Friday, May 23, 2014

Go Green - Energy Efficient Home Checklist

Going green is all the rage right now, and for many good reasons. From transportation to business practices to products in our stores, more and more people and companies are shuffling off the old way of doing things in favor of more environmentally sound methods.


But, sustainable practices aren’t just good for the environment; they’re also extremely valuable when it comes to redecorating and powering your home. The National Association of Home Builders has been a huge advocate of green remodeling tactics. They’ve even created a guide to putting together “all-encompassing approach that emphasizes making a home healthy, comfortable, and efficient.”


The list of strategies for green living is long and detailed, and can get expensive in construction, but we’ve compiled a good introductory list of things to consider if you’re planning a home remodel - and have the color green in mind.

ENERGY AUDIT


A home energy audit, sometimes called a home energy assessment, is a great first step before you remodel in order to understand what you’re already working with. The audit, performed by a professional energy auditor, will gauge how much energy your home consumes. The results will point to ideas for making your home more energy efficient during your remodel - replacing old windows, insulation, light bulbs, furnaces, etc. Greater efficiency = greater monthly savings.


BUILDING MATERIALS


When it comes to the nuts and bolts of remodeling, the folks at the renown television program advise that you ask this question; how green do you want to be? “If your goal is simply an energy-efficient house, you can focus on Energy Star appliances, on-demand water heaters, high-efficiency insulation and windows, and solar technology,” they suggest. If you’re thinking green with regard to raw materials for walls, floors and more, you can also look into reclaimed lumber and recycled building materials. Habitat for Humanity is a great resource; their ReStore outlets offer a revolving range of reclaimed building materials.


APPLIANCE RATINGS


As previously mentioned, new, energy-efficient appliances aren’t only a smart way to go, but they’re dropping in price as more and more models and companies enter the green market. From washing machines to dishwashers to low-flow toilets, the options are endless. Not sure which models in the showroom are rated as Energy Star, or offer the best bang for your buck? Check this guide for the complete inventory.


“PASSIVE SOLAR”


Are you familiar with the term “passive solar?” If you’re planning a green remodel, you should be. This doesn’t refer to the installation of pricy solar panels; let’s face it, not all of us are able to plunk down that kind of cash. Instead, the US Department of Energy describes this strategy as one that “ takes advantage of a building’s site, climate, and materials to minimize energy use.” In passive solar designs, windows, walls, and floors are built with materials that are natural allies in your area for trapping and storing energy, without the use of mechanical or electrical assistance. Yeah, it sounds complicated, but when done properly, the initial cost can be extremely affordable. And, thanks to the wonders of the internet, there are a lot of resources to study up on.


RAIN GARDENS


Moving beyond simply greening-up your living space, consider an overhaul to your surroundings. One easy and popular way to do this is with a rain garden. Rain gardens are ace when it comes to trapping runoff, keeping more of it in the ground and less on your sidewalks or driveway. Plus, all that extra moisture acts as nature’s sprinkler system, cutting back on the amount of water needed to hydrate your lawn during summer months. There are great resources available all over the web, with step by step guides for creating your very own rain garden.


This is obviously a simple guide to kick-start the going green thought process. Are you contemplating an eco-friendly home remodel? Have you already done one? Any tips? Leave us a comment and let us know!

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8 Awesome Pinterest Examples of Radiant Orchid

There’s nothing demure about Pantone Color’s 2014’s “Color of the Year.” The muted blues, greys and silvers of years past have now been replaced by the appropriately-named “Radiant Orchid.”


This aggressively named and hued purple, often with jewel-red undertones, is already making appearances in celebrity spring fashion and the runway, receiving rave reviews along the way.


Now, it goes without saying that this vibrant color isn’t for everyone...BUT, if you’re interested in exploring how stylish Pinterest users are getting on board with this year’s color, we’ve put together eight images we think capture the essence of Radiant Orchid quite nicely.




Matching walls, curtains and upholstery mix to create a strong statement for this sitting room. (Courtesy of Pantone Color)




A rustic take on 2014 is made with orchid stain and an ornate rug. (Designtricks.net)




This elegant decor showcases the versatility of Radiant Orchid, as well as some natural color and fixture companions. (Thanks to blog.homeandstone.com)




This guest bedroom pops with spring color and soft accent pieces in complimentary colors. (Thanks to spacecasedesign.com)




This one...is a bit of a project and commitment. It’s also, in this blogger’s opinion, really awesome. For the more adventurous home decorator, it’s a thought. (Pin from ameblo.jp)




A little paint creates this soft, romantic take on Radiant Orchid for a guest bathroom. (Found via Carolyn Pollack Jewelry)




This bedroom is a nice example of how even a color this bold has a goodly amount of complimentary companions. Accent pieces and splashes of Radiant Orchid might be just the ticket for a whimsical childrens’ room. (Pin from Baby Deco)




And finally, the minimalist approach with simple, clean, white companions. (Gleaned from Google+)


Alright, now that we’ve shown you a few ideas, would you ever consider redoing any room in your home with Radiant Orchid? Too much? Leave us a comment and let us know!

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