Holistic Interior Designs

Sustainable Homes Workshop, Northern Ireland

2010-03-07T18:16:00.001Z

www.sustainablehomeworkshop.com

Coming up, a construction masterclass for The Building Industry & Self Builders Friday 16th and Saturday 17th April 2010 Lough Neagh Discovery Centre, Oxford Island, Northern Ireland.

Sustainability consultants Tara and Michael built their own sustainable home in 2009, using local builders and suppliers. They want to share their experience of building the house and their contacts in the industry to help you understand what is involved. They have organised a comprehensive workshop to help short cut the process ahead of you in thinking through how you can build the dream sustainable house with as little pain as possible. Save money, get tips on dealing with the professionals, understand the range of products and services that are available to help you, and assess which products and technologies are best suited to your budget and aspirations.

The Friday workshop is organised for the building industry to help you understand the latest best practice in sustainable homes, the challenges in being able to upscale your abilities for the future, and to identify who you can work with to ensure success in what you are offering. The leading experts in the field are here to guide you and challenge you.

The Saturday workshop is for everyone thinking of building a new house or renovating an existing house. It’s packed with stories, tips, advice on what to use and how to work with the professionals to ensure your dream is realised at a cost you can afford and in a way that will get you the house you will be happy and super-comfortable in. Your dream home is available when you know where to look and what to ask for. Come along to the workshop to get the insider knowledge that will save you money, effort, and time.

Blog Action Day for Climate Change

2009-10-15T13:42:00.003+01:00

What steps can you take in the home to combat climate change?

1. Make the most of natural daylight
2. Save energy
3. Top 10 Eco Home Tips
4. Eco Home Design - What you should know
5. 10 Solutions for Climate Change

What are you waiting for, make a weekly pledge to change your life to be greener. Together we can help combat climate change and protect the future.

Blog Action Day

2009-09-24T08:59:00.000+01:00

Climate change affects us all and it threatens more than the environment. It threatens to cause famine, flooding, war, and millions of refugees.

Given the urgency of the issue of climate change and the upcoming international climate negotiations in Copenhagen this December, we think the blogosphere has the unique opportunity to mobilize millions of people around expressing support for finding a sustainable solution to the climate crisis.

Clever Kitchen

2009-08-25T12:37:00.003+01:00

Space saving, waste frugal & intelligent design! Known as the 'Flow Kitchen' this US based company have excelled with sustainability, design & functionality. With an in built grey water system to keep integrated plants topped up, this is much more than a gimmick. It's just plain sensible.

Read more about the Flow Kitchen here

Find out about your kitchen and eco design here

Is hemp stronger than concrete?

2009-08-25T12:17:00.003+01:00

Introducing Hemcrete® made by British company Lhoist Group. A carbon negative product, yes that's right the amount of CO2 in farming & harvesting is more than what is released during manufacture.

Not only does it boast that advantage, it's 100% recyclable, can be used for walls, flooring & insulation, 7 times the strength of concrete, doesn't crack as much, is waterproof, fireproof, rot proof and is half the weight of concrete.

What more could you want!

Read more about eco building materials here

Killer Candles?

2009-08-24T08:08:00.001+01:00

Bravo to the Daily Mail and a recent story about candles, chemicals and health.

"The annual conference of the American Chemical Society has let it be known that scented candles made from paraffin wax give off toluene, benzene, and a host of other toxins linked to asthma, eczema and cancer." Read the full story here

Read more about indoor air pollutants here

Non vinyl & adhesive free wall stickers

2009-08-21T11:54:00.002+01:00

Great way of brightening up a children's bedroom or study is with these non vinyl & adhesive free wall stickers. Brought to you by an Australian company 'Fawn & Forest', stickers by Mae.

Find out more about these stickers here

No garden, no outside space, what's the problem?

2009-08-21T11:46:00.003+01:00

A great way to bring more wildlife into the city/suburbs is by rethinking every available surface on a property. We've seen green roofs, green walls and now something a lot more accesible.

Check out these innovative brick plant holders

Hand Crafted Wooden Bicycle

2009-08-21T11:41:00.002+01:00

A rather fancy alternative to a carbon/aluminium bicycle frame. As an avid cyclist and environmentalist, this is just gorgeous!

Click here to view the full article from inhabitat

Share your views on Eco Home Design

2009-08-19T22:20:00.002+01:00

Part of professional development means listening to the people.

What is your experience of the greener lifestyle?

What are your barriers to going green at home or work?

What changes have you made to protect the planet this year?

Tell me all and share your eco home tips with the world.

Click this link to share your eco stories

Something to Share about Feng Shui?

2009-08-19T22:16:00.001+01:00

Do you have a tale to tell about Classical Feng Shui?

I'm looking for content to be published on my website from all the readers out there. What do you have to say about Feng Shui?

