Be An Environmental Steward - 10 Small Ways

By Lynn Morris, Director of Communications for ASID
Entirely Design, Allied Member ASID

As we all know, being environmentally conscious is a MUST not a trend. With dwindling resources, overburdened landfills, a growing population, and energy and toxicity concerns, it's imperative that everyone do their part to help. Here are 10 simple ways for each one of us to be environmental stewards this year:

1) Shop locally. Food ingredients will be fresher and material costs often lower when fuel costs to transport products long distances are eliminated. There are some fabulous San Diego area Farmers Markets. They are competitive in cost to large supermarket chains and the produce quality is far better. Check out this link for one near you: http://www.sdfarmbureau.org/BuyLocal/Farmers-Markets.php

2) Turn off lights when you leave a room. Children are easy to teach but we often miss the opportunity. Closets are an oft-forgotten room. If remembering is a challenge, an easy solution is to install an occupancy or vacancy sensor in place of a switch. You can do it yourself by purchasing at a hardware store and the $20-40 cost pays for itself in just a few months.

3) Ride a bike. When you can, take a bike to run errands. An added benefit is the exercise you get and the fitness you attain. Instead of a drive to the park or beach, take a bike ride and a fun tour of your local area.

4) Share rides. Is there someone you and your family can carpool with? Can you take trips to showrooms with a colleague? It's not hard to find someone to shop with!

5) Turn down the thermostat. Rather than heat your home to a toasty 72 degrees in the winter, put on a sweater and turn it down to a cozy 68 degrees. Save even more - up to 15% of your bill - by turning it down another 5-10 degrees while you sleep. An automatic thermostat can be programmed so you don't have to adjust it manually. You can acclimate yourself to a lower temperature by lowering your thermostat one degree per day. When you come in from the cold, 68 will be toasty and warm.

6) Maintain your tire pressure. Keeping the correct tire inflation pressure helps optimize tire performance and fuel economy. Correct tire inflation pressure allows you to experience tire comfort, durability and performance designed to match the needs of your vehicle(s). You can get your air tested for free at most tire centers; I use Discount Tire and they’re friendly and fast!

7) Recycle more. Don't empty your car into the garbage can in a parking lot. Take those bottles and bags to a grocery store for recycling if you don't have community centers or home pick-up. More importantly, consider everything you purchase and how it's packaged, opting to recycle packages you must buy, and change products whose packaging is excessive.

8) Insulate your home. Whether you are trying to keep your home cool or warm, ensuring a good seal around windows and doors is key. Check air flow from receptacles and switches as well; there are inexpensive gaskets at hardware stores that fix them quickly. Be sure your dryer vents, chimneys, and other access points are also insulated. How about a blanket on your hot water heater and hot water pipes? It will keep the water hot longer, and save money on re-heating.

9) Use energy efficient bulbs. Compact fluorescent bulbs save over 50% of the energy used by incandescent bulbs. With better lighting, dimmability, recycling ability (Home Depot), and energy savings, what's not to love? SDG&E offers instant rebates to purchase at Dixieline so the cost per bulb is about $0.50. With nearly three times the life of incandescent bulbs, that's more than double the savings.

10) Compost. Whether you have a large yard or a small one, placing yard waste into a compost bin is easy and the space required for a small bin is about 24” in diameter. The resulting mixture will provide fabulous fertilizer for your pots and garden; mine does! There are many companies that sell compost bins, or you can make your own. Indoor composting is now easy, small scale and attractive. Check out the available products on-line when you Google “kitchen composting”. While not advocating a specific product, www.Amazon.com has a variety of kitchen composting pots that are very nice and competitively priced.

Lynn Morris is the principal designer for A Touch of Tradition Home & Garden Shop, a full service design studio & furnishings, lighting & accessory shop.   From fabrics, window coverings, ready-made and custom furnishings, to fabulous lighting and accessories, TOT-HOME offers something for every style of decor.  Lynn creates stylish interiors with enduring appeal and loves to incorporate classic, sustainable and luxurious details. Please visit her at: www.tot-home.com





Green Options in Hardsurface Floors

By Amy Ramirez, ASID Eco Committee Member
ReSource Floors, ASID Industry Partner

Thankfully “Green” is finally becoming a mainstream word. The green options amongst all finishing products are growing. However, many of these products have been “green washed”. Small steps towards being environmentally friendly are aggrandized for marketing purposes. I have actually been told that regular vinyl products are ecologically friendly because they lasts so long. Not quite. There are however some great options in the industry.

Mannington does have a sheet vinyl product, Relay RE, which is made with at least 35% recycled content. This may not seem like much but 20% of that is post consumer. They also have their Premium Tile Flooring collection that is made with content from post consumer drywall. Since the inception of his program in 2006 Mannington has reclaimed and recycled an average of 200 tons of drywall each year. www.mannington.com

Armstrong also has a number of environmentally friendly products. Migrations is a bio based VCT made of corn which of course is rapidly renewable. In addition, their Marmorette, which is their brand of linoleum, has been green before green was in. This material is made of rapidly renewable raw materials, linseed oil and jute, and contains recycled content, wood and cork flour. www.armstrong.com

There are also a variety of rubber floors that include up to 93% recycled post consumer material from truck tires.

These days there are many tiles that offer recycled content as well, however most of these are still pre consumer.

Finally, there are more options than ever if hardwood is what your client is interested in. The products containing the FSC or Forest Stewardship Councils’ certification is higher than ever before. In addition, there are many color and style options now available in the renewable products like cork, bamboo or eucalyptus.

Amy Ramirez is the Design Center Manager at ReSource Floors and has been in the flooring business for ten years. ReSource Floors has provided the premier full service flooring experience since 1989. We promote sustainable business practices throughout our organization by taking a holistic approach to the environment and our goal of sustainability. We are proud to say that we recycle most of the carpet and pad we demo from job sites, we have two LEED accredited professionals on staff to assist our customers in eco projects and we offer a wide array of environmentally friendly products in our showroom.

ReSource Floors Inc.
ReSource Lights
http://www.resourcefloors.com/
"Service with Purpose"

How can you turn your green expertise into green in your wallet?

by Lexine Schroeder, ASID Eco Committee member
Botanika Interior Plantscapes, ASID Industry Partner

Editor's note: These are Lexine's presentation notes from the ASID San Diego's Eco Committee's presentation “Green Your Bottom Line & Meet The Eco Committee” from November's ASID General Meeting at Illuminating Interiors. 

