Shelterpop

Green Mansions: Good For The Earth?

Kelly Laffey — 2010-11-17T10:05:00 00:00

Filed under: Design, etc, Architecture, News & Trends

A software designer building a 10,000-square-foot home in Berkeley, California says yes -- but his neighbors (and some in the green building industry) don't agree.

For many the Big Green Monster conjures up images of Fenway Park's famed left field wall. But the phrase is taking on a more serious meaning for some architects, developers and environmentalists who are trying to stop home builders building big green monsters of their own.

An aerial view of Acqua Liana, a green home in Florida that is over 15,000 square feet. Photo: Frank McKinney

First, some history. Earlier this year, the city of Berkeley, California approved software mogul Mitch Kapor's plan to build a 10,000-square-foot home. A resistance movement immediately formed as community members questioned how such a massive house could meet the city's stringent green certification specifications for construction.

Current Berkeley environmental standards allocate 'green points' based on certain eco-conscious features of the home. A home, regardless of its size, gains approval if it achieves more than 60 points. The LEED certification system developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) also uses a point system, and it also allows very large homes to achieve LEED certification -- as long as enough green features are in place.

But the Berkeley home gets at a larger debate in the home building industry: Can outrageous new construction projects be green?

Some say no. Berkeley architect Gary Parsons, who is on the City's Landmark Preservation Commission, asserts that "Building a 10,000-square-foot house for two people is simply unsustainable; by world standards, it is obscene." He believes that green standards should be correlated to the size of a house. The bigger the home, the higher the environmental demands. While he doesn't advocate rigid restrictions on house size, at a certain point a large home would simply not be able to comply with the requirements.

But for some architects, green mansions benefit the housing industry, and some say the overall community. Frank McKinney is the architect of Acqua Liana, a 15,071-square-foot home in Florida. Acqua Liana is the first ultra-luxury home to achieve triple "green" certification from the USGBC, the Florida Green Building Coalition and the Energy Star for Homes.

A view of Acqua Liana's foyer (left), a one million dollar entryway designed by architect Frank McKinney (right). Photo: Frank McKinney

McKinney points out that virtually all methods of construction begin at the high-end housing market and eventually they trickle down to the macro market. "The benefit of homes like Acqua Liana being environmentally certified is awesome because it's so high profile," says McKinney. He believes that environmental standards should take into account the size of the house relative to the size of the property.

But some people believe that the debate is about much more than a certification -- it's a reflection of society's values. Dee Williams is at the forefront of the tiny house movement. Williams' 84-square-foot bungalow cost $10,000 to build and is powered by solar energy and propane. Her energy bill totals $8 a month, and her small house represents the ultimate example of green construction. "Living small has liberated me," she says. "I'm less isolated by my financial obligations and house projects, so I can invest my time, money, skills and talents differently."

Dee Williams lives in a tiny house with her dog -- Is size what green living is all about? Photo: nau/edenbatki 2010

Back in California, a group of Berkeley residents brought a lawsuit against the city in May, accusing it of failing to thoroughly review the property from an environmental standpoint. The case is still pending, and so the question remains, at least from a policy standpoint: Can a home be both large and environmentally friendly? Or will eco-conscious mansions be forever shunned as a paradox of big green monsters?

Need a pop of green in your life? Don't miss:
-Dos and Don'ts of Green Cleaning
-An Eco-Entrepreneur's Ups and Downs

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Odd & Unusual Flooring Options

Kelly Laffey — 2010-02-11T11:50:00 00:00

Filed under: Decorating, Design, etc, News & Trends

We rounded up some of the most unique flooring options we could find. Think: Pennies, Salami, Glass

We've all had those days when you wish you could keep your head down and avoid contact with all people. Well, if you look down long enough, you may be surprised by what you see.

We found some really cool flooring options that may inspire you to pay closer attention to where you're walking.

A floor made of pennies! Source: Floors to your home

Standard Grill, New York City: Looking for some good luck? Don't bother picking up one of these Lincolns! The floor of the Standard Grill inside of the Standard Hotel in New York City is made from thousands of pennies. The design was selected by Robin Standefer and Stephen Alesch of the New York-based design firm Roman and Williams.

A unique view of Chicago Source: Floors to your home

Sears Tower, Chicago: Seeing the skyline from atop one of the city's most renowned buildings is a must. Yet the Skydeck on the 103rd floor of the Sears Tower in Chicago offers something even better -- a chance for visitors to see the action of the city right below them. The newly opened glass observation deck delivers one of the most unique views -- and floors -- of any city in the world.

What a way to begin a night! Source: Floors to your home

Finsbury Avenue Square, London: As night falls, environmentally-friendly LED lights illuminate Finsbury Avenue Square in London's Broadgate business district. The installation was originally commissioned to add more allure and pizazz to the once unassuming space. Welcome to one of London's most exciting public spaces.

Who would have thought that concrete could be so beautiful? Source: Floors to your home

San Francisco, California: When people think of concrete floors, they usually don't associate them with beautiful home decor. The San Francisco based company Transparent House is shattering that stereotype with their elegant designs. The flowers and swirls are suitable for any contemporary home. And spills couldn't be easier to clean!

Puzzled? Source: Floors to your home

New York, New York: Unsure how to make a child's bedroom more fun? Paul's European Touch Pro Wood Floors, Inc will create any type of hardwood floor for you, but we really liked this jigsaw puzzle. It adds whimsy and fun to any room!

A floor that tracks your every step Source: Floors to your home

St. Lorenzen, Austria: Hansel and Gretel wouldn't have gotten lost with this floor! The LightFader Interactive Illuminated Flooring by Tricorder will light your way. When you take a step, the pressure displaces the liquid inside of the floor and leaves a glowing footprint for about a minute.

Feeling inspired? Here are some of our fave links of the week.

Check out Casa Sugar's round of gorgeous toile products or get help picking out the perfect Valentine's Day gift for the home on the Frisky. (We also loved this idea for a fabulous DIY Valentine's Day present on DesignSponge.)

One last don't miss: Hear Domino editor Deborah Needleman talk about her design sense at Decor8.