Follow this link to tell your story

Eco Design Fair 2009 UK

2009-06-13T12:44:00.002+01:00

The Eco-Design Fair remains one of the few places in the country to see and buy some fantastic design products directly from the makers. The purpose of these events is to promote and sell products enriched by their sustainable and ethical design and production methods.

Eco Design considering: Recycled/recyclable, Organically grown, fairly traded, Non-toxic, Low energy-consuming in production/use, Cruelty-free.

Products range from; fashion, home accesories, jewellery, organic food & drink, body care, technology and more.

Eco-Design Summer Fair WEST
Saturday 20th June 2009, 11am - 5pm
Westbourne Grove Church, Westbourne Grove, (Corner of Ledbury Road), Notting Hill
London W11 2RW

Eco-Design Summer Fair EAST
Saturday 27th June and Sunday 28th June 2009, 10am - 6pm both days
Dray Walk Gallery, Dray Walk, The Old Truman Brewery, Off 91 Brick Lane, London E1 6QL

http://ecodesignfair.co.uk/

POLLOCKS 'WORTHLESS' LIVE ART INSTALLATION: CALL FOR ARTISTS

2009-05-25T12:29:00.000+01:00

Pollocks in London are looking for artists wanting to create work in London between 22 and 29 May 2009. Inspired by the recession and compelled to create something positive, ‘Worthless’ is a live art installation that explores the value of material objects in the heart of Seven Dials.

For one week members of the public will be invited to bring their own ‘worthless’ items into the store, and have them transformed into pieces of art. The experience cumulates for the customer, when on collection of their item, they will be asked to pay how much they feel the new item is worth. A pick’n’mix of ‘worthless to priceless’ creations will be exhibited in the store from 1 to 5 June 2009.

If you will be in London at the end of May and are interested in taking part, please send Mary Nally of ARTISIT details of your availability between 22 and 29 May, contact details, images of recent work and short biography to:

E: artisit@gmail.com
www.artisit.org
www.pollocks.org

What's a cheap & eco friendly home gym?

2009-05-23T11:05:00.003+01:00

Forget air conditioned commercial gyms, with oodles of electrical equipment and mass produced gym machines. Go back to traditional ways and train your boy for fitness, by using your bodyweight. There is not need for fancy equipment, expensive tools or your car to drive back and forth to the gym. Reduce emissions, save money and help get our planet healthier by making your own home gym. How?

Bodyweight Training!

Dave Hedges of Wild Geese Martial Arts & Fitness Academy in Dublin has just released a new Ebook "No Equipment, No Excuses'. The name says it all, and it is as simple as that - use your body and work through a range of movements to get fit, in shape and to help protect the planet.

Check out this Home Fitness Ebook here

Also check out his Bodyweight Blog, the Wild Geese Martial Arts & Fitness Blog and the Wild Geese Martial Arts & Fitness website.

Little Book of Feng Shui

2009-03-23T21:38:00.003Z

Introducing my newest Ebook - The Little Book of Feng Shui. The practical guide to interior form in the home. Full of tips, techniques, right & wrongs when analysing your building shape, interior form and layout. It’s hobby Feng Shui, without the new age nonsense.

Click here to grab your copy

Antique furniture surviving the recession

2009-02-25T15:32:00.002Z

News just in from the UK, says that antique furniture from the Georgian period, and in particular mahogany furniture, is holding its value in the auction rooms.

That's great news when you compare this with more modern and lesser quality furniture, as this is becoming less worthy and with most not even being sold in the auction room.

So what greater investment than a period piece of furniture in the home. This helps reduce the need for new/virgin manufactured pieces of furniture, which in turn helps reduce the negative impact on the environment. Plus, if it's an antique, you'll look after it more and it could last a lifetime.

Less demand on the rubbish dump and less carbon emissions.

Earth Day 2009

2009-02-18T09:09:00.002Z

Earth Hour 2009 by WWF - Sign up for Earth Hour!

Don't forget to participate in this year's Earth Hour, coming up on 28 March at 8.30pm.

Sustainable desktop PC

2009-02-17T09:35:00.002Z

Thank to Inhabitat for reporting on this great innovation.

Brenden Macaluso entered his product design into the Greener Gadget Design Competition. What was so special about his desktop PC? He made the casing out of cardboard. Usually the hardrive/tower is covered in slick plastic, as it most electrical equipment. Brenden thought outside the box (groan!) and pushed how far sustainability and disposability could go. Featuring cardboard and more cardboard along with off the shelf PC components, this promises to help us all rethink.

Click here to read the full article

Feng Shui Resources

2009-02-15T08:40:00.003Z

Now available online, the traditional guide to Feng Shui, bringing you Feng Shui tips and free information. Find out about how to hire a Feng Shui Consultant or an explanation of the 5 Element Cycle. All of these Feng Shui snippets and more.

