Green dream homes are ready
02.10.11
In the Pacific Northwest, where Birkenstocks and baby slings have never gone out of style, a home that gets most of its energy from the earth and the sun and most of its water from the rain sounds like a green dream come true.
Yet, that's what's happening in Issaquah's showcase planned community, Issaquah Highlands. A public-private partnership is unveiling a 10 town-home project called zHome designed to mitigate all energy use with earth-friendly practices, and widely available as well as cutting-edge technology.
In addition to energy-saving features such as solar panels, the town homes use 70 percent less water than normal. Project designers also paid rigorous attention to environmentally sound practices ranging from building with low-toxicity finishes and recycled materials to installing rainwater storage tanks and charging stations for electric cars.
The project generally uses widely available technologies and practices, says Brad Liljequist, zHome project manager and Capital Projects Manager for Issaquah, which led the project.
Source: The Seattle Times
Carpentry house waits for buyer
27.09.11
In a charming neighborhood on the south side of Carthage, a home is waiting for a family.
Two years ago, the Carthage High School carpentry class completed a home at 2534 Stephen St., which has yet to be purchased.
The 1,985-square-foot home sits on a lot approximately 100x135 feet deep. It features three bedrooms, two and a half bathrooms, spacious interior design and a vibrant popular tree in the backyard. Ed Stephens, director of the Carthage Technical Center, said it's a wonderful home and a great buy at $149,900.
“If I was looking to move to Carthage, I think this would be my choice,” he said walking through the doorway.
When viewers of the house enter through the roomy two-car garage, they are embraced by either the full kitchen or the welcoming, carpeted living room. Or, viewers may enter through the modern designed front door, turn left and see the bedrooms. The kitchen, entryways, breakfast area and hallways have hardwood floors. Stephens said the ceiling fans, the doorknobs, windows and other fixtures are all top-of-the-line products. When viewers exit the house from the back sliding door, they see a covered porch and walkway to the garage.
Source: Carthage Press