How do you turn your sustainable design knowledge and eco-friendly products into profit? 

First and foremost, you need to clarify what your green expertise is.  If you don’t have any, get some!  Free or inexpensive workshops are available through USGBC San Diego, CA Center for Sustainable Energy, and SDGE.

1)   What specific skills and abilities can you offer clients?  What experience and education do you have?

Your business card, email signature, and website should all include any certificates or credentials you have (Green Associate or LEED AP, or 3^rd party product certifications if you are an IP)

2)   How will these things benefit your client and the planet?

(Hard to quantify, so use measurable things, such as how much energy will be saved, percent lower air toxins off-gassed, quantity of recycled material).

3)   It helps to write a “Green Mission Statement” so that your offerings are clear.  Put it on your website and any collateral materials you hand out. 

Example from one planter manufacturer: “Our focus is to design and manufacture architectural elements in the USA using post-consumer recycled materials and sustainable methods.”  It can be that simple!

4)   You can list the things you do to support your green mission statement on your website too: in-office recycling, recycling packaging or demolition materials, energy-efficient lighting in office or factory.

In this process, be careful to avoid “greenwashing”, which is promoting a product or service as more environmentally-friendly than it really is. 

1)   Be realistic about what you can and can’t do for your clients.  It’s always best to under promise and over deliver.  Don’t risk your reputation with false claims.

2)   Do your homework; don’t just take a vendor’s word for it that their product is green.  Ask for concrete details, percentages (Ex: pre- vs. post-consumer recycled), certifications, or use products made of simple natural materials that are sustainably harvested. 

To paraphrase ASID designer Laura Birns from a recent talk on sustainability, if what the vendor is claiming doesn’t make sense, it probably isn’t as green as they say.  And if it stinks, it isn’t green!

Take advantage of other opportunities to share your expertise and be seen as an expert:

1)   Update your business Facebook page with sustainable solutions and projects (or LinkedIn or Twitter).

2)   For IPs -- Eco Expo contest at IP Expo in Feb. – greenest booth and products gets free PR in Design Perspectives newsletter.

3)   Designers, IPs and students: Write an eco-tip for the ASID Eco blog, get guidelines from Amy – if nothing else at least read the blog and get inspired/educated! J  Follow it.

4)   Start your own green design blog or email campaign.

5)   ASID newsletter Eco page:  Designers, we are always looking for articles on your sustainable projects; contact Kristianne Watts at kw [at] kwdesigns [dot] com .

6)   Civic involvement in green causes -- volunteer and brag on your website, social media, email campaigns.

7)   Put a case study (with gorgeous professional photos) on your website; list the benefits of the sustainable elements.

8)   If you do a sustainable project, or one that has sustainable elements, tell the press!  Local media is increasingly interested in eco-friendly design solutions.  Green is sexy.

Finally, many clients don’t think to ask for green unless you ask them first!  Ask them if sustainability is a priority during your first interview or on your uptake form.  Their health and safety is your responsibility.  They will thank you!

In summary: Clarify your green expertise (or get some!), state the realistic benefits, know your products, and let people know what you know!  The result will be increased profitability for your business that you can feel good about.

Lexine Schroeder is owner and lead plantscape designer at Botanika Interior Plantscapes, a boutique indoor plant service based in San Diego serving residential and commercial buildings. Her mission is to bring the beauty of nature indoors, enlivening spaces while cleaning the air and providing a sense of well-being to her clients. Call her for a free initial consultation at 619-729-5715, or visit http://www.botanikaplants.com/.

Designing with Plants for Cleaner Air

by Lexine Schroeder, ASID Eco Committee Member
Botanika Interior Plantscapes
ASID Industry Partner

Editor's Note: This is a re-posting of our very first blog submission, written by our outgoing blog editor.  Lexine was Eco blog editor from February 2009 -- September 2011, and has handed the torch to Eco Committee member Amy Ramirez of ReSource Floors, ASID Industry Partner.  Please contact Amy to share your sustainable design expertise at ecoasidsd@gmail.com

Rhapis palm

We all know plants are a beautiful enhancement to any interior space, but many people don’t realize just how much healthier an indoor environment becomes for human beings once plants are installed.

Poor ventilation and off-gassing from synthetic construction materials, furnishings, and paints all contribute to stagnant and even toxic air quality in today’s tightly sealed buildings. But according to studies funded by NASA, indoor plants will actively filter out toxic gasses like carbon monoxide and formaldehyde while simultaneously producing fresh oxygen and sustaining healthier levels of humidity. The studies also reveal that indoor plants eliminate many airborne microbes and mold spores, thereby reducing allergic reactions and symptoms of “sick building syndrome” among employees.

Ficus "weeping fig"

In his book, How to Grow Fresh Air: 50 Houseplants that Purify Your Home or Office (Penguin, 1996), scientist B.C. Wolverton recommends that at least one plant be placed within 6 to 8 cubic feet of where any person spends several hours each day (such as at a desk, watching television, or sleeping.) His research indicates that the best results are achieved by combining several different types of plants so the widest possible range of harmful elements can be absorbed and broken down.

Of the 50 plants studied by Wolverton, the following were found to be the most effective at purifying the air:

• Areca palm
• Peace lily (Spathiphyllum)
• Lady palm (Rhapis)
• Bamboo palm
• Rubber plant
• Dracaena “Janet Craig”
• English ivy
• Dwarf date palm (Phoenix roebelenii)
• Ficus (alii and weeping fig varieties)
• Ferns (Boston and Kimberly Queen varieties)
• Umbrella tree (Shefflera)
• King of Hearts (Homalomena)
• Lily turf (Liriope)

Rubber plant

Designers can improve indoor air quality for their clients simply by specifying the installation of more indoor plants, and by specifying planters made of non-toxic materials such as ceramic and metal.

Further improvements can be gained by designing lighting schemes that sustain plant life (full-spectrum lights producing 100 foot-candles or more), or by utilizing window treatments that allow plenty of natural light to reach plants. Air flow within homes and buildings can also be enhanced with ceiling fans to make sure indoor plants can access, absorb, and break down as many toxins as possible.

