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Eco-friendly Pools

New swim technology is tapping into the environment’s existing methods for filtration and sustainability, creating eco-friendly pools so beautiful you’d swear mother nature built them herself. By Jenna Birch

Americans are conditioned to think of swimming pools as man-made water dwellings, complete with blue-tinged tiles and chlorine. In Europe, however, that idea has been evolving steadily over the past couple of decades to include pools that look more like extensions of natural surroundings, adapting existing terrestrial methodology for filtration and sustainability. Simply put: Natural swimming pools (NSPs) are eco-friendly, intuitive aquatic innovations. On top of that, they’re finally traveling across the pond and into backyards in the United States.

“It’s new technology, which is why people are skeptical. It’s really the difference between sterile water and natural water,” says Alan Weene, from BioNova Natural Swimming Pools, a global network leading the charge in designing and streamlining NSPs. “Naturally existing bacteria is not necessarily something we should be killing, though. Mother Nature already knows how to purify water. Natural swimming pools are like hybrid vehicles used to be. When people started to understand them, they caught on. We expect the same thing to happen.”

A pool built by BioNova Natural Swimming Pools at a residence on Nantucket

That understanding of NSPs will come with time, and more exposure to the technology in the U.S. Now that BioNova is working on North America’s first public natural swimming pool, to debut at Minneapolis’s Webber Park in spring 2014, don’t be shocked if NSPs catch on in eco culture. What makes them so great? The constructed pools are ecologically harmonious, enhancing nature’s design for swimming instead of developing completely new techniques, which often work against it.

All purification of NSP water is biological, meaning it’s entirely chemical-free—no chlorine, no bromine, no synthetic additions whatsoever. Here’s how the pools work instead: The water is divided into zones with specific plants in each, helping clean and maintain the pool with an optimal cocktail of microorganisms. The plants dwell in gravel, water is pumped through each of the zones, and the tiny life forms become permanent fixtures that are continually cleaning the water. Unlike a traditional swimming pool, filtration plays off the environment, involving biological elements like special grasses and reeds planted at one end of a pool. As with a regular pool, you clean surface water by hand with skimming devices.

Weene says that if you can get used to the natural look and feel of the pool, there are enormous benefits. “It’s chemical-free, so it’s healthier and safer,” he explains. “It helps restore habitats, and it’s a lot like caring for a terrestrial garden.”

That comparison means you’re likely familiar with all the NSP’s upkeep. If you’re looking to become a pool owner but don’t like the thought of maintaining a traditional pool season after season, NSPs might be your best bet. Once the pool is installed, as long as you care for the plants and use basic sediment-removal practices, the chemical-free setup is a gift. Additionally, smaller pumps use less energy, reducing the carbon footprint. And eliminating chemicals also means maintenance costs are nonexistent, whereas traditional chlorinated pools can cost hundreds or thousands of dollars per season to maintain.

“The theory of a natural pool is very appealing,” says green-clean expert Leslie Reichert, author of The Joy of Green Cleaning. “They are easier and cheaper to maintain since you don’t use any chemicals. The only real maintenance is vacuuming the sediment. They do not need to be emptied or covered in the winter, and there’s just an initial break-in time where the filtering process would remove algae and let the natural filtration take place.” After that [two-week] delay before each season, you’re free to swim.

However, the downside is you may have to get used to a different kind of swim. While natural swimming pools are pretty to look at, as they often seamlessly meld into the environment, the water isn’t the crystal-clear kind you’d find in a sterilized pool. According to Weene, NSP waters tend to be “moody.” That’s the nature of biology, so to speak. “They’re not going to look the same everyday,” Weene says. “But you will be able to see to the bottom, so that’s still okay. There’s all-natural water in there, and the appearance is telling you that something is out of whack.” Not necessarily wrong, but off—and when you notice changes, nature should make the necessary adjustments to self-correct the issue and stabilize. Cloudy water might signal excess algae growth, for instance, and the aquatic plants serve to perform necessary functions, like nutrient extraction.

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Weene insists the pools are “always safe and healthy to swim in” while the habitat returns to an even keel. However, you may have to ride out those inevitable bumps in the road. “No two pools are exactly the same,” he says. And that can be a positive. The pools are not just different in water behavior, but in look as well, so each design is unique. With NSPs, you can dream up a roadmap for any layout, depending on how exactly you’d like to use the pool and how much space you have.

Take it from Chris Rawlings, founder of Water House Pools. A graduate of the Rhode Island School of Design, Rawlings creates natural swimming pools centered around stonework. He constructs ecological wonders in the Northeast, ranging from small to large. Sometimes it’s a plunge pool for one or two people to utilize at a time; other times it’s a super-sized pool for extra functionality, like the one he created for a community-supported agriculture farm in Massachusetts that doubles as a water-retention pond. Every project is different, so prices and specifications fall everywhere across the board.

“It’s really site specific,” Rawlings says. “All my pools have had a specific set of requirements from the owners. We try to make them as energy efficient and maintenance efficient as possible, but other than that, it’s their pool. I try to include the client as much as I can in the design process, so they have a sense of ownership.” Rawlings’s designs, in particular, focus on stones, to further accentuate the natural allure of NSPs. “There’s such an energy that stones give to a constructed landscape,” he says. “It’s a real sense of timelessness, like the design has been there forever.”

So what’s not to love about natural swimming pools? “They’re not for everyone,” Rawlings admits, although he thinks they will make sense for a lot of would-be pool owners in these more eco-friendly times.

Three Key Benefits of NSPs

Alan Weene of BioNova highlights these NSP advantages:

1. They’re chemical-free With the natural purification, your family won’t be exposed to chemicals like they would with a traditional chlorinated pool.

2. Less energy Lower flow rates and a lack of chemicals contribute to less energy use, helping to reduce the pool’s carbon footprint.

3. Lower maintenance You don’t need to rely on chemicals to maintain and purify water, so taking care of the NSP is more like taking care of a garden–trim and groom plants, and get rid of debris and sediment.