Click here to read through Feng Shui articles

Living in harmony on the land

2009-02-14T11:45:00.002Z

One of the most overused phrases in Feng Shui and environmental design. But what does it actually mean? Ask any Feng Shui Consultant to define this term and some may come unstuck.

Classical Feng Shui along with environmental design mut be used together to analysis your surroundings. In times gone by when Feng Shui was used amongst the ancients, they did not have cities with endless areas of tarmac, too much glass and little natural vegetation. So to adapt Feng Shui for modern times for a more holistic approach, we have to look at climatic design and how our artificial surroundings have an effect on us and eco systems.

Click here to find out more about what Living in harmony on the land really means in modern times.

Feng Shui Flying Stars

2009-02-14T11:37:00.002Z

The Feng Shui Flying Stars is the most accurate method of analysing your interior. Based on the Lo Shu square & the Chinese Trigrams, the Flying Stars will highlight strong and weak sectors in the home.

Each building orientation is different and will be one of the 24 Mountains siting/facing direction. A Lo Pan compass is used to take a reading from the back of the property to find out the orientation, from here Flying Stars calculations can then be applied to each floor in the property. A Feng Shui professional can then assess these according to the sector, location, room function and occupant. The Five Element Theory can then be applied to each room, to bring the Stars into balance. Creating potential for strong areas, and lessening the effects of weak areas.

Click here to find out more information about the Feng Shui Flying Stars

Sign up for a complimentary mini Feng Shui analysis

2009-02-14T11:21:00.002Z

For residents of Ireland, sign up for your FREE mini Feng Shui analysis using the 8 Mansions formula. This method uses your date of birth to calculate the favourable and unfavourable sectors in the home. Personalised to your own Kua number, this FREE Feng Shui report will show you how to apply the findings to your property.

Click here to find out more information about The Feng Shui 8 Mansions formula.

Click here to find out more about the Free Feng Shui Analysis.

Recycle less

2009-02-02T10:01:00.002Z

Recycling bins stacked full with cardboard, newspapers, plastic, aluminium cans, foil etc. Glass jars, wine bottles and pasta sauces stacked up ready for recycling. These are good intentions, but what is wrong with recycling?

We all know this term ‘reduce, reuse, recycle’. What’s being missed out is ‘reduce and also review’. Recycling is the last process of a product – think about what goes on before the recycling bin and try to adapt your habits.....

Read more from my latest blog on 'How we should recycle less' written for www.greenme.ie

Energy efficient light bulb delay

2009-01-28T13:30:00.004Z

On the 26 Jan 09 the Irish Times reported that incandescent light bulbs (conventional ones) won't be phased out as planned. Minister for the Environment John Gormley commented that the decision was made as the EU are now planning to ban them. So Ireland will drop back into the EU's legislation rather than follow our own cause which was 3 months earlier than the EU plan.

Comments were also made that if Ireland went ahead with the planned ban, that this would encourage Irish residents to buy conventional bulbs in the North - leading to economic trouble for Irish retailers. By bringing Ireland into line with EU, including the UK - this will prevent this.

It seems the environment has to suffer over the irish economy.........

Learn how to make the most of natural daylight here

New Irish Carbon Tax

2009-01-13T15:16:00.003Z

The Irish Independent reported on the proposition of a new carbon tax on anything that creates carbon emissions. So what does this mean for the people? Well whatever uses fossil fuels is heading for a penalty:

Vehicles
Home heating oil
Electricity
Gas
Products, goods & groceries that involve transportation (so everything that is imported into Ireland).

It's a great incentive to save money, by reducing your own carbon footprint at home. It's suggested that it will be introduced into the Irish budget 2010, meaning excise duties from December 2009.

To learn how to reduce your carbon footprint read this article on home energy savings tips and The top ten eco home tips

How much water do we really need?

2008-12-30T18:51:00.002Z

Data from the New Scientist in 2006 reported the following statistics. It's pretty shocking how much water is needed for crops. Water is indeed a valuable resource, and alongside all other enviromental hot topics, water seems to be forgotten.

1 kg coffee - 20,000 litres of water
1 quarter-pounder hamburger - 11,000 litres
1 cotton t-shirt - 7,000 litres
1 kg of cheese - 5,000 litres
1 kg of rice - 5,000 litres
1 kg of sugar - 3,000 litres
1 litre of milk - 2,000 litres
1 kg of wheat - 1,000 litres

Now, think about how much this has changed since 2006. Anyone care to guess? Plus this doesn't take into consideration different types of meat products, which are known to account for 18% of all carbon emissions. It seems the more food is processed, the more water is used. Go back to basics with your food and water consumption, cook from scratch, limit meat to a minimum and opt out of convenience food. All for the greener good.

Greening your printing

2008-12-19T18:59:00.004Z

This website has really inspired me today, pushing the boundaries of printing with a new font that helps reduce the amount of ink used.

Check it out at: http://www.ecofont.eu/ecofont_en.html

It's amazing how little circles could make such a difference. Get the ecofont from a download on their webpage above. Now that's green printing made easy.