For more information on how plants help indoor air quality, please visit: Green Plants for Green Buildings

To read the NASA indoor plant studies, please visit:
NASA Indoor Plant Studies

Lexine Schroeder is owner and lead plantscape designer at Botanika Interior Plantscapes, a boutique indoor plant service based in San Diego serving residential and commercial buildings.  Her goal is to bring the beauty of nature indoors, enlivening spaces while cleaning the air and providing a sense of well-being to her clients.  Call her for a free initial consultation at 619-729-5715, or visit http://www.botanikaplants.com/.

"Down the Drain" Does Not Have to Be a Bad Thing

by Petra Rupp, Design Associate
CairnsCraft Remodeling, ASID Industry Partner

With our ever-growing eco-consciousness, homeowners have been flooded with new ideas to make their property more “green”. One of the greatest of these innovations is the Greywater system, which uses the water from your home to benefit your yard and garden. Taking “drought-friendly” to a whole new level, this system will use up to 70% of your household water in your yard, versus down the drain and into the ocean. The facts are simple: 70% of your household water is classified as Greywater (the remaining percentage is Black Water, or unusable)

• One hour of watering your garden or lawn is approximately 220 gallons

• The average person uses 140-160 gallons a day

• Less than 2% of the Earth's water supply is fresh water

Here's how to tell if your house is a good candidate for this new kind of recycling:

• Is your house on a raised foundation with a crawlspace under the floor?

• Or, do you have upstairs bathrooms?

• Do you have ornamental plants or fruit trees that need irrigation?

What you can do to start saving Earth’s most precious resource:

• Visit Oasis Design for more information on Greywater Systems: http://oasisdesign.net/greywater/

• The City of San Diego offers free Water surveys- you can call 619-515-3500 to learn other ways to save water in your home

• If a Greywater system does not suit your needs, bear in mind these other plumbing fixes that can make a difference:

• A leaky faucet can waste up to 100 gallons a day

• You can save 5 gallons by turning off the faucet while brushing your teeth

CairnsCraft Remodeling has years of experience in Greywater system installation, and we offer free in home estimates. Call us today at 619-818-9870, or visit CairnsCraft Remodeling at www.cairnscraft.com

The Glass is Always Greener....

by Robert Eugley, Owner
Mirror Shower & Glass
Miramar Glass & Mirror
ASID Industry Partner

I’ve spent the last 27 years in the glass industry, and, to be perfectly blunt, my industry has done little to promote recycling and even less to promote the use of sustainable products. If there is a bright light anywhere, it is our solid track record in creation of new energy efficient products.
 
Insulated glass units with low emissivity (low e) coatings on the glass have done wonders to reduce the use of energy and eliminate ultraviolet damage to interiors.  However, the seals on insulated glass units typically fail after 15 - 20 years and have created a new waste stream that didn’t exist before, whereas the single-glazed window glass that dual-glazed units have replaced was a permanent product, aside from breakage.

The window systems that house the glass have been redesigned with more efficient materials that reduce transmission of heat and cold. Solar energy collection is dependant upon the glass industry for the creation of high performance glass that allows absorption of tremendous heat without failing. Without that advance, the future of solar energy collection would have been severely limited. Recently, the industry has introduced shading systems that augment the work done by energy efficient glass systems.

Recycling is where the glass industry is at its weakest. Glass is recycled only at the wholesale level of production because this is the only time when the glass contains no contaminants and the waste is of sufficient volume to warrant collection. At the local level, recycling of waste aluminum is profitable enough to attract most shop owners. Shower doors, window frames and storefront systems can be cleaned up and readied for collection at a modest profit.

At our shop, there are an additional nine items that are collected and either deposited at the office recycling bin or taken to local collection centers, including computers and accessories, paper, cardboard, plastic T-shirt bags, beverage containers, tin foil and various plastics . What we do is still too little and we are constantly searching for ways to improve.

I’m a firm believer that, as a planet, we are grossly overpopulated and, since that problem shows no sign of correction, we had better conserve our resources, reduce the waste stream and aggressively seek more environmentally sound ways to live our lives.

Bob Eugley is owner of Mirror Shower & Glass, www.MirrorShowerAndGlass.com, an ASID Industry Partner. He can be reached at Bob@MirrorShowerAndGlass.com.

A Turn Toward a Healthier Built Environment

by Denise Colestock, LEED A.P.
ASID Eco Committee Member

It has become apparent that sustainable design directly affects human health and building economics in positive ways.  For this reason, the San Diego chapter of the United States Green Building Council (USGBC) will be hosting an ASID member this month to address sustainable interior design at USGBC's popular "GreenMeet" event. 

Laura Birns, ASID, LEED A.P. will speak about the values and innovations in sustainable design in the built environment. Interior design isn’t just about pillows and colors; it’s about efficient lighting, appliances and plumbing fixtures, eco-friendly fabrics and finishes, and innovative ideas about reuse and recycling. With the movement toward more efficient and healthy built environments, interior design has taken its place among the LEED rating system and other sustainable strategies.

Sustainable kitchen by Laura Birns Design

The USGBC-SD chapter warmly welcomes ASID members to join them at the chapter meeting on Wednesday, June 15, 2011 from 5:30pm-8:00pm at the Soledad Club (this a “dark” month for ASID general meetings). There will be appetizers and refreshments from 5:30pm-6:30pm and the program will take place from 6:30pm-7:30pm. For more information and to register for the event, please visit the USGBC SD website at http://www.usgbc-sd.org/ or http://bit.ly/kLrFmQ.


Sourcing Eco-Friendly Artwork

by Barbara Markoff, co-owner of Artrageous!
ASID Industry Partner

As design professionals, we all understand the significance of selecting and placing inspiring artwork in residential and commercial spaces. Artwork is usually added toward the end of a design plan once all of the furniture, wall treatments, flooring and other design elements have been completed. The art offerings in today’s market are rapidly changing, and green design has instilled a new direction for many artists. A newfound consciousness has led artists to shed materials that were seen as harmful to the environment and replace them with eco-friendly materials.

Interior designers and art consultants are placing works of art in environments that are not only visually exciting, but are 100% green. Art buyers are interested in finding artists who create eco-friendly artwork. Some artists are consciously using biodegradable and natural materials such as clay, wood, bamboo, kieri board, and fiber. Three such artists are Kelly Jean Ohl (clay artist), Polly Jacobs Giacchina (fiber artist) and Steven Florman (wood sculpture artist).

