Filed under: Construction and Permits, design, Energy Efficiency, Hot Topic, Landscaping, Resources, Sustainable Living, Water Efficiency | Tags: Architect, architecture, bamboo, climate, design, edible landscaping, environment, HERS -4, hot topic, Landscaping, LEED Platinum, Miami, Sebastian Eilert, Sebastian Eilert Architecture
GaiaMa is a new single-story home of 1500 square feet located in the Miami Dade village of Biscayne Park. The design is inspired by Vastu principles and has strong focus on sustainability and durability. The house is built out of ICF walls and insuldeck roofing system, making it hyper-insulated.
A central cupola features an inverted roof to optimize natural light into the center of the house and assist with rainwater catching. The windows are designed to be shaded from direct sunlight while allowing a breeze to come through when opened.
The LEED Platinum home has a HERS rating of -4. TH project features a full photovoltaic array with independent battery backups.
The home is designed as 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom house with an easily convertible 3rd bedroom by adding one wall and a door.
The entire landscaping is a edible with a mix of low growth native vegetables, design herbal sections, and larger anchor trees. An underground cistern collects rainwater as well as grey water.
Overall water use has been reduced with the use of dual flush and low flow systems. Finishes include polished concrete, bamboo flooring, reclaimed wood, and recycled countertops.
Sebastian Eilert Architecture is a sustainable architecture and Interior Design firm with its main office in Miami, Florida. The boutique firm specializes in the quality design and delivery of for custom new residential homes and light hospitality projects. Sebastian Eilert Architecture has significant experience in the design of Miami-Dade County criteria compliance, design for aging in place, durable and minimal maintenance design, as well as waterfront and off-grid projects.
Project highlights include the first USGBC LEED certified project for Miami Dade County, the Lower Garden Building in Pinecrest Gardens for the Village of Pinecrest, a durable focused residence in the Moorings neighborhood in Coconut Grove (no drywall or wood used in the project), a Contemporary style Coral Gables waterfront home with an original canal access boat house, and a major renovation and addition of a 1912 Coconut Grove Mansion (received a Sustainable Design Award from DHT).
German born principal, Sebastian Eilert AIA, LEED AP+ has been awarded, among others, the Historic Preservation, Sustainable Design Architect of the Year, and Young Architect of the Year award from the AIA Miami and honorary Emerging Green Builder from the University of Miami. Mr. Eilert was adjunct professor at the University of Miami and a frequent team member of the AIA National SDAT program.
Precision, quality, and dedication to timely completion distinguish Sebastian Eilert Architecture from its competitors… the German Way. Find more projects, and contact Sebastian Eilert Architecture to start your own project, on http://www.SebastianEilert.com
Filed under: design, Hot Topic, Landscaping, Sustainable Living | Tags: Architect, architecture, BBQ, design, environment, hot topic, Miami, outdoor living, Sebastian Eilert, Sebastian Eilert Architecture, shade, south florida
area.
What is a freestanding BBQ?
A freestanding BBQ is a unit that is not attached to any structure. They can be operated using either propane tanks or charcoal. Many of these have wheels, so they can be moved around easily and stored away when not in use. For smaller areas, these units are ideal. They can be situated just about anywhere for outdoor use and do not depend on the architecture of a home to determine their placement.
Freestanding BBQs come in different sizes and price ranges, offering everything from a basic grill to features such as side burners, smokers, dual fuel (charcoal and gas), etc. A BBQ should be chosen based on the amount of use it will receive, what sorts of foods will be cooked on it, and cooking preference—charcoal fire or gas.
What is a built-in BBQ?
A built-in BBQ is incorporated into a structure, whether the home’s exterior wall or a separate outdoor living area. Most built-in BBQs are “hard-plumbed” into the home’s existing gas system for convenience, eliminating the need for tank changes.
The architecture of a home dictates how easily this can be accomplished and may require the help of a professional architect to ensure an aesthetic and code-compliant addition.
