are turning to sustainable solutions in architecture. One approach to decreasing environmental impacts is selecting insulation with lower embodied energy – the sum of all the energy necessary to produce a product and transport it to its desired location. Many people wonder what actions they can take to decrease their carbon footprint. Well, selecting the type of insulation is one way a homeowner can make a significant difference. Conventional insulation including expanded polystyrene or extruded polystyrene applied with hydrofluorocarbon blowing agents are made from fossil fuels that release green house gases with high global warming potential. Selecting insulation that releases less nasty green house gases during production and installation is better for the environment and the health of the people involved in installation. Materials like cellulose – or plant fiber, mineral wool, denim, hemp fiber, straw bale, and mushroom insulation are sustainable alternatives. Cellulose – or plant fiber, is made of post-consumer recycled paper and offers great sound insulation. It is a fitting option for remodels or additions since installation is quite simple. Mineral wool – is made from melted stone or iron spun into fibers, much of which comes from pre-consumer recycled material. Products can come in the form of rigid sheathing used slab-on-grade construction. Denim – is made of recycled cotton from pre-consumer waste scraps or post-consumer jeans. Straw bale – is just that, straw bales, a product that doesn’t keep you guessing. It is made of renewable material that is easily available. Mushroom – or more specifically mycelium, grows on agricultural crop waste. The fungus does not actually produce fruit, so no mushrooms will be growing in your house. It is a cutting edge solution for low-embodied energy insulation, and is currently still in the research and development phase. Fiberglass – is made of spun glass fibers. It is resistant to moisture and bacteria, and is easy to install. Hemp fiber – is a great natural insulator that is biodegradable. They maintain their structure and are resistant to slumping over time. Written by Carmen Ulrich
Making a great first impression
The entryway sets the tone for your house’s design, mood, and guest experience. This space should reflect your style and personality while creating a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you have a grand foyer or a small apartment nook, these key design elements will help make the most of your entryway. The Front Door The front door can often be overlooked, but it is the first point of contact for your guests. If you are a home-owner choose a bold paint color to create an eye-catching focal point in the exterior and interior. Current color trends: Lime Green, Charcoal Gray, Classic Red. Not a fan of bold colors? Unique door hardware is a great way to make a tangible first impression as guests enter your home. If you rent and aren’t allowed to alter your door, an entry mat with a bold pattern or texture will set your unit apart from all the rest. Clean & Clutter Free! Proper storage in your entry will help you make an organized first impression. A large entry is perfect for built-in storage: closets, cubbies, or even a separate mud-room to keep the dirt out of your home. Small spaces can achieve the same effect using a hall tree, wall-hooks, or a small console to drop your keys/mail as you come and go. Current trends: DIY pallet with hooks, refurbished and bold colored consoles. Décor Choose a focus piece in your entryway and keep the other elements simple and complimentary. Large spaces lend way to choosing a chandelier or pendant as the focal point for a classic design approach. Other options are a grand staircase, furniture, or area rug. Some creative ideas for smaller spaces are shelves with personal framed photos, a ladder to hang coats/purses/scarves on, or even a unique wall mirror (which will help your space seem larger). Current trends include: inspirational quotes (on canvas or wall decals), floor mirrors, and bold wall colors and patterns. Whether you’re designing on a budget or doing a complete overhaul, have fun with your entryway design and choose elements that will help reflect your personality and keep you organized! By: Lisa Kramer, H2D Architecture + Design