Landscape Architect Jeffrey Gordon Smith

Landscape architect Jeffrey Gordon Smith sees beyond the bloom straight to his clients’ hearts, minds, and wide-lens landscapes. by Kiley Jacques

Jeffery Gordon Smith, Landscape Architect

Pulling inspiration from the landscape

Jeffrey Gordon Smith spends a good deal of his time analyzing everything from the exact color of sand to the dimensions of his dinner plate. As a man driven by the pursuit of aesthetic perfection, this constant state of scrutiny is beneficial to his chosen profession. Carefully considered representations of big-picture ideas and supporting details are imperative for a designer’s success. “It’s like looking through many different lenses,” says Smith, “…like zooming in and stepping way back and going wide.” It is this telescopic approach that enables the landscape architect to cull from a site its inherent nature and unique appeal.

With offices in California’s Baywood Park, Smith is well versed in coastal architecture and conditions. His residential, commercial, and institutional projects all illustrate what he calls “informative landscape designs,” which result from the thorough exploration of a property and its geographic location. Smith values three-dimensional interpretations of sites, which allow him to understand both the existing and possible connections between place, architecture, and client. “Seventy percent of design is on paper,” he says, adding, “30 percent is in the field. There is such insight in being on site.” For Smith, this close-up investigation of a landscape, its established structures, and a client’s own story all play essential roles in his design process, as he works to wed all three in such a way as to blur their lines, thereby weaving together the physical and the psychological, the visible and the private. He describes his Jewel Box Design project as one such example; drawing ideas from a client’s recent loss of a spouse and her penchant for sea glass, Smith turned a tight, unused corridor between her garage and home that had previously collected trashcans, ladders, and the like into an element-rich, restorative space.

Exploring clients’ homes and hearing their ideas help Smith gain a sense of who they are, which provides information that can be used to flesh out a design concept. “I try to open up a dialogue,” says Smith, “to get into their thinking [and] understand how they view the landscape.” People, he has learned, have strong associations with their surroundings and interpret the environment through a very subjective lens—their personal sense of place. Smith sees clients attempting to impose on landscapes an appreciation for other regions, though no relationship exists between those places and the properties on which they live. He cites the example of a client native to Sweden who envisioned the grasses of his homeland thriving in his serpentine, rock-riddled soils. “It’s human nature to want what you can’t have,” he says. “That’s the bane of all gardeners.” His work includes helping clients be more connected to their present environments and to value their regions’ unique characteristics; people, he feels, need to understand where they are, what they have, and how to use it. This idea, sometimes termed “regionalism,” entails developing a cohesive design that melds with a site’s wider context, and it is part and parcel of Smith’s success. “I am very passionate about what I do, and I think that passion comes through,” he says. “Clients start picking up my enthusiasm for the particular specialness of their place and [they] start to understand that they need to work with it.”

Smith is a valuable designer; to each new project he brings with him an arsenal of information about plants that cannot be gleaned from books. “You start picking up these notes and carrying them along the way,” he says. “That’s why, I think, they call it ‘practice.’” These “notes” are compiled from years of planning, installing, and revisiting landscapes, both after installation and many years later. “You have to step back and be critical of your [designs],” Smith says. “If clients are going to hire me, they are going to hire me for the life of the garden.” It is this vested interest in his landscapes, combined with his sensitivity to site and client, that lead his ideas to successful fruition time and again. The gardens he orchestrates are thoughtful, well planned, and inspired. More importantly, they belong—to both client and place.

Jeffrey Gordon Smith, Landscape Architect

Muted tones borrowed from the surrounding seascape

While still a student at California Polytechnic State University, Smith became fascinated with the concept of genius loci, or “the spirit of a place.” The idea took root and bloomed into the central theory now behind his work. “People try to re-interpret nature and replicate it,” he says, “but [we] can’t compete…if you try, you are just planting seeds and staging it, but nature will eventually take over.” Instead, Smith says, “I try to abstract it as a painting,” which may be an approach influenced, in part, by his admiration for the work of British artist Andy Goldsworthy. Part sculptor, photographer, and environmentalist, Goldsworthy produces site-specific “land art” in natural and urban settings that Smith describes as “poetry.” “[Goldsworthy] synthesizes something out of the landscape [that’s] so simple, so articulate. I’m painting with different materials…I like to step back and ask, ‘What feels native, or what feels of the place?’” By doing so, he says, his palette widens to include a much larger group of plants and possibilities.

In addition to ideas mined from his clients’ lives, the pre-existing site conditions, and other artists’ works, narratives often drive Smith’s designs. A commission for his alma mater’s engineering department plaza, for example, was a $1 million project based on Fibonacci’s mathematical algorithm—the consequence of which is the infinite spiral. “I don’t like to get too artsy on people,” says Smith, “[or] to go too far out there, but I think sometimes you have to go out there to sympathize with the bigger idea and make a connection to that place.” For this project, Fibonacci’s “story” steered the entire design, right down to plant choices. It was Smith’s intent that current engineering, botany, and horticulture students study the plaza from their different academic perspectives, and that generations of students’ stories emerge from use of the space. “In the way that the spiral continues to expand,” says Smith, “so does the story. It’s an ever-giving, ever-expanding concept [with a] strong connection to all things natural. Nature is not chaotic, it is mathematical.” It is this appreciation for logic’s influence on nature that inspired the plaza’s sound design and allegory at its center.

Sculpting landscapes in accordance with contextual conditions and clients’ demands presents some challenges. Imposing architecture, for example, or code restrictions can greatly affect design choices, development, and execution. “Trying to make coastal interpretations without crossing any lines is [difficult],” says Smith, who notes the strict regulations for building seawalls as particularly difficult to hurdle. Determining sightlines that clients wish to block and those they’d like to “borrow,” as in the case of desirable views, requires good strategic planning. Transitioning from outer to more intimate settings demands great skill. “I’m always squinting to find the natural cues and to see what connects a property to the larger landscape,” he says, “clues [like] escaped colors and plants from outside that can be used to bleed out from a home’s own landscape.” According to Smith, if the connection between home and place is not made seamlessly, “it [looks] like a fabric [is] sewn onto another fabric with a pattern change made by an ugly suture.” No matter the obstacles, he prefers some kind of springboard from which to begin a new project. Whether a disagreeable architectural style, a client’s insistence on pink pavers, or a site’s overabundance of serpentine rock, Smith feels ideas are more easily generated when there are a few constants in the mix. His wide-lens approach ensures there is always something at the ready. “The blank slate is the hardest to work with,” says Smith. “It’s the ultimate challenge.”