As with freestanding BBQs, a built-in can be as simple as a charcoal pit with a grill. These are convenient if used infrequently, or the homeowners prefer the stronger smoky taste charcoal imparts.
For those looking for precision in their grilling or ease of cleaning, gas units are available with various options and levels of complexity.
Patio shade covering options
In the hot Florida sun, patio coverings are essential to get the most out of outdoor spaces. The shade provided by a well-placed covering can increase the number of hours every day spent outdoors, depending on factors such as existing tree cover and directional exposure. A patio on the north side of a home will receive more shade cast by the house than on the western side. Believe it or not, even the insulation built into the house’s walls can help determine the outdoor temperature next to the home.
What types of patio coverings are available for a BBQ area?
Luckily, there are patio shade coverings to fit every budget. Which cover is chosen will depend on the amount of shade needed and other factors such as neighborhood covenants, the home’s existing architecture, and the primary function of the outdoor space.
These options include pergolas, awnings, canopies, thatched roofs, and solar screens. Each of these has advantages and can add to the functionality of an outdoor space.
Ready to start your own project? Contact Sebastian Eilert Architecture for your Architectural and Interior Design project needs.
http://www.SebastianEilert.com
Sebastian@SebastianEilert.com
Filed under: Building knowledge, Construction and Permits, design, Resources, Sustainable Living | Tags: Architect, architecture, climate, design, environment, hot topic, Miami, Sebastian Eilert, Sebastian Eilert Architecture
There are many different ways to increase the environmental responsibility of our housing and minimize the negative impact that new home construction can have. Whether reducing scale and minimizing possessions by adopting micro-living ideals or replacing appliances, thermostats, and lighting with smart, energy-efficient alternatives, we can each find some small way to make a meaningful contribution.
Here are a few of the most popular green, eco-friendly home design ideas that have gained popularity recently.
Passive House Design
The concept of a highly efficient home that minimizes unnecessary energy use through improved insulation materials and methods isn’t a new one, but it has gained traction and increased exposure in recent years.
The principles or standards that go into Passive House design are intended to optimize energy efficiency by incorporating elements like highly effective wall insulation, limiting heat transfer with superior materials, and heat recovery through specially designed devices built into the heating and cooling system.
The exterior walls of the home and the windows and doors must be made of high-quality material and constructed with exacting standards to ensure optimal energy use and conservation. Passive House design even extends to the physical orientation of the house. Windows which are correctly aligned to make the best use of available sunlight are central to some Passive House designs, and similarly thoughtful design elements make this one of the most popular eco-friendly design philosophies in housing.
Use Natural, Renewable Materials
Many more environmentally friendly building materials are commercially available now than they have been in the past. Sustainably sourced wood and plant products such as bamboo flooring are excellent alternatives to conventional materials. They cost less to produce, require less energy in production, and are free of any harmful or toxic chemicals that may have otherwise been needed for processing.
There are high-quality insulation options made from recycled materials and many natural options for flooring, wall coverings, window treatments, and interior and exterior wall paint. These green alternatives have the additional benefit of being free from toxic chemicals and volatile organic compounds.
These chemicals present in conventional building materials in significant concentrations can contaminate living spaces for decades and cause serious health complications. These sustainable options are not only better for our environment, but they are also better for us and everyone we share it with.
Less is More
The Tiny House movement started as a design response to issues raised by worsening climate change conditions. Smaller houses require fewer construction materials and are designed to optimize energy use and incorporate renewable alternative energy sources.
These houses require much less energy to heat and cool and are easier to insulate more effectively than larger homes. Though Tiny House living may not be for everyone, many of the principles can be adapted for more conventional living spaces and inspire people to be more thoughtful about the way they use energy, especially at home.
Putting Principle Into Practice
If you would like to explore tiny house or other sustainable design options, contact Sebastian Eilert Architecture to discuss ways you can reduce your environmental impact. Mr. Eilert is proud of his commitment to sustainable housing and would love to be able to help you meet your conservation goals.