New Interior Design Ebook

2008-12-16T17:44:00.003Z

Just launched the new Home Design Ebook 'Guide to Space Planning'.

Bringing you professional interior design tips for remodelling your home. Easy to download to your desktop, full of colour illustrations and drawings to help you make the step towards designing your own home.

PLUS, you'll receive 3 FREE Ebooks as part of the package...... Not to be missed.

Pass Up the Poison Plastic

2008-11-24T20:34:00.004Z

Just released today 'Pass Up the Poison Plastic - the PVC-Free Guide for Your Family & Home' from the Center for Health, Environment and Justice

Click here to download your copy.

The CHEJ quote "This lists the most common consumer products made out of PVC and safer PVC-free products including baby products, children's toys, electronics, and more."

Sustainable timber speakers

2008-11-23T17:42:00.003Z

A great way to avoid the plastic casing usually found in speakers is to invest in the Vers Audio 2X IPod Docking Station. Available in Cherry, Dark Walnut, Natural Walnut & Bamboo.

Eco Spec:
- Hand-crafted, furniture grade cheery veneer cabinet
- Energy saving power supply and components
- Paper packaging made from 100% post consumer content
- Energy saving power supply and components
- Class D amp – 80% efficient
- Uses most environmentally friendly bonding agents available
- Designed for disassembly; Most packaging replaced with recycled paper
- RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) compliant

Price:
Between 180-200 US Dollars

Save the honey bee

2008-11-22T13:02:00.002Z

Riverford Home Delivery, UK are helping the plight of the honey bee. You may not know but bees, and honey bees in particular are dying out. Pest and diseases are to blame, and although a little creature, without the honey bee it could be a sad story. Crops won't be pollinated and so our food supply will be reduced, without a food supply where does that leave us.

Riverford are kindly donating all profits from their calendar to the British Bee Keepers’ Association. The association help fund research into saving our bees, which is vital.

Send a cheque for £6.35 to Riverford Home Delivery to receive your calendar.

Must see - OnePlanetOneDay

2008-11-14T21:04:00.002Z

OnePlanetOneDay

Calling all British housing developers, housing associations, architects, interior designers, planners, design & build professionals and eduational bodies.

Are you ready to take part in OnePlanetOneDay - to create places and lifestyles which enable people to lead high quality lives within a sustainable ecological footprint? This is a must see if you have an interest in sustainable cities, sustainable economy and prioritising the environment.

Time: 9-5pm
Date: Wednesday 3rd December 2008
Address: The Room by the river, 99 Upper Ground, London SE1 9PU

Fibre optic wallpaper

2008-11-14T20:43:00.003Z

Pushing the boundaries of lighting and wallpaper, Camilla Diedrich has created this innovative wallpaper that combines both. The 8 colour range is called Nature Ray Charles Wallpaper and is designed with floral patterns of fibre optics to bring a soft hue of energy efficient lighting into your interior.

This would bring a unique feature to a dark area using cutting edge technology. Personally I admire designers who keep pushing through our understanding and view of conventional, design evolution at its best.

Window Insulation

2008-11-14T20:35:00.002Z

Here's a new product for single glazed window insulation. Introducing the Advanced Energy Panel Window Insulation by www.windotherm.com

This panel system fits on the inside of your single glazed window, mounting on the jambs or on the surface. The frame has 2 layers of film that have airspace between them which is said to triple the insulating properties of a single glazed window. The beauty of this product is that it does not create condensation.

Materials: Aluminium frame, weather strips, clear polyolefin film
Performance: 10 year limited warranty
Supplied: Self build kit or assembled

New design packages available

2008-10-21T19:11:00.005+01:00

Beat the recession with these handy design pacakges. Prices start from 300 Euro. View the following links for more details.
Interior Design Packages
Feng Shui Packages

Hard to buy for friend, family member or collegue? Want a unique gift that will never be forgotten? Look now further. Buy an interior design gift voucher or a Feng Shui gift voucher.

Available across Ireland, travel expenses apply outside of Dublin area.

Tai Chi Ireland - last few places for Autumn classes

2008-10-17T18:33:00.005+01:00

For relaxation, flexibility, mobility and strength.... I can personally recommend Tai Chi and Chi Gung as an essential practice and part of life. So take some time out of your schedule, book a course of Tai Chi and feel a lot better on the inside.

Jan Golden, the owner and chief instructor at Tai Chi Ireland is, in my opinion, at the top of the field in Ireland. Boasting 10 years of teaching, Tai Chi Ireland has a few more spaces left for autumn courses. I have been a student of Jan's since moving to Ireland, and have never met someone so committed and experienced in a range of Tai Chi styles and martial based practices.

Tai Chi Ireland, Lower Baggot Street, Dublin

There is a Beginner Weekend Workshop Nov 1/2. Covering roughly 10
weeks of tai chi over 2 days. An excellent way to slot into regular classes.
Price is 180 euro.