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Though conscious of the many details that go into a winning design, Smith’s primary aim is to get the most impact from the “big idea”—the overriding concept is what he wants felt, if not cerebrally understood. “I think of myself as a temporary artist,” he says. “Landscapes are going to fail, they are totally contrived pieces of nature…always evolving and changing.” To connect clients with their environment in an intimate and meaningful way, Smith pushes them to revisit their perceptions of what “landscape” is. “Right now it’s all about man controlling nature,” he says. “But, I think in the future it will be about man living with nature and having more of a connection to it.” It’s this vision that has Smith carefully stitching private gardens together with their surrounding environs. He uses choice materials, a practice hand, and a laser-sharp eye. The results are seamless.

Prime Finds: Outside

Transform your outdoor space into a decadent retreat with comfy, high-style pieces that truly bring the inside out. by Deborah Geiger

Neoteric Luxury XL Daybed

: Neoteric Luxury “The Setai” XL Daybed with three adjustable headrests, $8,095, neotericluxury.com

: Annette Hinterwirth “City Camp” lounger, from $10,225*, daybed with roof; $18,170, garden swing, dedon.de/en

: Daniel Pouzet “Swingrest” lounger, $6,515, hanging; $7,510, standing, dedon.de/en

: Daniel Pouzet & Fred Frety “Nestrest” lounger, $12,180, hanging; $13,540, standing lounger with base, dedon.de/en

: Gandía-Blasco Daybed Elevada Reclinable, from €4,850, gandiablasco.com

Seaside Landscaping 101

Debora Carl, of the eponymous landscape firm based in Encinitas, CA, breaks down coastal landscaping, from objectives to optimum plant choices.

A wall blocks the sea wind from this cozy courtyard.

Site Considerations

1. Retain sight lines to desirable views.

2. Maintain privacy while protecting sight lines (plants that give privacy may obscure a homeowner’s or neighbors’ views).

3. Establish barriers against cold coastal winds—glass railings or screens, plant material, low masonry walls, and “sunken areas” all offer some protection.

4. Create warmer, cozier areas like sheltered courtyards on “non-view” areas of the property.

5. Protect plants from salt spray (physically block salt-laden wind with buildings, fences, and other structures; irrigate often to wash off salt; use salt-tolerant plants).

6. Consider sun and wind exposure (pick hardy plants that withstand coastal conditions).

7. Test soil pH and select plants accordingly.

8. Know soil type (sandy soils lack nutrients and the ability to hold moisture).

Aspects of Waterfront Landscapes

1. Cool night temperatures (include outdoor fire elements, fireplaces, gas or propane-fueled heaters)

2. Cold coastal winds (establish barriers)

3. Corrosion (protect metal furniture with a powder-coat finish; use high-quality slings and fabrics, like Crypton or Sunbrella; choose Marine-grade stainless steel)

4. Poor Soil (amend with organic compost and yearly applications of organic mulch)

Succulents, Acacia, and grasses

Foolproof coastal plants

1. Most succulents (agave, aeonium, aloe)

2. Ornamental grasses (carex, New Zealand wind grass, pheasant’s tail grass)

3. Common rosemary (Rosemary officinalis) and coastal rosemary (Westringa fruiticosa)

5. Japanese mock orange (Pittosporum crassifolium ‘Nana’)

6. Perez’s sea lavender (Limonium perezii)

7. New Zealand cabbage palm (Coryline australis)

Helpful Hints

1. Plant health comes first; an unhealthy garden detracts from the overall landscape.

2. Do not use plants that need coddling; choose plants suited for coastal climates.

3. Check with local planning agencies to find out about restrictions for installing gas lines, irrigation, pergolas, plantings, etc., near buffs and beaches.

4. Install an outdoor shower to wash off sandy beachgoers and pets.

5. Provide storage for surfboards and other beach-related toys.

6. Don’t ignore the perimeter; the walls of your garden need to look finished.

Prime Find: Aluminum Allure

Inspired by the female form, royal botania’s d-lux line is soft, strong, and sexy.

Royal Bontania D-Lux lounger, $4,839, royalbontania.com

: Royal Botania D-Lux Table

: Royal Botania D-Lux 300 Table

: Royal Bontania D-Lux lounger, $4,839, royalbontania.com

: Royal Botania D-Lux 55 armchair, $1,449

: Royal Botania D-Lux 55 armchair, $1,449

: Royal Botania D-Lux 47 chair

: Royal Botania D-Lux 50 table, $799

Get the look: Royal Botania

Exterior Lighting for Your Outdoor Space

Lighting by Pinnacle Lighting Group

With exterior lighting, any outdoor space becomes usable—day or night. by David Eisen

As the old proverb goes, it is better to light a candle than curse the darkness. Thankfully for lighting designers, most homeowners follow this advice when it comes to the outdoors.
A great outside space should be enjoyed equally during the day and night. Homeowners can achieve this with the strategic placement of outdoor lighting.

“As beautiful and comforting as daylight and sunlight are, when we’re outdoors, we have very little control over [the light], but once the sun goes down, candlelight and artificial lighting allow us to create beautifully dramatic effects around our homes and gardens,” says Alfredo Zaparolli, principal of Techlinea, a San Francisco design studio that provides lighting design, electronic architecture, and project management. “With exterior lighting, we can highlight things we like and obscure into darkness and shadow things we don’t like.”

Think of lighting as makeup for the outside, accentuating the good stuff and hiding any blemishes. Claudia Juestel, principal of Adeeni Design Group, also based in San Francisco, treats outdoor spaces similar to interiors by creating areas for entertaining, eating, resting, and transition. “We look to create evening environments that are equally pleasant to be in as interior rooms,” she says. “But it is important that landscape lighting is well balanced with ambient lighting.”

Ambient lighting is key in lounge areas. A portico, gazebo, or pergola allows for overhead and wall or column lighting, but an uncovered space will require a combination of floor lamps and table lamps. Selections may be still somewhat more limited compared to indoor decorative lighting, but options can be found for both traditional and modern styles.

However, exterior lighting isn’t just for aesthetics; it’s also for safety. “Illuminating your property’s boundaries will make you and your guests feel more secure,” says Jim Burks, president of Atlanta-based Pinnacle Lighting Group, which specializes in architectural, landscape, residential, commercial, and security lighting. “It will also make any potential intruders feel insecure.”