Clay: Minnesota clay artist Kelly Jean Ohl creates a series of organic shapes reminiscent of biological entities by rolling clay into textural surfaces and forming cylindrical pieces hung in a grouping. She also creates smaller organic pieces that remind the viewer of something found in a tide pool or discovered while walking in a forest. Each clay piece is hand carved, burnished, sanded, and fired multiple times.

Grouping of installation pieces commissioned for a residential client commissioned through Artrageous!

Wood: Local artist and architect Steven Florman reclaims wood on the way to the dumpster or finds wood from trees and bushes to create his wood sculptures. Often he uses scrap wood in combination with recycled metal. The glue Steven uses is Tightbond, an environmentally safe and solvent-free construction adhesive.

Circular wood wall sculpture commissioned through Artrageous! installed at Kaiser Permanente Medical Office Building, Mission Viejo, CA

Fiber: Local San Diego artist, Polly Jacobs Giacchina, uses the flowering part of local date palms as the primary material in her weavings. From very large date palms, Polly trims the stalks with the tendrils intact. She then soaks the tendrils in water, making them pliable and ready to weave into patterns. Once dried, the woven tendrils retain a stiff form that is rich in earth tones. For added color, the artist weaves in original painted canvas strips in a linear fashion using the same twining basketry technique.

Fiber wall piece commissioned through Artrageous! for Kaiser Permanente Medical Office Building, Vista, CA

Artrageous!, an art and framing company based in San Diego, has demonstrated a deliberate effort to seek and represent regional and national artists who are creating beautiful, handcrafted pieces in a variety of media that utilize earthy and sustainable materials.

For more information, call Artrageous! at (858)-452-7280, visit Barbara’s website at http://www.theartconsultant.biz/ or email her at bmarkoff@mac.com. Barbara is a corporate art consultant in San Diego and author of the book Becoming a Corporate Art Consultant, The Handbook for Corporate Art Consultation (available at Amazon.com).

Insulating Shutters: Going Green Is Good For the World and Your Wallet!

by Brendan Heisler, Marketing Assistant
Danmer Custom Shutters
ASID Industry Partner

Today, it's more important than ever to select products for your new or remodeled home that are environmentally-friendly and completely safe for you and your family. The right window covering can help insulate your home, keeping it cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.

There are many “green” qualities to look for in window covering products when remodeling or building a home. VOCs, or volatile organic compounds that pollute the air, are found in paints and finishes on most products. Therefore, you should make sure the products produce the smallest possible amount of VOCs.

Reducing the use of natural resources has been on many companies’ agenda for years. Synthetic materials have come a long way and now can look and feel exactly like their wood counterparts, but with more environmentally-friendly characteristics. These materials should be non-toxic, flame retardant, and water-resistant while requiring few natural resources. Also, the proper synthetic materials used in window coverings have been found to help increase the insulation value of your home.

While all window coverings help protect your room from the harsh UV rays of the sun, they do not all insulate equally well. Products are rated by the R-Value, which measures the thermal resistance of a product. The greater the R-Value a product has, the greater its capacity to insulate your home will be. Typically, thin blinds or shades do not have the same insulation properties as shutters or heavier coverings. Keep in mind that the higher the R-Value, the better your home will be insulated, therefore reducing home energy bills and environmental footprint.

For these very reasons, Danmer Custom Shutters invented the Thermalite™ Shutter Insulating System. Thermalite™ is the only 100% non-toxic, flame retardant, water-resistant synthetic material available. The material will not crack, warp, peel or discolor. Danmer’s proprietary finishes are water-based, environmentally-friendly and produce very low VOCs. With an R-Value 3 times greater than wood, Thermalite™ has 3 times the insulation of typical wood shutters, reducing your home energy bills by up to 35%.

Green Tip: Selecting the right building materials will help the environment, keep your family safer, and keep more money in your pocket. Make sure to verify “green” claims from other companies about their products.

For more information about green shutters and window coverings please visit http://www.danmer.com/about/environmental.asp.

Lemons, Peas and Beets, Oh My!

by Denise Colestock, LEED A.P., ASID Eco Committee Member

When life gives you a lemon tree, sell the lemons! That is exactly what San Diego's Washington Elementary is doing with their brand new edible garden. Rebuild Global worked diligently over the past year to design and build an edible garden that the students could use for their enjoyment as well as the enjoyment of their customers in the Little Italy farmer's market.

It has been over a year since the winning proposal from the Rebuild Global design competition began its implementation of school gardens in two San Diego schools. Both schools, Washington and Sherman Elementary, have seen the beginning of an edible journey through vegetables, fruits and native vegetation. The students have enjoyed their participation in the process of selecting the plants and designing the gardens and Rebuild Global has enjoyed bringing a little bit of nature to their lives.

Both schools are on their way to a complete garden. The plans include a sustainable outdoor kitchen for Washington Elementary and a shipping container structure for Sherman Elementary which will be their kitchen and storage unit. This second phase for both schools is in the fundraising and donation (garden tools and green houses) stage. If you or someone you know can help in any way, please contact Denise Colestock at dcolestock@rebuildglobal.org. For more information about the garden project or Rebuild Global, please visit http://www.rebuildglobal.org/.

The following is a reprint of Denise's initial post about the Rebuild Global school projects, originally posted here in September, 2010:

Get Outside!  Bees, Seeds and Kids, Oh My! 
by Denise Colestock, LEED A.P., ASID Eco Committee Member

Ever wonder how we can get our children to reconnect with nature? Eat healthy? Learn about sustainability? Rebuild Global has taken on that challenge by implementing a plan to build sustainable school gardens and structures throughout San Diego.

Rebuild Global is a non-profit organization which strives to create an environmentally and socially responsible world community. We collaborate as designers, organizations, city entities and creative individuals to work on projects and community building where it is unavailable and needed most.

Through our yearly design competition, ProjectFIND, Rebuild Global found a winning entry that would do just that. Taylor Scherner, a local designer, submitted the School Garden Network project which won the hearts of our judges, members and schools. Her project proposed the implementation of a sustainable garden and kitchen structure in all schools across San Diego County to teach children about local, healthy eating and sustainable design. We are well on our way to implementing our first two at Sherman Heights Elementary and Washington Elementary in downtown San Diego.