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Swine Flu Proof Your Home

Kelly Laffey — 2009-10-01T10:10:00 00:00

Filed under: Cleaning & Storage

Beat the swine flu blues and read on for how to keep your home safe and sanitary Photo: be_khe, Flickr

Although the symptoms and transmission of swine flu, or H1N1 Flu, are similar to that of the regular flu, swine flu is considered more dangerous because this is the first time the virus has appeared and humans have no natural immunities to it. Everyone -- not just the elderly or people with weak immune systems -- is susceptible.

But are there things that we could be doing to keep our homes germ-free? We decided to find out -- and yes, there is plenty that you can do to swine-flu proof your sacred space. Read on after the jump.

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has some great information on how to make your home less susceptible to the virus. Here's what you need to do:

Stock Your Bathrooms
The most important thing to prevent the spread of swine flu is to constantly wash your hands. Keep your bathrooms well-stocked with anti-bacterial soap. (My favorite scents are from Bath & Body Works). And, when going into the office or into a crowded area, bring a travel-sized antibacterial bottle and use it after touching a public surface.

Keep Counters and Tables Spick and Span
Because the virus can live outside the body (and thus infect other people) for 2-8 hours, it's important to keep surfaces in your home clean. Use a household disinfectant on heavily used items, especially children's toys, computer keyboards, doorknobs, kitchen counters, bedside tables and bathroom surfaces. Be vigilant -- but don't obsess! If you're really worried, install a copper sink. According to studies by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, copper's antimicrobial properties are capable of killing bacteria and viruses within two hours.

Wash Away the Germs
You should thoroughly wash such things as eating utensils, dishes and linens used by a sick person before anyone else uses them. While these items don't have to be cleaned independently of 'non-infected' products, linens should be washed with laundry soap and then tumble dried on a hot setting. When doing laundry, take care not to 'hug' sheets and towels that were used by a sick person. The virus may still be on the linens and you don't want it to spread to you!

Stock Up on Essentials
Be sure to stock your home with essentials in case you contract swine flu and have to stay at home. The CDC recommends staying at home for at least 24 hours after the fever has subsided. Having tissues, over-the-counter medicines, juices, water and food at the ready will help to aid in a speedy recovery and will prevent you from coming into contact with other people.

Fry Up Some Bacon
Ah, sweet revenge! It IS still safe to eat bacon. Just wash your hands before you chow down!

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Shipping Containers To Become Art Center

Kelly Laffey — 2009-09-03T10:35:00 00:00

Filed under: Luxury Living, Design, etc, News & Trends

Pier 57, pre-renovation. Photo: lemoncat1, Flickr

In a place where massive skyscrapers dominate the landscape, New Yorkers love when they can be green -- in terms of parks and eco-friendly buildings. Since space is so scarce, people are finding creative ways to recycle existing structures. Chief among the examples: a plan to renovate Pier 57.

Once a thriving shipping terminal along the Hudson River, the pier hasn't been used in nearly a decade but developers at Youngwoo & Associates will use shipping containers to construct a new arts and entertainment center there. The complex will include a restaurant, art auction house, art galleries, cafes, a rooftop park (yay!) and a Hudson River education center. The pier will be Hudson River Park's first fine arts center and city officials are hoping that it becomes an extension of the cultural activity in nearby Chelsea and the Meatpacking District. It should be completed in 2012.
As previously posted on ShelterPop, using recycled shipping containers to create living spaces is a growing phenomenon because they are a durable, environmentally friendly and relatively inexpensive method of construction. Youngwoo has enlisted Urban Space Management, who built London's highly successful Container City, to help with the project. To keep costs low, Container City was constructed with 100 percent recycled material and those savings were passed on to consumers. And, because the containers are made of steel, the final product is extremely durable. Pier 57 promises to be a lively, entertaining and environmentally friendly New York City hangout.

On a side note, I recently saw piles and piles of containers abandoned in yards along a New Jersey highway. I couldn't help but smile when I realized that a few of them would soon leave the trash yard for more constructive uses. (No pun intended!)

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Got Vacation Souvenirs? Use 'Em to Decorate

Kelly Laffey — 2009-08-13T10:00:00 00:00

Filed under: Decorating, Solutions, Your Home, Projects, Design, etc

This simple French mirror really gives the room some foreign flair. Photo: Artistic Designs for Living

Incorporating my travels into my home has always been difficult for me. Those pictures I took? Too many to actually fit in an album. That Indian headdress I purchased? Too exotic for my traditional living room.

I've lost count of the amount of times I've returned home from a fantastic vacation with a boatload of memories, a burning desire to tell everyone about my adventure and an inability to reconcile my vacation-life with my permanent life. But, help is on the way! According to new interior designer Tineke Triggs, traveling is the best inspiration for globally-inspired home decorating. Read on for some great tips on how to tastefully incorporate travel into your home decor. (For more destination-related design ideas, read Gina's post.)

Check out this chic Moroccan bathroom! Photo: Artistic Designs for Living

1) Make a special piece from your trip the focal point of the room. Art works especially well as a focal piece. If your items are smaller, consider placing them on a bookshelf or coffee table. Been to more than one favorite destination? "You can put different pieces from different places together in one room but the key is not to turn your home into the airport travel shop," she says. Less is more. Incorporating one or two exotic pieces into the room will speak volumes, especially when they inevitably spark great conversation with your guests. If you can't afford expensive art, have one of your travel photos blown up and frame it. "I had a client do that with pictures of the Indian sea and they look beautiful and professional," she says.

2) Invest in foreign tile patterns. Tile comes in a variety of sizes, colors and patterns. Tiles from Morocco and Mexico are very popular and can transform a bathroom into a getaway.

3) Consider the value of intricate lighting fixtures and wall sconces. There are some great internationally-inspired lighting options out there. The right lighting can add charm and character to any room.

Combine fabrics from your favorite places to give your room a globally-inspired motif. Photo: Artistic Designs for Living

4) Pillows are an inexpensive way to add regional flavor to a room. There are hundreds of great colorful fabrics out there from Africa, Latin America, Asia, India and more. Just buying a yard or two and making them into pillows for a bed or sofa can change the room. You can also use the fabric to make a throw or duvet cover to give new life to an old piece of furniture.