Similar to interior spaces, LED is the biggest trend in exterior lighting due to its low wattage, long lamp life, miniaturized size, and ease of use. However, Zaparolli does say there are things to consider with LED lighting, including the fact that not all drivers are dimmable. Burks offers similar hesitancy. “Because LEDs are expensive when compared to other light sources, you may not recoup your investment if you’re planning to move within a short period of time,” he says. “Still, they are very popular.”

Kichler Lighting’s South Hope Outdoor Wall Light

The Get: Kichler Lighting’s South Hope Outdoor Wall Light

Mimicking old, classic lanterns with its box-like shape and handle accent atop each fixture, Kichler Lighting’s South Hope collection blends a mix of traditional and transitional elements for an eye-catching yet simple design. A hollowed frame featuring a rubbed bronze finish encloses a satin-etched opal glass shade. The four-piece collection includes a post lantern and wall lanterns in three sizes. From $150 (width: 5.5”; height: 11.75”) to $387 (width: 9”; height: 19.75”).

Crowning Color

A well-chosen roof color scheme can bring out a home’s important architectural details.

Choosing a color for your roof is more than a matter of taste— it’s a science. By Kiley Jacques

A home’s roof accounts for a large portion of an onlooker’s visual field, so color is crucial. It is suggested, in fact, for it to be the very first color homeowners decide on when building or renovating a house. Therefore, despite its location, the roof is a home’s “foundation.”

According to color expert Kate Smith, “A well-chosen color scheme can bring out architectural details, down-play flaws, and enhance the look of a home.” Smith has a deep understanding of color theory, and she makes it clear that there is much to consider when determining a roof’s composition, as colors, materials, and their orchestration present a myriad of opportunities. Homeowners’ individual styles are reflected in the hues of their homes, making color choice highly personal.

A roof’s aspects carry many considerations, with the two most important being contrast and value. In most cases, shying away from roofs that contrast sharply with the rest of the home is advised; light and dark values are to be stressed instead. Smith advocates first selecting a color value that is close to that of other permanent features—brick or stone facade, stairs, and retaining walls—then finding a main color with more contrast to blend with exterior details. She also recommends determining a final color for the front door and shutters—one that holds the deepest value of all.

Homeowners, suggests Smith, should look at their neighborhoods for context and direction. By examining both the architectural and natural surroundings, color seekers can determine which tones blend, complement, and stand out. Likewise, a home should relate to its region; climate, topography, landscape, and quality of light are all relevant when considering color. Smith believes natural wood finishes or cooler colors—like blues, greens, grays, and beiges—work best in northern climates, while bright white and more vivid tones are an excellent fit for southern light.

In addition to scouring the neighborhood for ideas, it’s important to establish what makes something visually appealing. Acquire a better understanding of color with professional onsite consultations or by reading Smith’s guide, FRESH Home Exterior Colors. In it, she supports a “top-down” approach for selecting roof colors that will harmonize with the home’s overall exterior. She speaks often of the underlying “cast-color” of an exterior as a key factor; generally, casts are hues of gray, bluish gray, gold, or peach, and they are the common denominators of color design rules.

According to Smith, one of the most common blunders is underestimating a roof’s role in a home’s overall appeal. She insists it is an integral part of exterior home design. Furthermore, she warns, “If a roof color fights with other permanent elements, the main and accent color choices will be limited to those that can work with disparate parts.” In other words, the home is only as good as the sum of its parts. sensationalcolor.com

The Get: Lily Swing

Accent elements come in many forms—shutters, furniture, and garden art all offer ways to play up a home’s more substantial features. Sometimes, getting a little kooky provides refreshing variations on old themes. Consider designer Stephen Myburgh’s Lily Swing, for example. This six-foot copper and stainless steel swing is not only a conversation sparker, but also a vehicle for highlighting fundamental design components. A half-circular stand measuring nine feet high with a four-foot-diameter freestanding base is available separately. The Lily Swing is priced at $4,841; the stand is $806.95. myburghdesigns.com.

Made in the Shade

Keeping cool in the outdoors is only as good as your cover. By David Eisen

Planning your outdoor space might come second to designing your home’s interior, but when the time does arrive, the right composition of shading elements can make or break the scene.

“Outdoor areas of the home are very important in setting the feel and tone of the entire house,” says Gail Green of New York’s Gail Green Interiors. “They are a prelude to what one will see on the inside. Cheerier appointments on the exterior correlate to a lighter, airier feel in the home.”

A smartly positioned umbrella in a color scheme that either matches or sets off the corresponding landscape can transform the outdoor area into a comfortable, pleasing retreat. After all, an umbrella or other shading element can be as much a piece of furniture as a chaise lounge or Adirondack chair.

Against a coastal landscape, Green favors umbrellas, fans, and awnings with more subdued colors, like beiges, whites, and soft blues. “Natural colors, as opposed to vibrant ones, which are better suited for year-round warmer climates such as Florida, set a more modern tone, being more recessive.”

That said, it always depends on the homeowner’s taste, and outdoor staging shouldn’t contradict the interior. “The outdoor should be consistent with the indoor,” Green says. “If the house is colorful, so, too, should be the outdoor furnishings. There must be continuity.”

Many suppliers today are manufacturing shade elements that turn any outdoor space into a comfortable haven. Tuuci (tuuci.com), a manufacturer of parasols, pavilions, and lounges, is one of the leaders in the market. The Miami-based company’s Ocean Master Max Cantilever (pictured above) is a polished and anodized marine-grade canopy structure that extends from an oval-shaped mast and provides shade over tables and chairs.

If you are seeking a bit of Southern California style for your outdoor space, Santa Barbara Designs (sbumbrella.com) takes design inspiration from the exotic umbrellas of the open-air markets of the Mediterranean. The company fashions umbrellas under an array of collections, using materials like teak, mahogany, aluminum, and stainless steel.

Of course, durability is as much a concern as aesthetic appeal. Today’s best umbrellas are made of acrylic and are solution-dyed to ensure that colors are locked in, says Hans Galutera, a designer with BG Studio International, headquartered in New York City.

While Galutera often employs umbrellas as a shading element (he appreciates their portability and flexibility), whenever possible, he also employs natural elements, such as trees, vines, and pergolas to provide cover from the sun, not to mention some privacy. “They have a dappling effect and create shade and light that is artistic,” Galutera says. “When designed right, the backyard becomes artwork.”