There will be a new class Thursdays at 7pm for Absolute Beginners. It will start November 6 at 7pm.

Thursday at 8pm and Friday at 6pm are Chi Gung classes. Feel free to try them out if you wish to experience the whole internal arts world. Chi Gung is
like the scales in music, an essential primer for superior movement and an
excellent energy builder. Drop-in classes are 25 Euro, a course is cheaper.

Contact Jan through the website.

Come and see me in Kilkenny - Eco Dining Event

2008-10-15T12:08:00.003+01:00

Hello everyone

I have been asked to speak at the Eco Dining event being held in Fleva restaurant as part of Savour Kilkenny Food Festival. I'll be giving a short talk on eco interiors and living - explaining the real meaning of going green.

Kilkenny Slow Food Eco-Dining Event

A Fundraiser In Aid of The Children’s O’Neill Centre

Monday Slow Food 5 course Lunch featuring the best of local fare
Organic Bubbles On arrival
Organic Wine Tasting sponsored by Febvre-Official Slow Food sponsors

•Slow Food Guest speakers on Eco Talks•
Malcolm Noonan-Green Party on Organic Allotments
Joe Condon - Slow Food Irish Organic Omega Beef
Abbas Ghadimi-Homeopath & Author of “Excuse me! Is this your body?”
Nicola Elizabeth Jones - Eco Interior Design & Sustainable Living

Go Slow For Children!
•Slow Food Children’s Menu-delish!
•Children’s Slow Art & Face Painting
•2 Course €10.00 3 Course €12.50

Date: Bank Holiday Monday 27th October

Time: 1 to 5 pm - Eco Talks & Tasting’s Throughout

Location: Fleva, High Street, Kilkenny

Price: €35

Bookings: 056 7770021

Would love to see you!
Regards
Nicola

The Green Building Pyramid

2008-10-13T17:36:00.002+01:00

On behalf of Green Builder® Media:

Green Builder® Media Offers Important Educational Tool—The Green Building Pyramid

Green Builder Media, publisher of highly esteemed Green Builder® magazine, has released a new educational tool that provides building professionals and homeowners solutions to increase the sustainability of their homes.

The Green Building Pyramid, modeled after the familiar food pyramid used for decades by the USDA, breaks down the complex choices facing people who want to improve the energy performance and resource efficiency of their houses.

Shades of green are used to depict the impact of the options presented, from deep green (which represents high impact choices that can be selected during the construction process) to light green (which represents items that can be added to a home once it has been constructed).

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

My thoughts are just brilliant and about time! I hope this becomes a widespread tool that enables everyone to take a look at their own homes and how to conserve energy and make sustainable choices. Great!

Nifty ways for your office printer

2008-10-13T16:25:00.003+01:00

Treehugger have just released a fab article with green ways for printing. It provides links to free and paid for software tools that scrub out all the garble from internet & email printing. Saving ink & energy. The more responsible way to print - if you really have to.

Title: Save Paper, Save Money: 5 Free Software Downloads That Spare Your Printer

For more eco home office ideas view the following article series:

Office style & furniture

Electronics, paper & office supplies

Irish landfill at a critical stage

2008-10-07T16:33:00.002+01:00

On the 7 October 2008, the Irish Independent reported on the EU laws that govern the amount of landfill waste we as a nation use. The bad news is that the 2010 deadline is fast approaching and unless we reduce the amount of waste we are throwing into landfill, Ireland is faced with massive fines. And this is biodegradable waste in particular; food, garden, wood, paper and textiles.

The fines are quoted as between 180 to 270 million Euro per year, if we do not reach the target set by the EU Landfill Directive. The paper also reported that it is not simply the consumers that are at fault. There are not large scale organic disposal facilities across Ireland, and there are currently no plans in the pipeline. The government plan to increase landfill and incineration taxes, so that recycling is the better option.

So why are we not recycling our organic waste?

What are the barriers to recycling & correct disposal of organic waste in Ireland?

Remember the power of one, it's a corny Irish phrase that has been overused, but it carries some meaning. Be mindful of what you are throwing away and the damage it could be causing. Everyone who owns their own garden should have a compost. Avoid using the black bins for anything that is biodegradable or that can be recycled. And maybe we can all do our bit to help.

Use your blog to help carbon emissions

2008-10-02T16:08:00.005+01:00

Your blog can help offset carbon emissions. Visit www.350.brighterplanet.com and copy the html code to post the badge on your blog/website and they'll offset 350 pounds of carbon in your name! As they explain "That's like flicking off 100 lightbulbs for a day. Or going two full weeks without your car!"

Get going eco bloggers!