Sherman Heights Elementary, located in the Barrio Logan neighborhood, will be receiving a shipping container donated by Dole and designed pro bono by Kevin deFreitas, Architect. The shipping container will act as the kitchen where local cooks can teach the children how to cook and eat the fruits of their labor.

Washington Elementary, located in the Little Italy neighborhood, will be receiving a sustainable outdoor kitchen and host a booth in the Little Italy weekend farmers market where the children can sell some of their produce. The money made at the market will go back into the garden to keep it growing for years to come.

When childhood obesity is on the rise and children are becoming increasingly disconnected with nature, there is no better time than now to get them to discover their outside world. By engaging the children in the growth of plants and food, they will be able to understand where their food comes from and how it nurtures their bodies. They will gain an appreciation for it and an understanding of the importance of sustainable growth.

We will be breaking ground on both schools by the end of October and implementing the gardens in various stages. If you are interested in getting involved or donating garden materials and tools, please contact Sandra Plaza at splaza@rebuildglobal.org.

To learn more about Rebuild Global and ProjectFIND, please visit http://www.rebuildglobal.org/.

It Ain't Easy Being Green (Or Is It?)

by Martin Lopez
ASID San Diego Eco Committee Member
Vice President of Marketing, Unique Carpets Ltd.
ASID Industry Partner

If you are not familiar with the hundreds of environmental organizations that exist as a “seal of approval,” doing their best to convince you that they’re the greenest, just know that by next year there will be at least 100 more.
 
Perhaps a term you should become familiar with is “greenwashing," which describes the deceptive use of green marketing to promote a misleading perception that a company's policies or products are environmentally-friendly. The term “green sheen” has similarly been used to describe organizations which attempt to show that they are adopting practices beneficial to the environment.

The practical side of anything that is truly natural and good for the environment is the simplicity of the concept. We look for it in what we eat and how we shop, and now your clients want you to do this for them in designing their homes.

According to PR Week, a nine-country survey found that 85% of consumers around the world are willing to change their consumption habits to make tomorrow’s world a better place, and over half would help a brand “promote” a product if a good cause were behind it. The study also found that, when choosing between two brands of same quality and price, social purpose affected consumers’ decision the most, ahead of design, innovation, and loyalty to brand.

Manufacturers have identified the marketability of claiming their environment-friendliness, but the pollution generated by misinformation has reached confounding proportions. If you are truly interested in the environment, then you owe it to yourself to beware of greenwashing.

When did fibers such as cotton, linen, silk, and wool become new? The journey to a better world starts with the smallest steps. If your mind goes numb trying to make sense of exactly what part of what you’re looking at is “recycled content,” then look for the simplest solutions.

Silk comes from silkworms, and while the process is labor intensive, isn’t it better to use people-power? Cotton comes from a shrubby plant that is a member of the Mallow family. We grow most of it on American soil, and its versatility and durability are common knowledge. Sounds pretty simple, don’t you think?

Linen is spun from the long fibers found just behind the bark of the flax plant. These cellulose fibers are spun for the production of linen thread, cordage, and twine, and create one of the most luxurious fibers you’ll ever touch.

Then there is wool, which comes from sheep. They grow a wool coat and once (sometimes twice) a year this wool coat is sheared off the animal by hand. The shorn wool coat is called fleece, which is then cleaned and processed into wool yarn, the benchmark of quality and beauty. It’s not expensive, just better, prettier, and the right choice for our future.

Studies show that properly maintained wool carpets actually have a beneficial effect on indoor air quality and people’s health. Here’s how: Wool carpets absorb, neutralize, and do not re-emit common pollutants such as nitrous oxides, sulfur dioxide, and formaldehyde. Additionally, wool attracts and holds airborne contaminates such as dust, dust mites, and pollen until they can be harmlessly vacuumed away. A major European respiratory study (2002) of nearly 20,000 people at 30 centers in 17 countries concluded that wool carpets in bedrooms (in lieu of hard surface floors) resulted in dramatic reductions in allergic and asthmatic symptoms.

So, the next time you catch yourself falling asleep reading the labels extolling the “features and benefits” of all the synthetic choices out there, do something natural, something beautiful, something smart. Choose natural fibers, which are better for your clients, better for the world, and require a lot less reading to convince yourself they’re the right choice.

Martin Lopez, Vice President of Marketing
Unique Carpets Ltd.
7360 Jurupa Ave. Riverside, Ca. 92504
Phone: 800 547-8266 Fax: 951 352-8140
http://uniquecarpetsltd.com/

Eco-Friendly Tile for the Eco-Conscious

by Stephanie Duerden, Brand Experience Coordinator
Oceanside Glasstile, ASID Industry Partner

Ready to pair up with Mother Earth on your next home makeover? Recycled tile has gone above and beyond the grip of imagination. There is no longer a cookie cutter market for ceramic and porcelain tile (although the options are still available). Tile is now being created from a number of different resources. Consider the look you are going for and then consider the product that best fits your design:

Aluminum: A sustainable flooring option that's beginning to gain momentum is the use of recycled metal flooring tiles. Most often made of aluminum, these tiles are extremely durable, heat resistant up to 300F and don't hold fingerprint marks like stainless steel is prone to. The manufacturing process in creating these tiles is much the same as all other aluminum recycling. The metal is ground into small pieces then melted down and checked for impurities. Once the recycled material has been cleared, it's molded into large ingots, or castings, that are then flattened to the desired thickness. When made into flooring tiles, the finish doesn't have to be a shiny metallic. Depending on your styling tastes, you can also select tiles that have a matte or sandblasted finish.  Companies to consider: Natural Built Home, Eco Friendly Flooring, Elements of Green.

Glass: Glass is gorgeous to say the least. Its translucent nature and ability to provide an extensive color palette and multiple surface finishes make it a fit for just about anyone. Glass is also durable; it is one of the few materials that do not lose their strength or purity through recycling processes. Another wonderful quality of glass tile is that, in most cases, it is impervious and is acceptable for installation from floor to ceiling and everything in between. It also makes an exceptional pool project. Looking to add a bling in your house? Then glass is the way to go! Companies to consider: Oceanside Glasstile, Modwalls, Hakatai. . . there are many in the market, don’t be shy to do your research.

