Why it's Great // Union Studio

Traditional Exterior by Providence Architects & Building Designers Union Studio, Architecture & Community Design

On another "Why it's Great", we're looking at this community design of 13 homes by Union Studio in Boston. This design illustrates what is great about thoughtful planning and design. 

1. Back yard-front yards
   Bringing people to their front yards facilities a connection with others. As opposed to driving a car into a garage and not coming out until the person leaves again via car. 
2. Parking Court
   Each home has a designated garage bay and parking space in a parking court. They were each provided with a cart for groceries and such. 
3. Net Zero Possible
   Solar collection and other systems make it possible for these homes to have all their energy needs met. 
4. Permeable Area
   Instead of houses facing each other with concrete sidewalks and driveways, this space utilizes permeable ground which keeps air cooler and helps with surface water management. 

We certainly need more communities like this. 

Cavin Costello - Episode 004

Cavin and his wife Claire from The Ranch Mine are doing powerful work in the Phoenix area bringing the beauty back to ranch homes that most see as less desirable, as well as using infill lots to give a neighborhood more value and vitality. The information and concepts in this episode apply to every city in the United States and throughout the interview I just kept thinking “Yes! We need to hear this!” I hope that you enjoy! 

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Show Notes: 

0:47 Background on Cavin and The Ranch Mine
3:38 An “aha moment” for Cavin
4:32 What is an infill lot?
5:05 Benefits of an infill lot. Over 40% of the land within Phoenix is vacant.
6:26 adding another chapter in history for a neighborhood
7:50 Subtracting from a space to bring it back into it’s original integrity
9:40 Using indoor-outdoor living to bring
12:00 An interesting and challenging project turned into something beautiful
15:42 Mentioned inspirations: Midcentury Modern, Wendell Burnette Phoenix AZ, Tom Kundig Seattle WA

Thanks to Fialta for the music heard on this episode!

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Link House in Pierson Place Historic District

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The Bennie G House in Cave Creek

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Schreibner House - mid-century home with 600 sq ft addition

Tomorrow on the Podcast!

Tomorrow on The Honest Home Podcast I'm interviewing Cavin Costello from The Ranch Mine. We talked about his part in the revitalization of neighborhoods in Phoenix Arizona. It's joing to be a great one, look for it tomorrow here on the blog or on iTunes!

Why It's Great // Emerick Architects

Industrial Kitchen by Portland Architects & Building Designers Emerick Architects

I was perusing Houzz earlier this week like any good design addict does while wasting a little time and came across this photo from Emerick Architects in Portland Oregon. It immediately made me stop and stare for so many reasons. I'd like to point them out to you in my very first installment of "Why It's Great". 

1. Daylighting.
   I'm certain the lights are on in this picture for photography purposes. I guarantee the homeowners don't turn on the lights in this room from sun up to sun down. Added bonus, those windows are beautiful. Using repetition and pattern these windows make artwork unnecessary.
2. Simplicity
   It has loads of beauty because they didn't over-design it.
3. Big, but not too big. 
   It's a spacious kitchen, but it isn't overloaded with a crazy amount of cabinets. 
4. Materials. 
   The stainless steel countertops look sleek and clean, yet accessible and durable. 
5. Ductwork in a conditioned space.
   I did a post about this a few months ago. By using ductwork in this way, you can save 15-20% on your electricity bills and also get a smaller HVAC system upon installation.