The gathering succcess of www.greenme.ie

2008-09-29T23:59:00.003+01:00

Some nice local press coverage to share with you. As you all know I am one of the Eco Bloggers for www.greenme.ie

The Sunday Business Post reported on the gathering success of the Irish website 'Greenme' as a one stop shop & blog machine for all things local and eco. I can whole heartedly recommend and praise Greenme's efforts in bringing sustainable awareness and access to the depths of Ireland.

View the article in the link below and spot my few seconds of published glory. Thanks to Gina for a mention.

Title: No-guilt guide to going green
Date: 28 September 2008
Publication: The Sunday Business Post

The London Design Festival 08 - Card Cafe

2008-09-29T07:30:00.003+01:00

Design Boom reported on an interesting feature at the recent Design Festival in London.

Designers: b3 Designers, British interior architectural consultants

Especially for the festival, this cardboard cafe became a hot spot! Using a card construction of brick like boxes, they created a temporary bar using individual boxes and a glue gun. They took the cardboard experience one step further with cardboard cups. This is an ingenius way of highlighting ways materials can be reused and recycled. Eco concepts are progressing, designers are thinking outside of the box (pun intended!). Whilst there are obvious issues with the durability of the structure and the glue used - the statement is clear, a new vision is needed.

The railway carriage salvaged home

2008-09-29T07:21:00.003+01:00

You all know my love for using waste materials in innovative ways to combat landfill issues. Fresh from The Daily Telegraph came an inspiring article about a disused railway carriage that has been renovated and turned into a beautiful and admirable home.

Read the full story here...... "Eco homes: After interminable delays, our rail carriage home is full steam ahead"

Reclaim, salvage and reuse is an important part of eco design. It reduces the demand on our landfill sites by using materials that would otherwise be thrown away. It also reduces the demand on new materials during manufacture - saving energy from production and precious resources. An all round better choice.

If you are interested in this area of sustainability read my article on "Building Preservation", Eco Design & reduce, reuse and recycle and Reclaiming timber.

Mini fruit & vegetable cooler

2008-09-28T11:58:00.004+01:00

Introducing the Eco Cooler. Made by hand this fruit and vegetable bowl not only stores, but cools. It's a micro version of the traditional larder. The terracotta bowl absorbs water in the bottom plate and as it evaporates, it cools!

The retailers state "As the water evaporates it cools helping to create the ideal cool, damp, dark environment to store potatoes, onions, garlic, swede and other root vegetables inside. Root vegetables last longer if stored 3-4 degrees below room temperature and in an environment a little warmer than a fridge. Fruit likes to be slightly chilled, but stored in the open air and light, so Eco Cooler also has a bowl on top which cools fruit just a couple of degrees."

Height: 250mm
Diameter: 280mm
Manufacturer: Wales, UK
Designer: David Weatherhead

Irish recession - Great for the eco world

2008-09-23T17:18:00.005+01:00

Well first off is that I think the word recession is a bit extreme, more like stabilisation after a taste of the good life. Can a good thing last forever? It depends on the definition of good, if the definition borders or greed or just for the sake of it then no, if the definition is more grounded then yes.

So how can this ‘recession’ be good for the eco world? Consider that people will have a little less available money to spend, they will spend more wisely and less frivolously, and from this the will take a look at their habits and see what can be adapted to the new climate. Possible and hopeful outcomes and their eco relevance are:

1. Focusing more on renovations, refurbishment and repair of what you already have
• Good opportunity to investigate healthier alternatives for your home decor
• Less consumerism

2. Doing more research and buying quality items for the home that last a long time
• Good opportunity to investigate more natural and sustainable home furniture, fittings and furnishings

3. Buying interior items that stand the test of time from a trend point of view
• Less demand on new manufacture, use of new materials, use of non renewable resources and less waste in landfill

4. Wanting to save money on the utility bills, increasing the chances of energy efficiency in the home
• Less fuel/electricity used throughout the home by understanding your own energy use through the seasons

5. Selling your home to its best potential by taking action in line with the new BRE ratings
• Less non renewable resources used e.g. adequate insulation and energy efficient windows

RSA Design Project Competitions

2008-09-22T09:44:00.002+01:00

Calling all designers!

The RSA have launched entries to the following design competitions - great news for the sustainable lovers amongst us:

A changing world
Products and services for a sustainable future
"Imagine the world in 2025 and the products and services we will be using in our everyday lives. Being prepared for an uncertain future is perhaps more important now than ever and products and services can play a positive role far beyond their own direct influence. This project, which introduces two different, but equally plausible, futures, asks for design outcomes forged from a different perspective and based on strong, human centred research for two market themes, Personal Care and Surface Covering. The aim is to achieve product/service solutions that would thrive sustainably in 2025."

Postage Stamps
Alternative energy sources & energy conservation
"With debate around many current sources of power, alternative energy may provide the way forward. Its development focuses on increasing the proportion of energy obtained from renewable resources in an effort to ease the impact on climate change. The aim of the brief is to design a set of stamps that will bring attention to this issue and promote awareness about alternatives. Contributions from designers, illustrators, photographers, typographers and painters, as well as collaborative projects, are welcome."