Bamboo: The environmental balance for bamboo is certainly positive due to the ways in which it is grown and harvested. Every year the parent bamboo plant develops new stems, so the stems can be harvested after 5 years in a mature plantation without decreasing the size of the forest. Bamboo is a very durable material; the hardness of the wood is deemed to be just a bit harder than American Oak. Thus, the floor can be sanded a number of times over the years with little wear. There is also the ability to choose a finish just like any wood, so the versatility of this material is another great attribute. Companies to consider: Moso-Bamboo, Cali-Bamboo, Kirei . . . this product is a little newer to the market so finding manufactures gets more tricky.

Cork: When cork comes to mind, durability seems questionable; however, it’s just the opposite. Cork is a very durable material that has a lot of give and holds heat very well. The tiles are waterproof and can be used in wet locations like bathrooms or around a swimming pool. Cork is a softer material, so some find it terrifying to see an impression left behind as they walk across the floor; however, like a sponge or foam, the cork returns to its original volume once pressure is removed. When it comes to design, the versatility is endless; you can maintain its natural coloring or add a dye element that provides opportunities for intricate detailing or full monochromatic fields.  Companies to consider: Habitus, Yemm & Hart Green Materials, Capri Cork

The Renewable Beauty of Bamboo Floors

by David McCowan
ProSource
ASID Industry Partner

Handscraped bambo
in Hickory finish

Bamboo floors have been all the rage for the past several years. Many designers and their clients understand the green aspect of bamboo and the good feeling one gets from utilizing a product that's so environmentally friendly. Bamboo floors offer renewable beauty combined with durable elegance.

A member of the grass family, bamboo grows throughout Asia from India to China and thrives in forestlands of this region. Unlike hardwood, which can take 60 years to mature, bamboo can be harvested at full maturity in just 4 to 6 years. The stalks are cut, leaving the extensive root system to regenerate for generations to come.

Vertical bamboo pattern
in Natural finish

Bamboo is the most efficient land-based plant at pulling CO2 from the atmosphere and locking it into the fibers of the plant. The only other plant that that is more efficient at sequestering carbon is kelp. This fact makes bamboo a great choice for the planet.

In the past, bamboo fell a bit short in the area of product style and selection. Fortunately, this is no longer the case. Today's bamboo floors come in a wide variety of styles and colors, such as traditional bamboo in either natural or carbonized color and with a horizontal or vertical graining pattern. In addition to the traditional looks, there are now a large variety of stained, handscraped, and strand woven floors with selections of varying lengths and widths.

Horizontal bamboo pattern
in Spice finish

If you haven't looked into all of the new options in bamboo flooring lately, we recommend you do so for your next project.

David McCowan, Sales Manager
davidm@prosourcesandiego.com
http://www.prosourcefloors.com/

ProSource San Diego
8485 Production Ave
San Diego Ca 92121
858-566-8100

ProSource San Diego North
1070 La Mirada Court
Vista Ca 92081
760-477-1780

Going Green During the Holidays

We liked this post so much last year, we decided to re-post it this year! -Ed.

by Phillip Dockery
ASID Student Member. Design Institute San Diego

In today’s eco-conscious society, many of us struggle with how to be good stewards to the planet while still maintaining our quality of life. This dilemma can be especially apparent during the holiday season. Let’s face it; many of our most cherished traditions can wreak havoc on the environment. A great example of this is the use of Christmas trees. Most San Diegans who take part in this tradition are familiar with two options: they can display an artificial tree that might be made of PVC, contain lead and be imported from China, or they can choose a live, fresh-cut tree that could be imported from Oregon and will decompose and produce off-gassing. Now I will confess that these are extreme worst case scenarios, and that each of these choices does have environmentally-conscious options, but I would like to take this opportunity to shine an Energy Star compact fluorescent light on the third, less-known option of live potted trees.

A live potted tree is exactly what it sounds like. It is a tree with a completely intact root system, allowing you to transplant the tree into the ground once the holiday has passed to be admired for generations to come. Not only would the tree add aesthetic value, but trees in general offer advantages such as producing oxygen, removing Carbon dioxide from the air, fighting soil erosion, and cooling by offering shade.

For those who live in an apartment or condo, please don’t be deterred. If you don’t have a place to plant your trees once the holidays are over, you still have options. Trees make a wonderful gift. You can give your tree to a friend, church, school or to one of our numerous parks located throughout the County. Christine McDonnell, owner of Adopt A Christmas Tree, says that for the price of the tree her company will not only have two singing elves deliver the tree, but will have it picked up after the Holiday and donated to a needy organization if you do not have means or want to plant it yourself.

Other great local businesses which offer living potted Christmas trees are the Family Christmas Tree Farm located in El Cajon, and Pine Tree Acres located in Ramona. Each of these three businesses offer a variety of native California species at a variety of sizes and prices, making it easy for you and your family to start a new holiday tradition that will add as much beauty to the world after the holidays as it did to your home during them.

Get Outside! Bees, Seeds and Kids, Oh My!

by Denise Colestock, LEED A.P., ASID Eco Committee Member

Ever wonder how we can get our children to reconnect with nature? Eat healthy? Learn about sustainability? Rebuild Global has taken on that challenge by implementing a plan to build sustainable school gardens and structures throughout San Diego.

Rebuild Global is a non-profit organization which strives to create an environmentally and socially responsible world community. We collaborate as designers, organizations, city entities and creative individuals to work on projects and community building where it is unavailable and needed most.

Through our yearly design competition, ProjectFIND, Rebuild Global found a winning entry that would do just that. Taylor Scherner, a local designer, submitted the School Garden Network project which won the hearts of our judges, members and schools. Her project proposed the implementation of a sustainable garden and kitchen structure in all schools across San Diego County to teach children about local, healthy eating and sustainable design. We are well on our way to implementing our first two at Sherman Heights Elementary and Washington Elementary in downtown San Diego.

Sherman Heights Elementary, located in the Barrio Logan neighborhood, will be receiving a shipping container donated by Dole and designed pro bono by Kevin deFreitas, Architect. The shipping container will act as the kitchen where local cooks can teach the children how to cook and eat the fruits of their labor.