5) Be careful with what you purchase. Remember to "think about where you are going to put it before you buy anything." All too often we buy objects that don't go with anything in the home. Don't shy away from items that aren't exactly your style, but be sure that you can incorporate them into your room.

6) Color your world! Choose paint colors that match the palette of your favorite destination to help set the tone of the room. Accent a wall with that color like a vibrant Saffron red of India or Royal blue of Paris.

7) Can't make it to your dream destination? Shop anyway! "We are so global right now that it its easy to find shops in most big cities as well as online retailers that sell pieces from around the world," she says. Tineke's favorite places to find affordable pieces with global flare? Try World Market or Pier 1.

Read More
-Learn how to decorate your beach house

-Take a tour of the most beautiful beach houses in the U.S.

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Garden Gnomes: You Can't Get Enough of Them!

Kelly Laffey — 2009-08-11T12:28:00 00:00

Filed under: Gardens & Outdoor Living, Gardening, Garden Tours

We invited readers to share photos of their personal gardens. We love all of the great snapshots we received -- from the traditional to the exotic. No matter what the aesthetic, the garden gnome remains a universal presence -- and so many gardens thrive under his green thumb. We've compiled a gallery of some of the most interesting reader-submitted gnomes. Feel free to scroll through and then share your own photos! Don't understand why so many people are obsessed with these mythical creatures? Check out The Evolution of the Garden Gnome on AOL Garden or Modern Garden Gnomes on ShelterPop. Invite one onto your property and watch your flowers flourish!

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User-Submitted Garden Gnomes

Buckston and Shadow are 'at-the-ready' with their shovels and gardening boots.

User-Submitted Garden Gnomes

The flowers are lookin' good! Time to sit down for a small break.

User-Submitted Garden Gnomes

Meet Gnorman from Suehilldesigns. He won't make your garden grow, but he'll be a cute addition to your interior decor!

User-Submitted Garden Gnomes

Wally the Gnome stares excitedly at his backyard handiwork.

User-Submitted Garden Gnomes

This gnome was one of many that were passed on to friends and relatives of a late avid gardener. They ensure that everyone can enjoy their previous owner's gardening success.

User-Submitted Garden Gnomes

Meet Shemp. His lantern helps him to garden at night so you know that your garden will be taken care of 24/7.

User-Submitted Garden Gnomes

It's off to work we go! Four gnomes are better than one.

User-Submitted Garden Gnomes

This gnome is affectionately referred to as 'Scrappy' for his ingenious gardening ideas.

User-Submitted Garden Gnomes

We caught two gnomes taking a break from their gardening to play a quick game of 'toadstool checkers' beneath the lush leaves.

User-Submitted Garden Gnomes

Looks like there some sort of gnome-convention in the German homeland!

User-Submitted Garden Gnomes

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Top 10 U.S. Beach Homes

Kelly Laffey — 2009-08-11T09:00:00 00:00

Filed under: Wish We Could..., Luxury Living, Famous Homes, Design, etc, House Tours

Think fast: beach or mountains? That's a no-brainer for me. Beach wins. I love the rhythmic sound of the crashing waves and the cool breeze while I collect shells. Plus, the ocean suits the sports enthusiast and those who prefer a more tranquil atmosphere. Have you mountain-lovers changed your minds yet? No? Then check out these amazing beach homes from TopTenRealEstateDeals.com, always a source of envy and inspiration. Even the most extreme landlubber can't resist these gorgeous designs and breathtaking views.

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http://www.aolcdn.com/ke/media_gallery/v1/ke_media_gallery_wrapper.swf

The Top Ten Coolest Beach Homes

Beachfront Masterpiece
1801 Fernald Point Ln., Santa Barbara, CA
Price: $26,500,000
Co-listed by Suzanne Perkins with Sotheby's Realty and Susan Burns with Coldwell Banker Previews International Realty in Montecito, CA
Montecito's prime gated oceanfront enclave, Fernald Point, offers the perfect location for this spectacular luxurious contemporary villa overlooking its gently curving sandy cove with unparalleled panoramic ocean and island views.

The Top Ten Coolest Beach Homes

Beachfront Masterpiece
The entry level offers a spacious living room, formal dining room, large family room and expansive chef's kitchen, all with ocean views. There's also an office/library, two large bedroom suites, and dramatic entry hallway. Central to these rooms is an inner sun-filled courtyard with a tiled fountain that brings the outdoors into the home.

The Top Ten Coolest Beach Homes

Beachfront Masterpiece
A second upper floor bedroom suite provides guests with privacy and a penthouse view of the sea. The lower level consists of a family/media room with its own ocean view terrace, a bedroom and bath with separate entrance, and a large museum-quality storage area.

The Top Ten Coolest Beach Homes

Beachfront Masterpiece
Custom designed and completed in 1995 with exotic architectural influences from the Greek Isles, North Africa and the Mediterranean, the highest quality components, materials and finishes were applied in its construction.

The Top Ten Coolest Beach Homes

Beachfront Masterpiece
The vast 3-level ocean terrace features a stunning L-shaped blue-tiled pool and spa, al fresco living room, dining room and barbeque, wood-burning fireplaces and a private gracious stair descent to the beach.

The Top Ten Coolest Beach Homes

Beachfront Masterpiece
The master suite on the upper floor provides a magnificent ocean view bedroom and terrace, his-and-her baths, spacious walk-in closets, and a large office.

The Top Ten Coolest Beach Homes

California Dreamin'
2555 Altamar Dr., Laguna Beach, CA
Price: $19,950,000
Rob Giem - HÔM Real Estate Group
Catch the surf or some rays on the beach in this ultra-modern home located on one of the most gorgeous stretches of beach in the world.

The Top Ten Coolest Beach Homes

California Dreamin'
Sculptural forms, disappearing walls of glass, and graceful arcing lines make this 5 bedroom, 6 bath house a jaw-dropping California dream home.

The Top Ten Coolest Beach Homes

California Dreamin'
A perfect complement to its setting, this captivating design is an impeccably merged composition of materials, spaces and light.

The Top Ten Coolest Beach Homes

California Dreamin'
Cooking is always more fun when you have state-of-the-art appliances and a gorgeous view.