Diamond Spas

Soak with sophistication in a custom bath from Diamond Spas.

Slipping into a warm, soothing bath can be the ultimate way to unwind at the end of a hectic day, and no one knows tubs better than Diamond Spas. Based just outside of Denver, Diamond Spas works closely with clients throughout the design and production

process to create custom bathtubs and spas. The Regal Luxury Bath (pictured at right) is made from polished stainless steel that brings a sharp modern twist to a bathroom. The double–walled tub (listed at $16,800) features a bowed-top ledge and six supporting legs, sporting an unparalleled level of sophistication. After reviewing clients’ sketches and design ideas, Diamond Spas provides formal estimates before moving into production and creating one-of-a-kind baths and spas (like the outdoor version pictured above) in three to seven weeks. Check out the company’s various stainless steel and copper bathtubs and sinks (right) for personal redesign projects. Any piece from Diamond Spas will bring your bathroom or kitchen to a new level of class and luxury. Bath and sink prices range from $5,700-$20,000, depending on the materials used. diamondspas.com. —A.R.

Wall of Green; Overseas Landscaping Innovation

An overseas landscaping innovation makes its way stateside. By David Eisen

There’s a long history of Americans adapting French constructions. Our penchant for Gallic food and wines, for example, is renowned. These days, we’re taking a cue from the country’s botanical enterprises. One of the newest fads in landscape design is the living wall, or green wall, an innovation championed and perfected by a Parisian botanist named Patrick Blanc.

What is a living wall? Put simply, it is a wall, either freestanding or part of a building, that is partially or completely covered with vegetation. Blanc pioneered this vertical garden system, no better example of which is the Musée du Quai Branly in Paris, where a 656-foot-by-40-foot wall of green hugs the building’s exterior.

On a smaller scale, the look, which is an outgrowth of commercial installations, is creeping its way into many a backyard stateside. Craig Jenkins-Sutton, owner of landscape company Topiarius (topiarius.com) in Chicago, says the living wall is a design element more and more homeowners are installing not only for the look, but also for the cost-saving benefits.

“They are extremely popular,” Jenkins-Sutton says of the walls. “They also have environmental benefits and offer cost savings on cooling in the summer by creating an insulating barrier.”

How the green wall works: Though the science behind the living wall can be quite technical, a living wall is basically a modular system, whereby trays or cells are attached to rails and contain some type of vegetation. Perennial grasses, succulents, flowers—even herbs and vegetables—have all been done.

“Living walls are becoming more popular because it gives the architect, landscaper, or homeowner the ability to arrange plant material in a graphic design, allowing them to utilize plants they never would have used in the space to accent and add color and design,” says James Rizzo of BrightGreen (brightgreenusa.com), a southeast-Michigan company that specializes in living wall installations.

Maintenance of green walls is an issue, however, and while warm-weather climates are more suitable, they can survive, with care, as annual installations. They should be positioned with access to plenty of sun, and watering is a crucial undertaking. The trays in most living walls are perforated so that when watered from above, the water can easily seep into the soil of each tray. Jenkins-Sutton, however, instructs his clients to install drip irrigation systems for better coverage.

the get Tournesol VGM module

The VGM is a 100-percent recycled plastic planting module, attached to stainless steel rails mounted to a wall or structure. A wide, controllable variety of plants can be used in nearly any condition, and each planting module is available with a four- or eight-inch soil profile. Because restricting cells or baffles don’t limit root growth, plants grow healthier and stronger. Stainless-steel hanging brackets require no screws or fasteners, install easily on planted modules, and allow for removal and maintenance off-site. The rails carry the load of the soil and are easily mounted to either the wall or a framed sub-structure. $125-$150 per square foot. tournesolsiteworks.com.

Summer Entertaining

The sun is shining, the waves are splashing, and it’s just about time for your first summer party. Make the first party of the season one to remember with an exotic outdoor oasis theme. Take a look at these tips for an amazing summer gathering.

Continue reading Summer Entertaining

Entertaining With Garden Pods

The Garden Pod

Garden Pods put a sci-fi—yet elegant—spin on al fresco entertaining. By F.E. Exley

If Steven Spielberg had become a designer rather than a film director, the Garden Pod might just be a product that he conjured.

Garden Pods are self-contained enclosed units that heighten the enjoyment of a backyard or garden. Think dinner with the family, drinks and cigars with the boys, even an outdoor office. These outdoor havens aren’t yet available in the U.S., but you can be the first on the block to have one when they become available in early 2013.

“The attraction is their flexibility. They can be anything you want them to be,” says Benjamin Hadley of Mars Lab, the company with exclusive rights to distribute the Garden Pod in the U.S.

Currently, Garden Pods come in four models: small, medium, the deluxe summerhouse, and the large diner pod. Note: Three of the models rotate 360 degrees; the large diner pod is stationary and can come with an optional solar panel with mood lighting.

Each pod can also be customized to the owner’s tastes—think interior color and upholstery. Models can also be equipped with touches like a cigar humidor, a bar, and media units.

Landscape architects are already excited for the export to arrive. “It works perfectly as a space within a space,” says Matt Preuss, a landscape architect based in Redondo Beach, California.

The Garden Pod’s appearance reminds some of a prop from a sci-fi flick, but Hadley says it blends well with any garden environment, mostly due to the materials used in its construction. “The pod mimics its environment,” he says, noting the core’s mirroring aspect. “The outer perimeter is made from sustainably farmed Norwegian treated pine. It’s 20 layers fused together.”

Able “to withstand the weather over time,” the pods are well suited for ocean climates, says Hadley. They are also resistant to mold and have UV protection. The Garden Pod should have success in the market if the continued trend of contemporary over classic holds steady, according to Hadley.

Of course, some homeowners just like the idea of “peculiar” spaces that create conversation. Pricing begins at $13,000 for the smallest pod, while the diner pod sells for $30,000; installation takes between one and two days.

The Get: Souluxe

There’s nothing like a soft glow to warm up an evening outdoors. It’s even better when the light source is sustainable. Meet SOULUXE, from Rotoluxe, makers of environmentally friendly display units. This line of sustainable containers can be used as tables, seating, and planters, but they are particularly appealing when lit, as their translucent material diffuses light to create a soft glow. They’re made from recycled plastic, and the containers and stands will remain lit for five-plus hours without need of a power supply. The most popular models (Vazon Magnum, Korto, Kvat, Tavo, and Chumbo) are $170;the Infinity Bench is $420; the Vazon Methuselah is $800.

