We’ve decided against the LEED system as it is by far and away the most expensive and seems to emphasize the business angle a little too much. I do like that it covers the house building process quite holistically, including considerations for landscaping and proximity to community amenities. However, requiring certified specialists in most every [...]
A few more examples of masonry heaters and fireplaces that have caught my eye. These ones are from Tulikivi:
Fiorina
Gemini
Have to say though, I think it is possible to have too much soapstone. I expect we’ll try to design something that combines some soapstone for its various advantageous properties – not the least of which is [...]
For those areas in your home that could use some brightening up and adding windows or skylights or solar tubes is not an option, why not consider the Sky Ceiling.
I’m intrigued… i’m picturing myself lounging on a couch gazing up at the LED starscape. I think the industrial applications make a lot of sense, I [...]
It’s been high time that I properly announce that Jane Thompson from the Ottawa firm, Jane Thompson Architect, is designing our home. I’ve been caught up in the details and with art festivals and going to the cottage.
We are thrilled to be working with Jane and her team: Erin, Rebecca and Laura. They have patiently [...]
First came across the masonry heater in Austria. Loved it. Nothing beats sitting with your back against the chimney on a chill Alpine evening. Supremely cosy. I imagine the schnapps may have had something to do with that warm and fuzzy feeling, but I give prime credit to the masonry heater.
Seems a perfect complement to [...]
I finally subscribed to BuidlingGreen.com so I could read all of the articles and have spent the last hour enthralled.
First, I was interested to note that the pressure treated lumber industry has responded to consumer concern regarding the toxicity of their manufacturing process and aspects of their product and has created a micronized copper process [...]
My husband asked me the other day if there have been any houses built in Canada that have adopted the Passive House standard. I had no idea so I thought I’d do a search. The question came up because we are considering going down this route with our build. Because the standard was originally developed [...]
Been browsing the stores and design mags for great kids furniture/storage/room ideas. I am attracted to whimsical, efficient storage solutions that adapt as the child grows. There is no shortage of childrens boutique stores out there catering to well-heeled fashion conscious parents but it’s hard to find such furniture that is reasonably priced, yet retaining [...]
Another potential case study, close to home, link sent to me courtesy of Joel Dick. I had started researching masonary heaters and local expertise on how to install them when I came across Herbert Senf of Masonary Heatkit. He in turn put me in touch with Joel Dick who is a local installer. Yay! I [...]
Oooh! Love the sorghum plywood. And the kirei board from here. Amazing what you can find when you start looking.
The next step will be to try and find local distributors. Just wanted to share as I havn’t seen much of these sorts of products to date.