The Top Ten Coolest Beach Homes

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Commenting on Container Homes...

Kelly Laffey — 2009-08-06T16:00:00 00:00

Filed under: Green Design, Solutions, Design, etc, Architecture, News & Trends

We've received an overwhelming response to our post on container homes from The Daily Green. Readers have brought up a number of concerns, including considerable speculation as to how effective shipping containers can be as housing projects. Chief among the anxieties is the belief that the homes are expensive, flimsy and unattractive. While I may agree with the last argument (what can I say? I'm a sucker for traditional architecture), container homes really are a viable living option. Even if you can't personally use them for a house, developers around the world are finding ways to construct housing projects, office buildings, schools, hospitals and jails out of shipping containers.

This home was built entirely from recycled shipping containers! Photo: The Daily Green

Container homes are even catching on in the U.S. because they tend to be cheaper and faster to build than more traditional construction methods. According to SG Blocks, a company that specializes in container construction, a container home can be built in two to four months--half the time of a wood-frame house. The costs of the two methods are comparable, but shipping containers have the added benefit of being made of steel.

They're also environmentally friendly. CNN reports that there is a huge surplus of shipping containers stationed at ports around the country because the U.S. imports more than it exports. Not only are you recycling an old shipping container, but you're also saving a lot of energy in preventing the containers from being melted down and discarded. It takes one kilowatt of energy to melt one pound of steel and the containers typically weigh about 9,000 pounds.

Still doubtful? Keep reading and you just might change your mind (or become convinced you've been right all along...)

The homes are anything but fragile. The steel construction of the shipping containers is much stronger than wood. They're also water and termite resistant. SG Blocks reports that shipping containers are required to hold a 60,000-pound load and are designed to withstand the elements at sea. Co-founder David Cross has said, "It just made imminent sense that with minor modification it could become a multi-family living system."

As far as aesthetics, these homes don't necessarily have to end up in your neighborhood. (But, if they did, keep in mind that you can use the containers simply as the frame of the house. The outside can be covered with a more attractive material.) Containers are being used in cities as apartment buildings, offices and dorm rooms. Think about it: if a town needs a new community building, why not make it out of old shipping containers? In exchange for helping the environment, you'll have an extremely durable and usable workplace.

Exhibit A: Developers at Urban Space Management have constructed something called Container City in London. The housing project used 100% recycled materials to keep costs low. That cost reduction has been passed on to consumers. A 300-square-foot apartment (roughly the size of one container) in Container City costs about $80-$140 per month to rent. For more information on Container City, check out this great video on The History Channel.

Lastly, developers are continuously working to transform containers into homes for people displaced by disasters. Australian architect Sean Godsell has constructed Future Shack, a prototype for emergency housing. The container is designed to be mass produced, cheap and easy to transport. The homes are completely self-contained with built-in furniture and a bathroom.

As with any visionary ideas, shipping container homes still have a few kinks. But the models that are currently available have received rave reviews (if not from our commenters) and it is my guess that the concept is here to stay.

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DIY: Fragrant Lavender Bottles

Kelly Laffey — 2009-08-06T11:14:00 00:00

Filed under: DIY: Done in a Day, Crafts & Projects

Lavender is one of my favorite flowers. Its gorgeous color is rivaled only by its acute smell and, better yet, it remains in bloom for the entire summer. Why not harness the lavender's beautifully potent aroma and enjoy it in your everyday life? Create a lavender bottle with these simple DIY instructions and place it into a drawer or closet. The scent will infuse itself into all of your clothing. Getting dressed was never this much fun!

Here's how to do it!

Beautiful lavender bottles! Photo: Make It Do

1) Cut about 25 long stems of fresh lavender.

2) Remove any leaves on the stems.

3) Cut one yard of a 3/8-inch wide ribbon and tie it just below the blooms so that one end is really long and the other has little excess ribbon.

4) Fold the stems at the ribbon and back over the buds. Spread them out so that they are evenly dispersed around the flowers.

Pull the stems over the flowers. Photo: Make It Do

5) While still holding the stems over the buds, pull the long end of the ribbon out from the inside.

6) Weave the ribbon through the stems and down to the bottom of the buds. You can weave one, two, or three stems at a time.

Weave the ribbon through the stems. Photo: Make It Do

7) Weave one row below the bottom of the buds. Place some hot glue on the ribbon and secure it. Cut off any excess ribbon.

8) Trim the stems so that they are about 6 inches long.

9) Use the extra ribbon to tie a bow around the end.

Enjoy the scent of lavender in your home!

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Dorm Room Smarts

Kelly Laffey — 2009-08-05T15:15:00 00:00

Filed under: Your Home, Projects

The summer before my freshman year of college, I mistakenly assumed that a micro-fridge is simply a tiny refrigerator. Not so much. It's a combination microwave/refrigerator and is quite possibly the most useful dorm accessory ever. Now that that's cleared up, AOL Home has some more helpful dorm room shopping tips straight from the experts.

First and foremost, check the college's website for guidelines on what to bring. See if any accessories (like the micro-fridge) will be waiting in that tiny double. Figure out if you'll want a landline. Don't pack too much or forget the fun accessories you'll need to feel at home (Frisbee, anyone?). With so much to do (academically and socially), organization and balancing your time is key. I really like this Daily Dot Calendar from PB Teen. It's a great way to keep track of all of your activities!

Space to plan each day of the week. Photo: PB Teen

One last piece of advice: Bed Bath & Beyond has a great "find it here, pick up there" program. Head to your closest store, pick out the stuff you'll need, and Bed Bath & Beyond will make sure that your purchases are waiting for you at the store closest to your school. This really frees up some trunk space. Summer may have flown by, but with the right dorm supplies school can be just as fun!

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How To Make Your Bed a Haven

Kelly Laffey — 2009-08-05T12:37:00 00:00

Filed under: Shopping, Bedroom, Your Home, Projects

Last week, we invited readers to share tips on how to make their bed a haven. The results are in and we've compiled the top 5 most popular responses. Read on for some great ideas.

