Eco Friendlly Dream House: The Rosenthal Residence

1. Natural fiber fabrics made with safe or no dyes are used for furniture and draperies. Cushions are made with natural latex foam and down.

2. Solar shingles are low profile panels designed to blend with traditional roof shingles. The panels capture light emitted by the sun and convert that energy into electricity.

3. Salvaged stone was taken from a terrace during landscaping and installed on the dinning room walls to add rustic old world character to a previously dressy room.

4. Antique Doors from Italy open to the foyer, with an antique console, mirror and lamps made from 19th century candlesticks.

5. Reclaimed wood planks and beams supplied by California based company, TerraMai, were added to the ceiling, which previously was painted with clouds.

6. Recycled Lumber was used  to panel the library and build the fireplace mantel, which displays Emmy awards the Rosenthal’s won for the TV show “Everybody Loves Raymond.”

7. Energy efficient windows and french doors were installed, providing ample natural daylight without taxing heating and cooling systems.

8. Reclaimed Walnut planks were laid for the kitchen floor. New wood floors in other areas were all certified by the  Forest Stewardship Council.

9. Cork floors in the pool house are practical and sustainable. Cork is harvested by removing the bark from a cork tree without harming the tree.

10. Iron lattice forms a gazebo planted with wisteria and jasmine to create a romantic outdoor dinning spot protected from the sun and wind. The terrace is made of stone.

Other Eco Luxuries by Timothy Corrigan

1. Use paints low in VOC’s (volatile organic compounds)
2. Seek out organic and Eco friendly fabrics and colored with safe dyes now proliferating in the market
3. Switch to all natural home care products
4. Swap out you incandescent light bulbs for compact fluorescent lamps.

Images From Traditional Home and Timothy Corrigan