Green at Heart: Dutch Designer Christien Meindertsma

Irwin Weiner ASID - I love the take on design presented in today's featured video. Dutch designer Christien Meindertsma espouses "documentary design," meaning she covers the entire lifecycle of the products she designs and produces, straight to the source. Examples of her work include the popular Urchin Pouf (top photo), Oak Inside console (bottom photo), individual wool sweaters made from a single sheep that you get to know a lot about or a range of flax products from a nearby Dutch flax field.

As the LEED certification requirements for green building and design change in the coming year, everyone will become (hopefully) more aware of where their home goods and building materials came from, how they were manufactured, and what processes were used to the original elements every step of the way, from origin to your doorstep. The goal is to see consumers and homeowners making more informed, conscious decisions that are environmentally conscious and respectful. <thunderous applause>

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Hillside House Solves Eco and Sloping Lot Challenges

 

Irwin Weiner ASID - I admire new home design that solves multiple problems. The Hillside House designed by architect and homeowner Scott Lee solves the problem of siting a house on a small lot on an impossibly steep slope. It uses energy-efficient systems throughout - from solar-heated hot water to a home systems control panel that automates light controls and motorized/concealed window shades. Innovative Kohler fixtures reduce water usage in this California home to a bare minimum. Finally, most of the building materials are locally sourced or locally recycled. This home earned its LEED-certified Platinum home status without sacrificing beautiful contemporary design. Watch the following video from Kohler to learn more and tour Hillside House.

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