1) Comfortable bedding (re: soft sheets, a down comforter, zzzzzz) took home the gold. I couldn't agree more. Check out these snuggly goose down comforters from Overstock.com and L.L. Bean. L.L. Bean is based in Maine so you know that they're designing for maximum warmth!

A fluffy comforter makes me want to dive right into bed! Photo: Overstock

Higher thread counts generally indicate softer sheets, but my favorite are made from jersey fabric. They're warm in the winter but cozy all year round. Check out these fun colors at Garnet Hill.

Choose any color to match your decor. Photo: Garnet Hill

2) Losing to bedding by only one vote, pillows rang in as the second most important element to a luxurious bed. A good rule of thumb is that the pillow should maintain a height of about 4-6 inches. Most importantly, you need to feel comfortable when using it! If possible, try it out before purchasing.

Throw pillows on top of the bed are a great way to spice up neutral bedding and try out trends. Photo: Artful Home | Dwell Studio | Unison

3) Next on the list of bed necessities is good company. Spouses, children and pets all make time spent in bed more heavenly. (To be fair, some people advocated for a bed without family distractions!) Many agreed that a good bedside book is also essential to relaxing. Check out The New York Times Bestseller List for some fabulous titles. I just finished The Time Traveler's Wife and highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good love story!

4) Next up: ambiance. Making your bed each morning is a small way to ensure that it will always be welcoming. Many readers also like to iron their sheets. Opening your window to allow that cool breeze to come through will also help to freshen up your room. Many readers said they spray their sheets with a lavender or linen spray. Lavender has been known to calm anxiety (and thus help you fall asleep!) and lead to feelings of contentment and overall mood improvement. Try purchasing one from Mrs. Meyer's or making your own at home.

Room freshener is a great way to make your room smell clean. Photo: Mrs. Meyer's

5) A good mattress or mattress pad is essential. Go ahead, try out all of those department store bed displays!
A mattress pad is also a great way to supplement a sub-par mattress. Check out this topper from Bed Bath & Beyond. They saved my back in college!

Egg carton mattress pads are my favorite! Photo: Bed, Bath & Beyond

Now get some sleep!

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DIY: Fabric Covered Magnetic Board

Kelly Laffey — 2009-08-04T14:00:00 00:00

Filed under: DIY: Done in a Day, Crafts & Projects

You don't have to spend a lot of money to have fantastic interior decor. It's easy to create simple and inexpensive home accents. All you need is a little creativity! Here are some simple instructions for how to turn a bland magnetic board into a chic home accessory.

Read on for simple instructions on how to make this cute magnetic board! Photo: Centsational Girl

1) Pick out a stylish fabric that complements your interior.

2) Iron your fabric to remove any creases. Place the magnetic board on top, making sure that it is aligned with the fabric. Cut the fabric so that it is about two inches wider and taller than the board on all sides.

3) Begin by making a line of glue on the top portion of the back side of the board. Glue the fabric to the top of the board. Once the glue dries, repeat for the bottom of the board. Be sure to pull the fabric taught to eliminate any wrinkles.

4) Once the bottom dries, glue the two sides.

5) Accent the edge of the board with ribbon, trimming when you reach the corners. Be sure to have a line of glue underneath all of the ribbon.

6) It's easy to make magnets too! Buy some heavy-duty nickle-sized magnets from the hardware store and hot-glue decorative shells, stones, or other trinkets to them. If you've chosen a neutral fabric, the magnets are an understated way to add flair to the project.

Let everything dry and you're well on your way to having a more organized and stylish home!

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Container Homes

Kelly Laffey — 2009-08-03T08:25:00 00:00

Filed under: Green Design, Wish We Could..., Design, etc, House Tours, Architecture

Remember when you were a little kid and the best part about a big present was the box? Perhaps piggy-backing on that idea is today's concept of shipping container architecture. Buildings of all kinds -- homes, offices, cafes, schools -- are being constructed out of recycled shipping containers. According to David Cross, co-founder of SG blocks, a company specializing in container construction, the energy used to construct a container home is about 95 percent less than the energy used to melt (discard) the container. Yet they're not just for the environmentally conscious! Container homes are typically cheaper and faster to build than traditionally constructed homes. And because they're made from steel, they're also extremely durable.

Scroll through the photo gallery to see some very unique building ideas! Your vacation home may be closer than you think....

To read more at The Daily Green!

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Container Architecture

All Terrain Cabin
Canada's Bark Design Collective built the All Terrain Cabin (ATC) as a showcase for sustainable (and Canadian!) ingenuity. The small home is based on a standard shipping container and is said to be suitable for a family of four, plus a pet, to live off the grid in comfort and style.

The cabin folds up to look like any old shipping container and can be sent via rail, truck, ship, airplane or even helicopter. When you're ready to rest your bones, the cabin quickly unfolds to 480 square feet of living space with a range of creature comforts.

The Daily Green" href="http://www.aolcdn.com/photogalleryassets/home/672175/atc-grounds-365js072309.jpg" type="image/jpeg" rel="enclosure">Container Architecture

Container City II
London's low cost, environmentally-friendly Container City I was a success, and in 2002, Urban Space Management added an addition, dubbed Container City II. Reaching five stories high, Container City II is connected to its earlier iteration via walkways. It also boasts an elevator and full disabled access, as well as 22 studios.

The Daily Green" href="http://www.aolcdn.com/photogalleryassets/home/672175/container-city-ii-308js072309.jpg" type="image/jpeg" rel="enclosure">Container Architecture

Cove Park Artists' Retreat
Set on 50 acres of gorgeous Scottish countryside, Cove Park is an artist's retreat designed to stimulate and reinvigorate. Urban Space Management first brought in three repurposed shipping containers in 2001, and the center became so popular that more units have been added.

The Daily Green" href="http://www.aolcdn.com/photogalleryassets/home/672175/container-city-pond-ext-365js072309.jpg" type="image/jpeg" rel="enclosure">Container Architecture

Inside Cove Park
Doesn't look like your average shipping box, does it?

The Daily Green" href="http://www.aolcdn.com/photogalleryassets/home/672175/container-city-pond-365js072309.jpg" type="image/jpeg" rel="enclosure">Container Architecture

The Riverside Building, London
Offering fantastic views of the Thames for an affordable price, The Riverside Building hosts 22 offices in a modular design. Erected near Container City, the structure took a mere eight days (and 73 containers!).