Get your brain switched on, creative juices flowing and help change our future with fresh and innovative sustainable concepts.

Biodegradable designer's cutting table

2008-09-21T18:03:00.004+01:00

Fresh from Iceland, a collapsible cutting table for design offices where space saving is a premium. This product has the following eco credentials:

1. biodegradable cardboard structure made in Reykjavik
2. water based Ink Stamp
3. natural hessian jute strap
4. flat pack saves volumes during shipping
5. less energy intensive manufacture than solid cutting tables

* laminate is used on the surface of the table

From the Sruli Recht studio, Iceland

Win an Eco Home from Grand Designs

2008-09-20T00:32:00.002+01:00

Can it really be true? Yes, The Underground Grand Design from 12 Oxford Walk, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL52 6DN, UK.

For an entry ticket of just £25 and by answering an easy question, this eco-friendly house can be yours. An ingenious way to sell your home! Will we see houses on ebay next?

For more details on the competion visit www.winthecheltenhamhouse.com

Well, I certainly bought a ticket and there are not any country restrictions. I've got my fingers crossed for my ticket...........

Have a look at the home on the Grand Designs link here

Timber versus PVC window frames

2008-09-11T10:14:00.003+01:00

I read an update from The Green Building Store yesterday which I am in full support of. In the UK, BRE have released their Green Guide to Specifications. A great tool for architects and interior designers in the industry.

The new Green guide BRE ratings contain the following:

PVC windows have been upgraded to A rating - where they used to be C rating.

Alu-clad windows have been downgraded to an E rating - which is below aluminium windows.

Timber windows with synthetic finishes have been upgrade to A+ rating - over other timber windows which have non synthetic finishes.

I stand beside The Green Building Store who question these findings. Snippet from their press release "We are certainly not alone in finding it hard to understand any rating system which can place PVC windows on a par with timber in terms of sustainability. Our Directors are actively involved with others in working at high level to question these findings and pursue a more rigorous and open approach to sustainable construction materials. Green Building Store continues to promote timber windows as the common-sense sustainable option for windows and doors."

Certainly some very interesting amendments, even on a very basic level timber can be chosen over plastic AND natural or non synthetic finishes can be chosen over synthetic finishes as better sustainable choices.

Lights out on a grand scale

2008-09-09T11:49:00.003+01:00

Everyone is used to me harping on about artificial lighting and energy use. Well to put this into perspective on a larger scale, I found the following article from www.sustainablelifemedia.com of interest.

The Planet to Save $140,000 a Year with Lights-Out Program

What this article shows is how large companies are saving a huge amount of money from simple alterations to their lighting systems. 2 examples from the text are:

"IT hosting firm The Planet says it expects to save 1.4 kilowatt hours of electricity and $140,000 annually thanks to a new program that powers down datacenter lighting during off hours."

"Last summer, Wal-Mart saved more than $1 million in electricity costs by turning down the lights in its stores."

So if these big companies are able to make small changes that save them money...... what's stopping you?

Read my article on Natural Daylight for some more ideas for your home.

Ebay turns green

2008-09-09T10:50:00.002+01:00

I wanted to tell you all about WorldofGood.com, a site where your shopping shapes the world.

WorldofGood.com offers a new and easy way to show the positive impact your purchase has on people and the planet. It allows you to shop by your values for products ranging from food & clothing to art & house wares.

You can choose to shop by:
- People Positive
- Planet Positive
- Animal Friendly
- Support a Cause

An excellent addition to Ebays services.

Rising water levels......

2008-09-05T19:44:00.002+01:00

If like me you were in Dublin, or the UK today, you will have experienced what can only be the heavens pouring down in torrents. Being a cyclist, it wasn't my most favourite day for it. However cycling by the River Dodder on my way back home, it was a far cry from the gentle river I was used to. It actually caught my breath as I wonder what will happen to the river banks if it rose anymore.

So I thought it quite ironic to read later today through the latest article on www.environment.newscientist.com. In summary it is estimated that the sea could rise by up to 2 metres by 2100.

Hmmm, I need a boat not a bicycle. On a serious note as the article explains, the forecasts need to be accurate so the right amount of money can be spent in preparation for this. Compare the above figure to the figure in 2007 of between 18 and 59cm.

Never the less of the amount, the cause is the issue. Simply ice around the poles is melting, leading to an increase in sea levels. Strongly associated with climate change. Do we need any more messages from mother nature?

Protecting the planet starts at home. Read my Top 10 Eco Home Tips for a step in the right direction.

Lights Out! Astronomy Ireland Lecture

2008-09-05T19:40:00.002+01:00

With light pollution a growing concern in Dublin, why not visit the forthcoming Astronomy Ireland lecture being held in the Physics Building of Trinity College Dublin at 8pm on Monday 8th September 2008. Albert White from the Irish Light Pollution Awareness Campaign will give a talk on the amount of energy wasted by poor lighting.