Considering an Outdoor Kitchen

Spring has arrived and many homeowners are starting their remodeling projects! A big trend that home renovation specialists are seeing is outdoor kitchens. While an outdoor kitchen definitely makes your BBQ more exciting, there are a lot of considerations to think about before undertaking a large project. Take a look at these tips on what you should consider for your perfect outdoor kitchen.

Region

The weather in the area you live in is one of the most important things to think about when planning for an outdoor kitchen. If you live in a region with four distinct seasons, chances are you’ll only be able to use your kitchen half of the year. In other areas where it is warm year-round, it could be uncomfortable cooking in the heat and you may be better off just cooking indoors with the A/C running. Consider how often you’d be able to utilize this space.

Space

If you choose to have a full second kitchen outdoors, you’ll require quite a bit of space to work with. A large yard is necessary, or if you have a small yard, you’ll have to be willing to sacrifice the little space you have. Do you plan on entertaining in the kitchen or would you like to include a separate lounge or dining space? The more activities you want to do in the kitchen and surrounding area, the more space you’ll need. If you want a more multifunctional outdoor space, it will take careful planning and consideration.

Location

Another issue that goes along with space, is placement. Having an outdoor kitchen that shares a wall with your home makes it easy to run utilities from the house to the new kitchen space. If you want an island style kitchen it will be more difficult to configure the wiring and plumbing to your outdoor space. You may also want to consider the amount of privacy you’d like from the street or from neighbors. It’s also important to consider your neighbor’s privacy! Building an outdoor hotspot on the tail end of your property will give your guests privy to your neighbors affairs.

Materials

Depending on your aesthetic tastes as well as the weather conditions in your area, you will have to determine the best materials for the job as well as the type of appliances you want to have in your outdoor kitchen. It’s important that your materials are water proof, and slip resistant. Avoid slick tile or marble or your kitchen will become a danger zone quickly!

Amenities

Think about what you cook now, what you’d like to cook, and tools you’ll need to prep and cook your dishes with in your outdoor kitchen. A stove or pizza oven would be useful if you plan on baking, while if you’re more of a barbequer, you may get along just fine with a nice grill. You’ll also want to think about how much space you’ll need to prep your dishes. Do you have enough room for long countertops or will you do most of your prep work inside? There’s also the matter of dirty dishes. Many kitchens have sinks so that you don’t need to carry dirty dishes back inside the house. That also means an additional utility hook-up outside.

Think about these aspects of the project before you decide to start to renovate the backyard to include an outdoor kitchen.

This article was written by Erie Construction.

(Image via Kieffer Appliances)

Home Renovations that Add to Security

In this day and age, it’s more important than ever to take precautions to keep your home and family safe from harm’s way. If you’re thinking about remodeling your home, why not consider renovating with a few extra safety features in mind? Take a look at these 5 renovations that can help keep your home secure.

Doors

Did you know that most home invaders walk right through the front door? When renovating, purchasing a new door or lock system is one of the most effective ways to prevent intruders. If you want to buy a brand new door, make sure you select one with a peephole. While it may seem like a small detail, a peephole keeps you from having to open the door to any strangers. Dead locks should be installed on your doors as spring latch locks are easy to jimmy open with simple tools.

Windows

Large windows on the ground floor are easy targets for burglars as are windows close to doors. If you’re planning a home addition or a large scale remodel, consider placing windows high on the wall and away from doors. When purchasing new windows, avoid tempered or thin glass windows. Double and triple pane windows are much harder to break through. You could also opt for laminated glass which is also very durable and resistant to cracking. Make sure you install locks on your windows, as it’s easier for a criminal to simply open the window rather than break it.

Floor Plan

When planning the floor plan for your renovation, keep safety in mind. It’s best to keep all of the bedrooms on the second floor. Should your house get broken into during the night, you’ll be as far from the invader as possible. If you don’t have a second story, bedrooms should be kept towards the back of the home off a hallway of a single entry point.

Landscaping

You may not think that landscaping has a lot to do with home security, but a smart landscaping scheme can help protect your home. Trees should be kept away from windows. While it may seem to provide privacy, it also conceals your view of the outside. Trees near windows are also convenient places for home invaders to duck behind. You may also want to install a tall fence that circles your property to ward off intruders. Lastly, outdoor lighting can deter criminals, so plan on having a well-lit landscape and install motion activated lights.

Security System

A security system is the smartest way to protect your home and family against burglars. When installing, be sure to conceal any wiring as criminals will snip the wires to disable the system.

This article was written by Erie Construction.

5 Quick Fixes for Your Home Exterior

Selling your home is not the only reason to fix up the exterior; you may simply want to make your ocean home more attractive and distinctive. While it is possible to spend a great deal of money redoing the outside of your home, you can also do this inexpensively and achieve absolutely fantastic results. Living on the coast means that your home is open to the elements. The sea air corrodes paint and makes ocean homes look tired and worn faster than those inland, so here are 5 relatively easy and fast ways to perk up any home.

1. Painting your home can be the difference between night and day for how your exterior looks. Over time, paint ages and will peel and crack. Usually, new paint can be applied over old as long as you do a bit of scraping. You might also consider trying a new color on the house with a contrasting paint for the trim. For more tips on this, see Choosing Exterior Paint Colors.

beautiful summer beach house with the sun shining on it 2. Even if your home does not need new paint, it can probably use a good washing. While many people think this means using a pressure washer, you might get better results with simpler tools. One of the problems with pressure washers is that they can force water behind your siding. Pressure washers can even damage the siding itself. You can get good results by using a soft brush with an extension handle, a bucket of sudsy water, and your garden hose. When you start washing your home, begin at the bottom and work your way to the top. To rinse, use your hose at the top of the building and work down. If you have mildew on the siding, you will need to remove it with a bleach solution before washing. Rinse the bleach off before the actual washing begins.

3. In all probability your front entry can stand a bit of pepping up. Try adding some new lighting fixtures – there are a number of styles from traditional to modern to choose from, and these can be a quick fix for the exterior. Besides lighting, you can also add some container plants. Tubs with bright flowers or stately dwarf evergreens will really draw the eye. If your front door is beginning to show its age, a new one can make a real difference in how your home looks, to.