The Daily Green" href="http://www.aolcdn.com/photogalleryassets/home/672175/container-city-yellow-365js072309.jpg" type="image/jpeg" rel="enclosure">Container Architecture

illy Push Button House
Italian coffee roasters illycafe were inspired by Adam Kalkin's designs, and commissioned him to build the Push Button House. In just 90 seconds, a compact metal container opens into a fully furnished cafe, with functional kitchen, dining room, bathroom, bedroom, living room and even library. Andrea Illy, chairman and CEO of illycaffe, has said the company was interested in Kalkin's ideas of "home as one continuous mouldable surface, a relief against which human activity would pop out."

The Daily Green" href="http://www.aolcdn.com/photogalleryassets/home/672175/illy-container-open-365js072309.jpg" type="image/jpeg" rel="enclosure">Container Architecture

Jakarta Container Living
It's important to remember that resourceful people have been living in repurposed shipping containers for decades, particularly around ports and along the margins in developing countries. The big metal boxes are dry, fire resistant and quite readily available.

Here, some men make their homes in containers in Jakarta. A community of people have lived in shipping containers for 20 years in Armenia, since the temporary housing set up for them after the devastating 1988 earthquake has never been replaced.

Container Architecture

LOT-EK Concept Tower
Constructed by LOT-EK is this fantastic concept for a tower at 87 Lafayette Street in New York City. The idea is for a 19-story artists' loft building, built by stacking containers, with staircases at the north and south ends. The roof of the slanted tower would sport solar panels.

The building in front of the bold new design is an historic New York City firehouse, perhaps serving as a visual tie to the past.

Container Architecture

M2ATK Container House
M2ATK designed this hip Container House for an artist. It's fully equipped with heating and cooling, a kitchen, bathroom, communications access and comfortable furniture.

The Daily Green" href="http://www.aolcdn.com/photogalleryassets/home/672175/m2atk-container-365js072309.jpg" type="image/jpeg" rel="enclosure">Container Architecture

De Maria Design Redondo Beach House
With its modern lines and appealing spaces, the award-winning Redondo Beach House by De Maria Design turns heads. The luxury beachside showpiece was built from eight prefabricated, recycled steel shipping containers, along with some traditional building materials. According to the architects, the modified containers are "nearly indestructible," as well as resistant to mold, fire, and termites. Seventy percent of the building was efficiently assembled in a shop, saving time, money and resources.

One of the containers can even sport a pool! The lessons learned from Redondo Beach House are being incorporated into a line of more affordable, accessible designs, soon available as Logical Homest.

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Weirdest Buildings in the U.S.

Kelly Laffey — 2009-07-30T09:44:00 00:00

Filed under: Luxury Living, Famous Homes, Architecture

Admit it: You're a rubber-necker. I am too, although nothing annoys me more than sitting in traffic because the cars in front of me want a closer look at some roadside anomaly. But, just like everyone else, I'll slow to a crawl and take in the sight. As I accelerate towards my original destination, I tend to scoff at the display and focus on how late the traffic has made me. Some architecture, however, is definitely unique enough to warrant the increased travel time. Check out the below photo gallery for some one-of-a-kind buildings and start planning your cross country roadtrip!

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Wacky US Buildings

Log Cabin Mobile Home Australia--Alan Jennison from Hobart tourism, an Australian travel site, recently listed his 450 square-foot log home on eBay and the lucky winner, a fellow Australian, scored the property for a mere $12,000.

Wacky US Buildings

Log Cabin Mobile Home The home, designed to look just like a log of wood, stretches 42 feet long and is mobile -- resting on a truck bed with wheels and brakes. Interesting bit: it's not made out of a single tree trunk! Instead, it is constructed from curved marine ply covered with insulating foam and layered with fiberglass.

Wacky US Buildings

Log Cabin Mobile Home Jennison acquired the mobile home in 2007 from Forestry Tasmania who used the creation to promote tourism. The home has electrical hook ups, light fixtures and other essentials for living. Let's hope the new owner fixes up that interior! Learn more over at Inhabitat.com.

Wacky US Buildings

Spaceship Home
Guilford, Connecticut -- When architect Wilfred J.O. Armster designed his spaceship-shaped condominium in the 1980s, the town of Guilford was in an uproar. But its 13 condos were snapped up, and now it's a local landmark. Read more about it in the New York Times. It gives new meaning to the term "mothership."

Wacky US Buildings

The architect Wilfred J.O. Armster and his wife in front of the "spaceship." The steel building is raised on concrete legs for better views of the Long Island Sound. Its dome is covered in copper.

Wacky US Buildings

Loft-like condos in the building get lots of natural light. Like it here? According to the New York Times, a unit in the building is on sale for $639,000.

Wacky US Buildings

World's Largest Basket
Newark, Ohio -- This seven-story tribute to the gift basket is Longaberger Basket Company's corporate headquarters. The building is a replica of the company's Medium Market Basket -- only 160 times larger. It's illuminated at night, too.

Wacky US Buildings

Beer Can House
Houston, Texas -- For 18 years, John Milkovisch devoted his time to covering his home with flattened beer cans. He even added streamers made from can pull-tabs to the roof. Ripley's Believe It or Not estimates that the house incorporates more than 50,000 cans. How's that for recycling?

Wacky US Buildings

Chapel of the Holy Cross
Sedona, Arizona -- Completed in April 1956 by Marguerite Bruswig Staude, The Chapel of the Holy Cross rises out of a 1,000-foot red rock wall. Spiritual leaders and tourists alike flock to this unique religious destination.

Wacky US Buildings

Dome of a Home
Pensacola, Florida -- Designed to survive the worst of hurricanes, the Dome of a Home has a solid concrete construction with steel reinforcements. The shape of the house allows water to wash over it rather than knock it down. And it seems to work -- the dome home made it through 2004's Hurricane Ivan relatively unscathed while neighboring houses were washed away.

Wacky US Buildings

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Cleaning Tips: By Readers and For Readers!