Washington Elementary, located in the Little Italy neighborhood, will be receiving a sustainable outdoor kitchen and host a booth in the Little Italy weekend farmers market where the children can sell some of their produce. The money made at the market will go back into the garden to keep it growing for years to come.

When childhood obesity is on the rise and children are becoming increasingly disconnected with nature, there is no better time than now to get them to discover their outside world. By engaging the children in the growth of plants and food, they will be able to understand where their food comes from and how it nurtures their bodies. They will gain an appreciation for it and an understanding of the importance of sustainable growth.

We will be breaking ground on both schools by the end of October and implementing the gardens in various stages. If you are interested in getting involved or donating garden materials and tools, please contact Sandra Plaza at splaza@rebuildglobal.org. To learn more about Rebuild Global and ProjectFIND, please visit http://www.rebuildglobal.org/.

Three Simple Steps to Reduce Energy Consumption on Design Projects

by Jim Diez
Southwest Audio Visual, ASID Industry Partner

It is estimated that on an average power bill over 50% can be directly attributed to HVAC and lighting. If you are an eco-conscious interior designer, here are some easy steps that have a substantial impact on the energy use of your project.

Energy Efficient Bulbs: On average, most standard light bulbs burn about 65 Watts of power, sometimes more. A chandelier can use well over 1000 Watts of power depending on the number of bulbs. By switching over to energy efficient light bulbs, you can cut the cut the energy use of the lighting fixtures by as much as 90%! CFLs (Compact Fluorescent Light bulbs), use on average 25% of the power that a normal incandescent light bulb burns. LED light bulbs are a new technology that can be even more efficient, running on an average of 10% the power used by an incandescent light bulb.

Lighting Automation and Dimming: Lighting automation used to be an option that was only available to our elite, high-end clients. New technologies have brought the cost down significantly and made it an option that can greatly enhance the comfort of a home. Dimming a lighting circuit reduces energy consumption, and adds significantly to the life of the bulb. If used in conjunction with energy efficient bulbs, your client might not ever have to change a light bulb again! If the designer works closely with the lighting automation company, together they can create scenes that save energy and highlight the details of the designer’s work. This can be done by highlighting a beautiful stone countertop or illuminating art on the walls.

Total light Control: This is where you really start to make an impact on the power bill. In common areas where there are a lot of windows, suggest automated shade control to your clients. To do this you will rely heavily on the knowledge of your subcontractors handling the home automation and lighting control. If designed correctly using daylight sensors and timers, automated window treatments will greatly reduce the solar heat gain from direct sunlight. By doing this you reduce the demand on the AC/Heater, which is your biggest power draw in any home. This will also help protect the beautiful furniture and elegant flooring that you install in your homes.

These are 3 simple steps that will make a significant impact on the power use of any project. As we move forward into these eco-friendly times, suggest these options to your clients. Although it can cost a little money up front, in the end these investments into the home will pay for themselves and eventually even make money for your clients.

For more information, please contact Jim Diez at Southwest Audio Visual, 858-324-1704 or http://www.swavconsulting.com/.

La Jolla Home Gets Gut-Remodel for LEED Silver

by Kristianne Watts, Allied ASID, LEED AP
KW Designs
http://www.kwdesigns.com/index.html

The inspiration behind the complete remodel on Chelsea Avenue in the Bird Rock area of La Jolla, CA was to take advantage of the panoramic views of the La Jolla coast by adding a rooftop. In updating the home, the goal was to create a coastal, modern, yet simple feel by combining natural elements with novel design strategies. As the design for this modern home became more innovative with features and technology, it made sense to register this project with the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) as a Gut-Remodel in LEED for Homes; we expect to receive at least a Silver certification for this remodel.

We wished to maximize the space in this 1800 square foot home, so some of our design strategies included using full-height pocketing doors with laminated glass and zero reveal, wall-hung cabinetry for bathrooms, and simple finishes like ceramic tile, glass mosaics, and concrete countertops. This home has a modern look but incorporates natural materials to bring in the beautiful surroundings.

Another important objective was low maintenance and durability, which was achieved by specifying ceramic flooring throughout home, avoiding wood trim, and using aluminum-coated modern windows and doors.

We recycled any material that could be deconstructed, such as concrete, aluminum, and wood. New materials that were introduced, like the concrete countertops and glass mosaics, have 40%-60% recycled content. The existing cabinetry was repurposed at another beach house and the old doors and windows were taken to donation centers. The energy-efficient cooking appliances were reused in the kitchen, which made sense and saved from ordering new appliances. Another innovative design strategy was the smart home technology that controls all lighting, shades, security, landscaping, and media, making this home easy to operate even when away.

Some challenges with this project came with structural issues and water damage that were progressively getting worse, which led to extra measures in durability with water-proofing, pest control, and insulation. Another issue that had to be addressed was the raised landscape, which was over-irrigated and was causing problems on the structure and affecting the interior air quality. To resolve these problems, the ground was leveled and sloped away from the home to minimize run off. Permeable pavers were also added to cut down on the amount of turf.

This project was all about the details, both structural and aesthetic. The designer, Kristianne Watts of KW Designs, and the builder, Paul Spadone of Streamline Development, used a team approach to bring this modern beach style home to life while keeping the personal preferences of homeowner in mind and minimizing impacts on the environment. 

To see more photos of this project, please visit Streamline Development's website at: http://www.streamlinegreenhomes.com/project_la_jolla.html.

Green Leather!?! Yes!!

by Jeanne Latoures
Edelman Leather, ASID Industry Partner

Full grain leather says luxury, but it is also very practical! Leather is durable, breathable, easy to clean and a natural product. That should translate to “Green” right?

Not always. To consider a product’s sustainability, you must consider how it is processed. Leather happens to be a byproduct of the food industry. By using the byproducts of the meat industry, waste is eliminated!

The processing of the hide is key. A tanning process that is built mostly around water-based materials which limit emissions of VOC’s (Volatile Organic Compounds) is best. Leathers that are tanned solely with tree bark extract, i.e. Quebracaho, Mimosa, and Oak, are referred to as “Vegetable Tannage.” This is a great example of how old-fashioned techniques can be inherently green when compared to highly mechanized, industrial methods. Vegetable tannage takes longer, so many companies hesitate to use it, but it is a truly “Green” method.