4. There is hardly anything that adds to the appearance of any home more than flowers. Although you can always take the time and effort to put in flower beds around the house, it can be much easier and faster to use hanging baskets and window boxes. Most nurseries have a great range of colorful flowers that are perfect specimens for use in hanging baskets. All that will be necessary will be to add some brackets to the house itself or onto the porch and hang up the basket. Window boxes are also easy to install and fill with your favorite plants. These bright quick fixes will really smarten up the appearance of any house.

5. If you have a deck or patio, an awning can provide a quick and attractive fix that not only makes your home look better, but helps you get more out of your addition. Patios and decks are a great way to enjoy your outdoor furniture, but often are unusable either because it’s raining or they are baking in the sun. An awning will make these areas an extra, outdoor room, allowing you and your family to enjoy your yard more. These awnings can be either extended or retracted by a hand crank or by motor. The motorized awnings will cost a good deal more than those operated by hand.

Robert is a freelance writer for Bridgman who supply Rattan garden furniture.

Image Credit: Chuck Felix

Automatic Pool Covers

An automatic pool cover not only provides peace of mind and cleanliness, but it also saves money in the long run.

A pool cover will prevent detritus and other debris from seeping into and accumulating in a pool, but a top-of-line pool cover can actually save owners money in the long run.

While manual covers are still manufactured, the way to go is automatic for ease and convenience. Bruce Grogg, president and CEO of Utah-based Pool Cover Specialists says, “If the pool cover is too difficult or takes too long to put on and take off, homeowners won’t use it. If they don’t use it, they won’t get any of the benefits.”

The advantages of using a pool cover are many, says Barry Greenwald, vice president of sales for Cover Pools, a leading pool cover outfitter, which Greenwald says represents about 33 percent of the automatic pool-cover market; its founder, Joe Lamb, is often credited as having invented and patented the automatic pool cover. “Covers keep the pool clean and costs down; a cover can cut operating costs on a pool by 70 percent,” he says. There’s even an app for that—really! The Swimming Pool Energy and Water Savings Calculator from Pool Cover Specialists is available on iPhones and Androids and shows how an automatic pool cover can save homeowners as much as $4,000 per year and 20,000 gallons of evaporated water.

The Save-T 3 Automatic Cover System

Greenwald likens a pool without a cover to a house without a roof. “Warm air escapes,” he says. (It’s easy chemistry: chemicals dissipate, water evaporates, heat rises.) A good cover can keep a swimming pool seven degrees warmer than if it goes uncovered.

Though saving money is always a nice benefit, pool covers—for a family, in particular—offer peace of mind in that they prevent drowning. The cover acts as a horizontal fence, completely sealing off the pool and preventing access to the pool by children and pets.

Cover Pools’ top-of-the-line cover is its Save-T 3 automatic safety pool cover. Each cover is customized for the size and shape of an owner’s pool and can be controlled by the turn of a key or the push of a button. There are 11 colors to choose from, so matching the cover to the pool deck is a snap. “We have a popular grey cover that goes great with grey stone decking,” Greenwald says.

For ocean homes, a common tandem is the pool/spa combo. Cover Pools’ Autosave Spa Cover offers the same safety and energy-saving benefits as a full-size automatic pool cover but with a more compact mechanical system; it retails from $4,000.

Pool Cover Specialists offers its Infinity 4000 automatic pool-cover system that fits both free-form and rectangular pools, and it can be used on both new and existing pools.

When it comes to choosing electric or hydraulic pool covers, Gregg says, “It’s like automobile manufacturers: They all sell cars; it’s just the models and the accessories that are different, but they all work generally the same. In the end, it comes down to personal preference, in many cases.” Grogg says that hydraulic systems work best on larger pools. When retracted, these pool covers literally disappear into thin air, hidden inside housing units or vaults that are typically built in below the pool deck.

Note: It might seem obvious, but installing an automatic pool cover is almost always a job best reserved for the professionals. Homeowners should consult their pool builder or home contractor, who will have relationships with the varied distributors.

Halloween Decor

Cooler weather and the changing of the seasons are upon us. The excitement of Halloween is in the air. It’s time to swap out your carefree summer décor for something a little spookier. However, if plastic tombstones and inflatable witches don’t complement your style, try trimming your home with these classic Halloween decorations that are perfect for easy going coastal design.

Pumpkins

Pumpkin carving is a Halloween tradition that also makes for fun and easy décor. For a more sophisticated execution of the jack-o-lantern, try carving new shapes instead of cartoon faces. Monogrammed carvings give a new twist to an old classic. You could also carve leaves or trees. Set these outside along your front steps or on the porch for an easy outdoor decorations. Don’t forget to light them at night. Mini pumpkins and gourds are great for indoor or outdoor use. Paint them with metallic spray paint for an extra special look. Pumpkins also make excellent flower pots. Simply hollow out a large pumpkin and place a potted plant (mums work well) inside so the flowers stick out of the top. This looks great both outside and in.

Beach Finds

If you home style is beach chic, these subtle changes can carry your décor right into Halloween. If not, this project is a great opportunity to start adding a little coastal style into your Halloween decorations. Specimen jars are a great way to give your home some Halloween flair. Instead of using acid green food coloring and fake eyeballs, take a more natural approach. Pour small sea shells or black sand into apothecary jars. Place small pieces of drift wood, dried flower buds or single bird feathers inside others. You can find old fashioned labels at a craft store to stick on the jars. Label them as different potion ingredients like raven feathers or poisonous pods.

Flowers

Flowers may not be frightening, but they can lend to the Halloween spirit. An arrangement of dried flowers and spindly twigs makes a great Halloween decoration. There are also a few species of flowers that are hauntingly beautiful and perfect for Halloween. Mums, calla lilies, and dahlias are available in the deepest shade of purple, they look almost black! An arrangement of fresh-cut black flowers is a little unnerving.

Books

This is an easy project that looks great along with the beachy specimen jars. Recover hard-bound books as spell books. There are templates online that you can print out, or you could make your own.

Candles

There is something about the flickering flames of a candle that add to the Halloween spirit. Consider an arrangement of tall candles and various size pillars. Old fashioned candelabras or antique finger holders add to the haunted manor vibe.