Kelly Laffey — 2009-07-23T13:31:00 00:00

Filed under: Solutions, Cleaning & Storage, Storage & Cleaning, Cleaning

More than likely, your most foolproof cleaning tip will not be found in a mass-produced instruction booklet. It was probably passed to you through world-of-mouth from a close friend or family member and you don't know how you lived without it! My mom shared the power of Ivory soap with me a few years ago -- rub it on soiled clothing before you put it in the washing machine and that stain is guaranteed to come out! Last week, we invited readers to submit their best cleaning tips to ShelterPop. We've compiled our favorites in the photo gallery below. Feel free to leave additional ideas in the comments section. Happy cleaning!

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Cleaning Tips

If there's a spot on your sheet or blanket, dampen, rub a little Ivory soap on it, and scrub gently with your nail brush. Sure beats having to take apart the whole bed and launder the entire ensemble!
-Marni

Cleaning Tips

Instead of scrubbing plastic shower curtains, just pop them in the washing machine. They come out looking brand new and you didn't have to scrub a thing!
-Tawny

Cleaning Tips

For a clean coffee maker, run distilled white vinegar through it every now and then.
-Jennifer

Cleaning Tips

To get your windows really clean, use white vinegar in a spray bottle and scrub them with crumpled news-paper. Makes them nice and shiny and streak free.
-Sandi

Cleaning Tips

Best cleaning tip- flip over the cushion and blame it on the husband! Just kidding -- be sure to blot stains instead of scrubbing them.
-Mrs. Mommy

Cleaning Tips

Try sprinkling some baking soda on the carpet before vacuuming. It leaves the carpet smelling fresh without the fake scent of those weird vacuum powders.
-Dr. B

Cleaning Tips

Add a few tablespoons of vinegar along with the dishwasher detergent when washing dishes. The vinegar cuts the grease and leaves dishes sparkling.
-Jessica

Cleaning Tips

Invite people over to your home on a regular basis! That way, you keep the place picked up and dust-bunny free. Otherwise, we have practically zero incentive to clean!
-Kris

Cleaning Tips

Coffee filters are good to clean glass tables and windows. They don't leave a streak!
-Dorothy

Cleaning Tips

Use dental floss to clean the areas around the faucet taps both in the bathroom and kitchen. It takes the yucky goo away!
-Laura

Cleaning Tips

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Under $100: Coffee Tables

Kelly Laffey — 2009-07-23T10:15:00 00:00

Filed under: Decorating, Shopping, Your Home, Living Room

Coffee tables can be so hard to pick out, but they're an important part of any living room -- a breeding ground for relaxation and good conversation. We decided to make the process easy and select our 12 favorite tables under $100. You'll be shocked by what you can get for the money. These tables are almost too nice to put your feet up. Almost....

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Under $100: Coffee Tables

Winsome-Antique Walnut Coffee Table
This stately coffee table is sure to enhance the decor of any room.
$99.00, Accent Furniture Direct

Under $100: Coffee Tables

Montego Coffee Table
This table is woven by hand and the neutral color would go well in any living room. The glass on top guards it against spills and shoe-prints. I think I like it best, though, because it's on sale from $399.00!
$99.00, Crate&Barrel

Under $100: Coffee Tables

Walker Edison Wave Oval Coffee Table
Stylish and sleek, this coffee table evokes images of ocean waves. And, it's the perfect accent to any contemporary room!
$100, Accent Furniture Direct

Under $100: Coffee Tables

Parsons Coffee Table
With an oak finish, this table has plenty of space for a few books and a tired foot or two!
$34.00, Walmart

Under $100: Coffee Tables

Colormate Coffee Table / TV Stand
Who says that a coffee table just has to sit in the middle of the room? If you choose to use this one as a television stand, the below shelves still provide ample storage!
$59.99, Kmart

Under $100: Coffee Tables

Moderno Contemporary Coffee/End Table
This modern coffee table meshes well with other neutrals and won't clash with colorful rooms!
$49.00, Walmart

Under $100: Coffee Tables

Dolce Dark Walnut Coffee Table
I love this table's elegant curved legs. And, the drawer is the perfect spot to keep the ever-disappearing remote!
$95.99, Target

Under $100: Coffee Tables

LACK Coffee Table
Sleek and functional, I love this table for its minimalism.
$49.99, Ikea

Under $100: Coffee Tables

Mission Natural Coffee Table
This all-wood traditional table has an understated beauty. With the second self, it's practical, too!
$79.99, Target

Under $100: Coffee Tables

Coffee Table in Espresso
The dark finish makes this coffee table as delicious as the name implies!
$99.00, Organize.com

Under $100: Coffee Tables

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Are You Obsessed With Being Clean?

Kelly Laffey — 2009-07-21T10:56:00 00:00

Filed under: Cleaning & Storage, Storage & Cleaning, News & Trends, Cleaning

Are you cleaning too much? Photo: Corbis

Who doesn't strive for a clean house? While some of us have more time to devote to it than others, no one wants to live in a glorified pig sty. Cleanliness exudes a certain notion of responsibility and self-respect. (Not to say that busy people are irresponsible or disrespectful!) But how much cleaning is too much cleaning? Where is the line between obsessively cleaning and clean enough?

The answer to this question is subject to so many different variables. Ultimately, it is a matter of personal preference. As reported in Reuters, a German woman recently divorced her husband of 15 years because she couldn't take his constant cleaning! The last straw came when he replaced an entire wall after it became too dirty. Too much cleaning? I think so.

The Cleaning Crew. Photo: Getty Images

What about cases where the line is more blurred? It is important to evaluate the potential toll that cleaning is taking on your life as a whole. Consider Monica Geller from the television series "Friends." She is comically preoccupied with cleaning, but is it a true obsession? Roommate Phoebe is quick to move out, proclaiming that "I need to live in a world where people can spill!" Yet Monica manages to balance her penchant for cleaning with the rest of her life. She amicably lives with two other friends -- first Rachel and then husband Chandler -- holds a steady job and is no stranger to socializing. And, while the other Friends often scoff at her efforts to enlist them in her cleaning expeditions, they clearly still love her. A slight obsession with cleaning fits Monica's type-A personality and does not negatively affect her relationships or personal life. While I may think that she violates the rules of a 'normal' amount of cleaning, her life is not worse-off because of it.