Filed under: design, Energy Efficiency, Materials, preservation, Resources, Sustainable Living, Waste | Tags: Architect, environment, hot topic, Miami, Sebastian Eilert, Sebastian Eilert Architecture, Sustainable Living
Sustainable living isn’t just a good idea — it’s something for which we all have to share responsibility. Climate change continues to threaten our way of life, and if we don’t accept that responsibility and adapt our lifestyles, we will have no one to blame but ourselves.
It may seem like there’s little the individual can do to make a difference, but there are plenty of opportunities to reduce one’s carbon footprint at home. Small changes can be surprisingly easy to make and get much more significant benefits than most people realize.
Here are four lifestyle choices one can make that have significant environmental benefits.
1. Water Conservation
Reducing water use results in less wastewater that requires energy-intensive treatment to be made safe enough to re-enter the environment. Using less water can be as simple and easy as switching to a low-flow toilet, reducing a household’s water use by as much as 4,000 gallons of water in a typical year.
In addition to low-flow toilets, low-flow showerheads are also quite effective and easy to install. Take shorter showers or turn the water off when not needed for even more benefit. It’s also good to have your plumbing inspected to identify and repair any leaks.
Replace any older appliances like dishwashers or washing machines with newer models designed for lower water consumption. Lastly, traditional grass lawns should be replaced with more environmentally appropriate options like drought-resistant ground cover and rock gardens.
2. Change to Renewable Energy Options
Many places, including South Florida, have green energy options available to consumers. Changing to a utility provider that uses energy produced from renewable sources can go a long way to reduce the amount of fossil fuel or coal energy needed.
Additionally, installing solar panels on a home is an excellent way to reduce or eliminate a home’s reliance on fossil fuel energy. South Florida is well suited for solar energy use, and the panels have gotten much more affordable and easier to install.
3. Choose Recyclable Containers
Containers made of single-use plastics will end up in landfills, where they will stay virtually unchanged for thousands of years. Almost all plastic ever produced still exists in one form or another — much of it as pollution. Reducing or eliminating the use of plastics helps prevent making this problem worse.
Whenever possible, use glass or metal containers and reusable shopping bags, and avoid single-use plastic products like water bottles, straws, and many kinds of packaging. Avoiding prepackaged food is not only good for the environment, but it’s also good for your health, as these kinds of food tend to be highest in harmful preservatives and other chemicals.
4. Going Green at Home
Improving a home’s energy efficiency can be as easy as increasing its insulation or installing a smart or programmable thermostat. Use sustainably produced materials, and when doing renovations or remodeling, choose products that do not contain toxic chemicals, like paint with zero volatile organic compound content and flooring made out of natural, renewable material like bamboo.
Choosing a Sustainable Lifestyle
All of us must make a serious effort to reduce our impact on our environment. Though initial steps like those above may seem small, any consistent or permanent change for the better produces a significant effect over time.
Small changes can create more extensive opportunities, and as more and more people adopt them, they will produce more significant benefits. Inspiring family, friends, or neighbors to adopt a greener lifestyle by showing them how easy it can be is an excellent way to contribute to a larger solution.
If you’re interested in making some eco-friendly, sustainable living changes to your living space, contact Sebastian Eilert Architecture to discuss your project needs. Mr. Eilert is dedicated to responsible and environmentally-conscious design and would be delighted to assist you with your next project.
Filed under: Building knowledge, covid, design, Hot Topic, Landscaping, Resources, Sustainable Living | Tags: Architect, climate, design, environment, hot topic, Miami, outdoor, outdoor patio, patio, Sebastian Eilert, Sebastian Eilert Architecture
Most South Florida homes have some outdoor space to spend time in, since the weather is nice so much of the year here. But there’s one type of outdoor space that every South Florida homeowner should consider having (or adding) at their house: a patio. Patios give homeowners the opportunity to enjoy the space around their home, but there are several other benefits homeowners can enjoy from having a patio. Here are some of the most important advantages to consider for anyone thinking about adding a patio to their house.