Photos

Another easy way to decorate for Halloween is to swap out your photos with creepy portraits. There are hundreds of images online of old fashioned painted portraits that look downright spine-chilling. Print them out on photo paper and stick them in any frames you already have in your home.

Don’t get caught up by the gaudy inflatable zombies and fake cobwebs. These easy projects are all smart ways to deck your halls for Halloween.

This article was written by Erie Construction. Follow Erie Construction on Twitter.

Photo Credit: (1-2)Martha Stewart Living (3)It’s All About O
(4)Earth Sea Warrior (5)Soda Head (6)In between Seams (7)ChickaBug
(8)Unknown (9)Kaboodle (10)Chicago Tribune/Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Choosing Exterior Paint Colors

There’s nothing like a fresh coat of paint to revive the look of your home. Choosing the right colors can seem like a daunting task, but these easy tips will ensure that you pick the best colors for your house.

Look to the neighbors

Check out the neighbors for inspiration. It’s likely that there is a common color scheme in the neighborhood. If neutrals and muted tones are de rigueur, then you may want to reconsider that sunshine yellow paint you’ve picked out. Instead, opt for a pale yellow and bump up the color with brightly colored flowers in your landscaping. You want your home to stand out without becoming the eyesore of the neighborhood.

Reflect the environment

Homes in more tropical locales can introduce bright, bold colors that mimic the lush plants and flowers in the area. For example, those with homes on St. Croix are lucky enough to have Bird of Paradise flowers in their backyards. The beautiful orange color of the flower can be carried throughout the property not only in the landscaping, but on the house itself in the trim and shutters. Beachfront homes in any climate can echo the ocean by pairing shades of blue with sandy neutrals. Properties on the east coast can boast their famed autumn foliage all year long with their exterior paint colors. Choose colors like rich reds and warm golds.

Stay true to tradition

If you own an older home, a great way to choose an exterior color is to use the original paint color. Historically accurate color schemes a tried and true way enhance the look of your home. If you don’t know the original colors, check out a few period books to find a palette that would work with your home. You could also check with neighbors or your realtor for any old photographs from way back when.

Match your home’s features

Whatever palette you pick, be sure to match your home’s features. Choose colors that go well with the color of the roof and anything that won’t be painted, like fieldstone or brick. Be sure to consider any detailing on the home, such as wrought iron balustrades or copper awnings.

Play it safe or go bold

Staying within a single color family creates a sophisticated look for any home. Consider tints and shades of a single color for different parts of the job (walls, shutters, trim, etc.). This is a fool-proof way to get fantastic results. If monochromatic isn’t for you, go bold! Playing with a few different colors, dark and light, subtle and bright, will add drama to your residence. Be careful not to overload the palette, or you may end up living in a funhouse.

Keep in mind

Lighter colors make a house appear larger, while darker colors narrow
Glossier paints are more likely to show imperfections, but are easy to clean
Flat paints hide imperfections, but are difficult to clean
Paint swatches can be deceiving. Test the color on your home and look at it throughout the day for subtle changes in the sunlight before you commit.

This article was written by Erie Construction. For more information on Erie Construction visit our Guild Quality profile.

Entertaining ideas for your next outdoor dinner party

An intimate evening can be cozy even outside.

Having an outdoor party gives the cook(s) an opportunity to get out of the kitchen and enjoy the fresh air. It also gives the gardener a chance to show off their latest blooms. What better setting for a get together?

First consider what the reason for the dinner party is. Is it aimed at being a small intimate get together, maybe two couples who want to share some special news or just enjoy the evening away from every day stresses or is an event meant to be shared with the whole family and special friends? If it is only for couples this could be a very romantic and special event. Do you have a friend or family member who would be willing to play waitress? Set up some soft music and have it playing in the background and you may find that more than the ice will be melting…

Be sure to spray the backyard with a mosquito repellant. A few uninvited pests can certainly place a damper on the evening.

Maybe you had your mind on something on a slightly larger scale?

A children’s pool full of ice or a large (new) garbage can works nicely to hold cold bottled water or pop. Hot air balloons tied to the mail box help to let the guest know where the fun will begin. Many meat markets run specials on meat bundles and also carry an assortment of other prepared food items in their deli selection. If you purchase a large container of ready-made potato salad or macaroni (perhaps both) if you bring it home and place it in a fancy bowl, who will know you did not slave over this delectable dish? One can always have a get together where everyone brings a dish to pass also. Having one main table set up with the main dishes and finger foods is a great way to get everyone up and circulating. After all you did not have the party to stand around and talk to yourself.

Have a cleanup area

There will always be someone who is uncomfortable with food on their fingers or not having clean hands. Place a hand sanitizer and napkins in a nice little basket in an easy to see spot. You can also have sun block, mosquito repellant and lotion in the basket. Place a lined garbage can nearby. This will remove the embarrassing moment for the guest and make them feel more at home.

Place card tables outside for dominoes, board games, or card games as one option for entertainment. For those who are more energetic, horse shoes or lawn croquet are some others. Bad Minton nets are easy to put up and most people know how to play volley ball. It is a fun game to play or watch and is sure to improve everyone’s appetite and make the food taste better.

Lanterns can be hung from trees or porches.

Lights like these will make even card tables and folding chairs appear more festive and add to the gaiety. Many dollar stores carry outdoor party decorations this time of year so they can be purchased quite inexpensively. Maybe you would like to run some clear Christmas bulbs through a tree to light up the area.

Music and Entertaining

There is nothing like great music to enliven the ambiance of your outdoor get- together. And finally make sure each and every guest knows how much you appreciate their attending and they will be begging you to throw another get together soon. Enjoy your entertaining experience with your friends and family, and use the helpful tips to make memories for future events.

Marina Chernyak is freelance writer and co-owner of decorative mirrors website located at DecorativeMirrorsBoutique.com

Image sources – alkemie.blogspot.com, realsimple.com and punchbowl.com

Upgrade the Ambiance in your Ocean Home with Souluxe, Solar Lighting

New from Rotoluxe, LLC- This line of translucent illuminated stands and planters will add a comforting glow to any table, pool area, or deck. Solar powered and made from recycled plastic, the simple design was engineered to be as minimalist and versatile as possible. Souluxe stands and planters remain lit for up to five hours without the use of supply cord, making them the perfect environmentally friendly addition to your next dinner or gathering.