Cleaning should enhance, not detract from, your quality of life. My mom used to have an embroidered adage in the playroom -- "If I had to choose this one or the other, I'd like to be a housewife, but first I'll be a mother." Consider the effects that excessive cleaning can have on your children, significant other, and friends. Does your cleaning impede on their lifestyle? It would be great if your child would keep a neat room, but does he stay inside out of fear of bringing dirt into the house?

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, one of five major anxiety disorders by the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, is characterized by repeated behaviors performed in an effort to prevent or dispel obsessive thoughts. Cleaning is an example of a repetitive behavior. Think about seeking professional help if you suspect OCD.

So...what do you think? What is a 'normal' amount of cleaning? Is there a point where you're just cleaning for the sake of cleaning? Let's hear your thoughts in the comments section.

What do you think: How much is too much?. Photo: jupiterimages

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Dome Sweet Dome

Kelly Laffey — 2009-07-21T09:25:00 00:00

Filed under: Green Design, Famous Homes, Design, etc, Architecture

This UFO-like dome isn't home to George and Judy Jetson and it's not where E.T. has been hiding out. Rather, it's a home from Domespace Homes distributed by Solaleya. The houses are built to withstand Category 5 hurricanes and earthquakes up to magnitude 8 on the MSK scale. And they've been created with the earth's best interest in mind.

So might we say, thank you. With a remote control, the home can be slowly rotated towards or away from the sun to manage inside temperatures and ultimately conserve energy. Plus, it's equipped with roof-top solar panels. Crazy? Nah. We think brilliant!

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Dome Sweet Dome

The domes feature a 90% wood construction and are insulated with cork.

Dome Sweet Dome

The extensive use of wood allows for little contact with the ground reducing humidity levels.

Dome Sweet Dome

A remote control can be used to rotate the home towards or away from the sun to manage inside temperatures and reduce energy usage. Homes can be equipped with solar panels for the roof.

Dome Sweet Dome

The central pillar, seen here, forms a "star-like layout" as the company calls it, claiming to provide more space per square foot and more functional space.

Dome Sweet Dome

All windows are orientated "toward the sky", creating an airy and bright living space unlike many traditional homes where windows are perpendicular to the ground.

Dome Sweet Dome

The company claims that these structures have better "thermal efficiency" due to the shape of the home which encourages a natural circulation of air whereas the angular shape of traditional homes brings an "air stagnation making it harder to heat or cool".

Dome Sweet Dome

Building the shell of these homes can be completed in three months.

Dome Sweet Dome

The domes are constructed using only FSC-certified wood and have been proven to withstand category 5 hurricanes and earthquakes up to magnitude 8 on the MSK scale.

Dome Sweet Dome

Solaleya claims that turning the dome 360 degrees requires about the same amount of energy as vacuuming the house once.

Dome Sweet Dome

Although design challenges may arise as a result of domed ceilings and sloped walls, it seems as if homeowners--at least those living here-- have made the decor work just fine.

Dome Sweet Dome

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Wish We Could...Eat Here!

Kelly Laffey — 2009-07-20T08:01:00 00:00

Filed under: Luxury Living, Design, etc, Architecture, News & Trends

Sweeping birch panels create a wooded, tree-inspired canopy at Banq Restaurant in Boston. Photo: Andrea Burns

Housed in the old 1917 Penny Savings Bank building on Washington Street in Boston's eclectic South End neighborhood, Banq isn't your average restaurant. At just over a year old, Banq is already being hailed as an iconic city landmark for its unique design. And I can see why. The ribbed interior resembles the underbelly of a ship and provides the backdrop for an exceptional dining experience.

Designed by Office dA, the walls and ceiling form wooden waves that surround the recycled bamboo tables. Wallpaper Magazine has since named Banq its "Best New Restaurant" in an international contest, marveling at how the architecture "sets the senses swirling with its banyan, tree-inspired aesthetic."

An inside look at Banq. Photo: Andrea Burns

Yet, the the decor is not a ploy designed to distract from the food. Owners Hermant Chowdhry and Mark Raab of SOWA Restaurant Group chose Ranveer Brar, former executive chef of The Claridges, New Delhi, to lead the kitchen. Chef Brar is making his own waves in the culinary world. The menu combines Brar's classical French training with European and Asian influences to offer up a menu with tastes that spans the globe. Case in point: the flash-seared Vietnamese Shrimp with glass noodles and coconut sauce or the Pan Seared Haddock with white soy tossed asparagus and peppers, crabmeat edamame triangle, and starfruit compote. And, don't forget Sunday brunch!

The exotic flare, both in the aesthetics and in the cuisine, make this restaurant a must-try. My mouth is already watering!

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Illinois Resident Says 'Poo-Poo' to Town Ordinance

Kelly Laffey — 2009-07-16T14:00:00 00:00

Filed under: Gardens & Outdoor Living, Gardening, Garden Tours, House Tours, News & Trends

Tina Asmus enjoys her front yard decor. Photo: Daily Herald

Tina Asmus has found a way to modernize the concept of the outhouse. As reported in The Daily Herald, the Lakemoor, Illinois resident has planted flowers in old bathroom fixtures -- 2 toilets and a sink -- and proudly displays them in her front yard.

Friendly messages of "God Bless My Neighbors" and "Have a Nice Day" sit at the toilets' bases and the lids smile down at passers-by. But fellow residents are quick to snub Asmus's blessings. Mayor Todd Weihoffen is just one of the many people who do not share Asmus's conception of art. He supports the police's efforts to remove the planters in accordance with a town ordinance of "Public Nuisances Affecting Peace and Safety."

Asmus enjoys making people laugh as they pass by her house. Photo: Daily Herald

The artist refuses to invest in new lawn ornaments and believes that her front yard will look even more beautiful once the flowers bloom. She planted the flowers over a year ago and, though many complaints were filed, she was not forced to remove them. Mayor Weihoffen took office in May and intends to enforce the law.

Gives a new meaning to potty- erm- potted plants

Asmus posing with her art. Photo: Daily Herald

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