It Boosts the Value
Homes with usable outdoor space like a patio are more valuable than those whose outdoor space is not usable. Add a patio to a home to sell it at a higher price. Sellers will be able to get more for the sale, and it may even sell faster because it has such a desirable amenity.
It Provides a Safe Place to Gather
During COVID-19 many people were not able to gather safely with friends because it was not safe to spend time together inside. For homeowners with a patio, they have a private place to socialize that is also virus-safe.
It Extends a Living Space
Since the weather is so nice in South Florida, patios are usable nearly year-round. Any family who wants more living space without having to do construction at their home (or move) can build a patio that extends the room it’s connected to. For example, building a patio off of a kitchen naturally provides extended space for dining, and families don’t have to knock down any walls or do extensive renovations for this additional dining room.
It Gives Kids a Safe Place to Play
For houses that don’t have a ton of private outdoor space at their home, their kids might not be able to play outside without heading to a park or playground. Adding a patio to a home gives them a designated spot to enjoy the outdoors, and they don’t have to worry about their safety if they are enclosed in a fenced yard or on the privacy of their own property.
Sebastian Eilert Can Help Transform Your Home’s Outdoor Space
Adding a patio to a house comes with a myriad of benefits. For anyone who wants help designing that patio and making it a reality — or completing other changes to transform an outdoor space — Sebastian Eilert Architecture can help. We are committed to sustainable and ecologically responsible design, and we can help homeowners create usable outdoor space that’s eco-friendly, environmentally conscious, and facilitates the enjoyment of the beauty of the world. Reach out to us today, and we can discuss changes a client wants to make at their home and how we can help. You can reach Sebastian via phone at 786.556.3118, or send him an email at Sebastian@SebastianEilert.com. We can’t wait to discuss how we can help create the living space any client has imagined.
Filed under: covid, design, Energy Efficiency, Hot Topic, Resources, Sustainable Living | Tags: Architect, architecture, covid, design, environment, Home, home office, hot topic, Miami, Sebastian Eilert, Sebastian Eilert Architecture, work from home
The world just lived through the COVID-19 pandemic, and many workplaces across South Florida and the rest of the U.S. have restructured as hybrid workplaces, where some people work from home and some work from the office, or completely remote workplaces — where everyone at the company works from home. People who are now working from a home office may want to ensure that the space they give themselves to work helps enable their productivity, focus, and comfort.
One way to make sure a home office enables their best performance is to focus on the decor. The decor of a space can greatly influence how they feel, and by incorporating different decor touches and changes, they can feel certain they’re spending their days in a place that makes them feel inspired.
Here are some home office decor tips that anyone can tackle on their own.
Consider Lighting Fixtures
How an office is lit makes a huge difference in how energized a worker feels there. A professional wants to make sure they have enough light to see their work clearly even on cloudy days or at night. An office should have a mixture of overhead lights and lamps on work surfaces. To infuse style into the space, a creative overhead fixture, such as a chandelier, provides plenty of light and also adds interest.
Pick a Great Chair
A home office chair matters because a person working will sit in it a lot. A chair must provide lumbar support and not leave anyone with a backache. However, many people don’t want a clunky rolling office chair in their space, since it’s not necessarily aesthetically pleasing or in line with the decor in the rest of their home. Luckily, there are some beautiful ergonomic chairs available that enable work without pain and also look beautiful in a space. Research stylish ergonomic chairs, then pick one that fits with a home’s style and also will feel great to sit in all day.
Don’t Forget the Walls
The walls of a room can have a significant impact on the way a space feels. Don’t just leave a home office’s walls white. Decorate them in a way that feels fun but also inspiring. Studies have shown that the color green helps people prolong their focus. So consider painting walls a fun green color or even choose a stylish green wallpaper to give a space life and help get more done.
