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A fully-functioning, smart home exhibit has opened on the grounds
of Chicago's
Museum of Science and Industry. The home reflects "the lifestyle
of a couple looking to minimize home maintenance, maximize
efficiency and settle in to a space that not only is beautiful, but
functional." The three-story pre-fab, modular home features
innovative home technologies, products, furniture and has a Smart
Home Park offering techniques for urban gardening. Modular homes can
be fully customized, are factory built and can be completed
much sooner than a traditional build.
Michelle Kauffman, architect, incorporated five key eco-principles
into her design:
- Smart Design: full-home automation, high ceilings, abundant
light
- Material Efficiency: Renewable/recyclable materials, modular
- Energy Efficiency: green roof, solar panels, wind turbine
- Water Efficiency: low-flow shower heads, dual-flush toilets,
use of gray water
- Healthy Environment: non-toxic materials, no or low-volatile
organic compounds, water recycling, permeable paving materials
The Exhibit runs through January 9, 2011.
But what about a 970 square foot, 1 bedroom apartment, can it be
made "smart"? See what Joyce Wadler with the New York Times has to
say:
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/03/18/garden/18smart.html
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After: Kitchen has enhanced lighting in the ceiling
and under the counter. The peninsula created much needed convenient
storage and countertop work space. |
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Certified Aging in Place Specialist
(CAPS) Tom Schiebout, president of
Tomco Company, Inc. says:
"Whether you are
building a new home or remodeling you should always design with your
future in mind. Lifestyle changes - kids leaving, downsizing,
physical capabilities - impact how you use your home.
This kitchen no longer
met the needs of this retired couple. We worked with them to create
a more accessible environment by installing a single handle faucet,
pull-out shelving, appliance drawers and adjustable height pantry
pullout storage. A convenient pullout trash bin was incorporated to
provide easy access. A small work triangle was kept purposely to
help eliminate the steps necessary to prepare a meal.
We removed the separation wall between the kitchen and dining
area and added two large windows to allow more light to enter into
the kitchen area. Lastly we raised the adjoining sunken living room
as it certainly created an unsafe environment for this couple and
all of their same age friends.
The entry was opened up to allow easier access by removing a
railing from the sunken living room. In the future this couple can
build a short ramp to gain access as necessary over the one step
into the front entry."
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Tom and Julie Scheibout |
Tom and his wife Julie are owners of
Tomco Company, Inc. a 31
year-old design/build remodeling firm located in Andover Minnesota.
In addition to being Certified Age in Place Specialists they are
Certified Kitchen and Bath Remodelers and members of the National
Association of Remodelers.
AIP Business Pages: Contractors: Tomco
Comments:
http://blog.aipathome.com/aip-pro-tip-design-with-your-future-in-mind
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Your rants, raves, suggestions and stories are always
welcome...especially the raves! Seriously, tell us what
we can do to help you age-in-place, in your home, your way. Send your comments to
talktous@aipathome.com or click here to
fill out our online form. |