European full grain leather is the best! In Europe, grazing land is limited. The animals live on well-kept farms where they are grass fed, cleaned and put in at night. This preserves the land’s natural plant and wildlife balance and produces hides that are largely unstained & unscarred. The natural grain is beautiful, making it unnecessary to sand off or hide any flaws with embossing. Additionally, because full grain is unblemished, it is possible to use translucent dyes rather than heavy layers of pigment.

Full grain leathers that are aniline dyed and have small amounts of pigment in the finish have a lifespan 4 to 5 times that of fabric. Therefore, the life of a leather chair, even in a hotel lobby, is extended substantially. This eliminates waste, both financially and physically. As full grain leather patinas in, it gets better with age!

Edelman Leather uses all of the practices above. All Edelman Leathers are Green Guard Certified. Each leather has been tested and approved. Almost all Edelman packaging and shipping materials are from recycled products and are recyclable themselves.

For more information please visit http://www.edelmanleather.com/ or contact Jeanne Latoures 619.274.3042 or jeannel@edelmanleather.com.

Staying Clean and Green

By Bianca Rennick, Allied Member ASID, LEED AP
Carol Spong Interior Design

When designing a space, we have so many materials available to us, from stainless steel to wood. Once the product is installed, how do you keep it sparkling? Many of the cleaning products available contain harsh chemicals such as chlorine bleach, ammonia, petrochemicals, and Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) that are toxic to humans, pets and the environment. Non-toxic cleaning products improve the indoor air quality of your clients’ home. While there are some off-the-shelf green cleaning products, it can be difficult to discern which ones are truly safe because manufacturers are not required by law to disclose ingredients.

Here are a few ways to clean using non-toxic cleaning products made from ingredients commonly found around the house:

• Stainless Steel and Baking Soda: Whether it’s a commercial grade stainless steel countertop or a teakettle this combination is simple. Use a soft cloth and 4 tablespoons of baking soda dissolved in a quart of water. Wipe with a clean cloth.

• Refrigerator (interior) and Baking Soda: Use two tablespoon of water with a quart of warm water to wash inside surfaces. Rinse them with clear water and dry with a clean cloth.

• Wood and Olive Oil: With wood furniture that was originally treated with an oil finish, use olive oil to dust wooden furniture with a bit of oil applied to a cloth. Be careful not to use on stained or antique wood.

• White Vinegar: Use as an all-purpose cleaner when diluted with 50% water.

• Vodka: Cleans chrome and porcelain. Use straight up!

With a simple trip to the pantry, you’ll find everything you need to keep your home clean and green!

For more information, please contact Bianca Rennick at:
Carol Spong Interior Design
858.453.1700
http://www.carolspong.com/

The 2008 Lacey Act Addendum for Hardwood Flooring

by Courtney Karlin
ReSource Floors Inc./ReSource Lights
ASID Industry Partner

In the past 6-8 months you may have noticed an increased trend in discontinued hardwood flooring products. A large reason for this trend is the 2008 addendum to The Lacey Act, which was first enacted in 1900 as a ban against illegal trafficking of fish, wildlife and some plants. The Lacey Act is actually the oldest wildlife protection statute in the United States. The addendum passed in May of 2008 adds additional illegally harvested plants, including timber, to the illegal trafficking list. The addition of timber to the Lacey Act made timber declaration laws much stricter thus inhibiting the hardwood flooring manufacturers from purchasing timber from individuals who steal wood from parks and protected areas, harvest without permission, fail to comply with harvesting regulation, or fail to pay royalties or taxes.

This legislation is incredibly significant for our environment and a number of other reasons. First, it protects our world's quickly depleting forests. It also protects buyers who abide by ethical business practices in importing wood from outside the United States. Additionally, it eliminates the influx of low-cost, low-quality wood flooring produced from illegally harvested wood. This is a huge step in protecting our forests from devastating deforestation and the inevitable extinction of some plant and tree species.

The Lacey Act isn’t the only way to ensure that your hardwood flooring is sustainable. Look for the FSC Certified label on your product and log on to their website, http://www.fsc.org/, to track the chain of custody. FSC ensures that the manufacturers are not only getting their timber legally, but also in a sustainable and managed way.

To learn more about the Lacey Act or to see the eco friendly hardwood options available come visit ReSource Floors at http://www.resourcefloors.com/ or call 858-536-8577. ReSource Floors is committed to our environment and a sustainable future; we can assist you in choosing the most sustainable products for your space.

The Color of Art is "Green"

Sharon Burns ASID, CID
Art Consultants + Design
ASID Eco Committe Member

As Designers, let’s think about selecting “green art” in our next projects. You know I’m not talking about the color green (although colors of green are beautiful as well), but sustainable art! There are so many creative ways to bring eco-friendly art into your client’s home or business….just think outside of the toxic landfill box! Here are some helpful suggestions:

• When working with your framer, ask to use acid-free adhesives & glues. Ask if or request that they recycle glass, matboard, and moldings.

• Select frame moldings that are manufactured with earth-friendly practices such as Nurre Caxton’s EcoCare-Blackwood at http://www.nurrecaxton.com/ which uses water-based stains. Almost all frame molding companies have sustainable frames to select from.

• Specify matboards that are 100% renewable rag cotton or recycled fiber.

• Choose graphic artists and printmakers that are developing and using non-toxic, non-polluting new methods that are safer and healthier.

• Select artists who use scrap metal and discarded industrial waste or ordinary junk to design creative new forms of art; the results are stunning to say the least!

• Choose enamellers and ceramic artists using non-toxic and sustainable methods & pigments.

• Select tapestry and fiber art makers who use natural fibers and ecological themes, or other artists who create installations of environmental interest.

• Choose painters and sculptors who use organic, natural, sustainable, recycled materials, digital methods, and no chemical solvents.

• Seek out crafts-artists working with natural and organic materials.

• Specify photography exploring the natural and social environment.

• To light your art, select warm white LED picture lights such as those found at House of Troy http://www.houseoftroy.com/
Enjoy working with the thought of providing ‘green’ art. Do something artistically innovative to help our big blue planet!

For more information, please contact:

Sharon Burns ASID, CID
Art Consultants + Design
http://www.artconsultantsdesign.com/
5580 La Jolla Blvd. #428
La Jolla, CA 92037