Let Sebastian Eilert Architecture Help you Redo Your Office
For anyone who doesn’t want to tackle a home office redecoration project on their own, or think they could benefit from the guidance of a professional, reach out to Sebastian Eilert Architecture. Our sustainable and ecologically responsible design firm also handles interior design projects in South Florida homes. Reach out to us via email to set up a consultation or call 786.556.3118. We can give our initial thoughts about how to improve a home office, and then we can get started ensuring a client’s home office is a place that’s beautiful — and really helps them work.
Filed under: Air Quality, covid, design, Resources, Sustainable Living, Waste, Water Efficiency | Tags: Architect, architecture, cleaning, climate, design, environment, hot topic, Miami, Sebastian Eilert, Sebastian Eilert Architecture, spring, sustainable, sustainable cleaning
Spring officially began on March 20, 2022, and the seasons are changing. The arrival of spring means it’s time for homeowners to do a spring cleaning. Spring cleaning can help declutter spaces and make them feel healthy and airy as we head into the warmest part of the year. If a homeowner cares about the environment and wants to ensure they live in a way that has minimal environmental impact, one step they can take this year is doing an eco-friendly spring cleaning process.
To learn more about what an eco-friendly spring cleaning process entails, read our guide below. These green spring cleaning tips will ensure that the cleaning process simply benefits a home and the loved ones who spend time there, with as little negative impact on the planet as possible.
Clean Blinds and Curtains
There’s no doubt South Florida homes get a lot of sunshine — so much so that many people choose to power their homes with solar energy. In the spring and summer, the sun can be so hot it can significantly heat up any home, causing the people who live there to use more energy from air conditioning. To stop this from happening, people may want to keep their blinds and curtains closed during the day. Make sure blinds are dusted and dirt-free for the spring, so when they’re pulled down they don’t let debris into the air. Take down curtains and give them a good wash. That way they won’t only be dust- and dirt-free when using them to block out the sun, they’ll also look fresh and wrinkle-free, too.
Scrub With Cloth Towels
Forget paper towels for this spring cleaning. When people clean surfaces in their bathrooms, kitchens, and beyond, they should avoid using paper towels to rinse and wipe off cleaning products or soap. Instead, South Florida residents can commit to using only reusable and washable cloth towels.
Ditch the Chemicals
It may take some research based on a home’s complete cleaning needs, but people should ditch the chemical cleaners as they freshen up their space for springtime, and choose only natural cleaning products. Lemon juice can be a powerful cleaning agent for removing stains and rust, and baking soda also works to remove dirt, grime, and stains. White vinegar is a powerful agent for disinfecting surfaces, and essential oils can help sanitize spaces and make them smell fresh and invigorating. By not using harsh cleaning chemicals, homeowners can minimize damage to the environment as the chemicals spread in the air or get flushed down the drain.
Do You Want a Design Refresh For Spring? Call Sebastian Eilert Architecture
For South Florida residents who want to do more than just a spring cleaning to refresh their home this season, there’s always the option of redecorating or even renovating a space. Get in touch with Sebastian Eilert Architecture. Our company specializes in sustainable and ecologically responsible design, and Sebastian himself has been named one of the most influential sustainable designers in the world. Reach out today via phone or email for a consultation with Sebastian. We help homeowners have a space that feels clean, fresh, and good for the planet through every season. You can reach us at 786.556.3118.
Filed under: design, Resources, Uncategorized | Tags: Architect, architecture, design, hot topic, renderings, Sebastian Eilert, Sebastian Eilert Architecture, technology
Amazing rendering work images.
The Winners of the 3rd Annual One Rendering Challenge depict dramatic evolutions of architecture over time.
— Read on architizer.com/blog/competitions/one-rendering-challenge-2022-competition-winners-announced/
Filed under: design, Energy Efficiency, Materials, Resources, Sustainable Living | Tags: Architect, environment, hot topic, Miami, Sebastian Eilert, Sebastian Eilert Architecture, solar panels PV
Filed under: Hot Topic, Materials, Waste | Tags: Architect, design, environment, healthy living, hot topic, Miami, plastic, recycle, reuse, Sebastian Eilert Architecture, technology, Waste
Miami Green Homes 