Admission: 7 Euro.

www.astronomy.ie

Bamboo privacy screen

2008-08-19T16:44:00.002+01:00

Carrying on the bamboo theme with a US sourced product.....

Yin-Yang Bamboo Panel
From 'The Nest Store' this lightweight 100% bamboo screen provides privacy where needed. This is a new theme for flat packing as it folds up into 7 inches - with binding on the reverse! Create your own curves and the top can be cut to your own design.

Here is their eco statement: "Our products are imported from pre-screened providers in Indonesia, Thailand and China. These items are created without use of any formaldehyde based glues and do not employ child labor. Bamboo is a sustainable product since it is a grass that can grow up to three meters in a day for certain species."

The Spring Chair - Bamboo re-invented

2008-08-19T13:46:00.003+01:00

From the 'Modern Bamboo Collection' by Anthony Marschak.

The Spring Chair

Made out of one complete piece of laminated bamboo, this minimalist chair is a great example of bentwood - but with a sustainable twist. This type of design reduces the need for component parts which means less demand for materials and manufacture.

From an environmental viewpoint the chair uses bamboo which is a 100% natural, rapidly renewable and biodegradable material. A much better alternative to hardwood timber.

With bamboo, consider the amount of shipping as this uses precious fuel resources and brings down the eco credentials if transported from overseas. The finish used on the bamboo is also important, does this contain chemicals or synthetics? Always check with the manufacturer for the technical data, this will help you make an all round eco evaluation.

The quick guide to saving energy

2008-08-16T23:26:00.002+01:00

As it's been raining the last few weeks in Dublin, naturally I've been feeling the cold more....and damp. I had my oil heater on for the first time this summer, and being mid August that is early. So with the feeling of autumn all too soon, it's time to look at your home and the energy you use (just when I was getting used to summer utility bills).

With simple alterations to home habits you can save energy and money on your utility bills. Double the benefit. The environment benefits with less demand on precious finite resources to fuel the energy in your home = less carbon emissions and less contribution to climate change. Your pocket also benefits with a few Euros/Pounds saved for a rainy day. Here's a quick energy checklist:

Insulation - Loft, floors and walls.

Windows - Double glazing.

Ventilation - But not draughts! Check windows and door seals. Open the windows and avoid air-conditioning.

Lighting - CFLs & LEDS - ditch the incandescent bulbs (responsible diposal of course)

Energy - Switch off and take out plugs, sockets, extension leads and power cables.

Energy Labels - Appliances with EU Energy rated labels from A to A++

Cool - Washing machine 30 degrees max. Keep the fridge door closed and the freezer de-iced for maximum efficiency.

Warm - Jumpers, blankets, socks, slippers and curtains, not the heating thermostat. Turn your heating and hot water temperature down a few degrees.

Air - Hang your washing on the line, make the tumbler-dryer redundant.

Water - Shower instead of bath, limit the shower to 5 minutes.

Hands - Wash your dishes manually.

Download your FREE EBook "DIY Home Energy Audit" - learn how to identify areas where heat is lost in your home with more tips to reduce energy bills.

The Back to School Guide to PVC Free School Supplies

2008-08-08T12:03:00.002+01:00

A great download is available through Center for Health, Environment and Justice (CHEJ). Helping you on your way to making healthier choices for your children. Find out about kid safe and environmentally friendly products. With your children spending so much time at school per day, this is one step towards a healthier life.

See this link to download your copy of the Back to School Guide to PVC Free School Supplies.

Coca Cola.....something a little different

2008-08-05T19:25:00.002+01:00

Stepping outside of the interiors world for a just a moment. This article from www.treehugger.com caught my eye.

A quick summary is how Coca Cola can 'manage' to sell their products all over the world in the strangest of locations and yet we still struggle as a global community to provide every single person with sufficient clean drinking water and medicine - which literally makes the difference between life and death.

Simon Berry posed this perspective and has started a campaign on Facebook.

Enjoy
Nicola
PS Next stop MacDonalds.......

Re-Think Tank - Electric Picnic 2008

2008-08-01T19:20:00.002+01:00

Courtesy of www.cultivate.ie you can find their solar powered Re-Think Tank on the 29-31 August at the Electric Picnic.

Showing a selection of films, debating climate change, exhibits of eco fashion and eco design. Don't miss out!

Dublin homes & energy efficiency

2008-08-01T18:59:00.002+01:00

An article today from www.irishconstruction.com makes reference how investments into exisiting homes will help Ireland on its way to reducing 20% of greenhouse gas emissions by 2020.

The interesting part is that new builds are not the focus. THANK YOU! Retrofit projects are being recommended with added insulation in the walls and attic for example, to help better the energy rating of your home. From an eco point of view, this also helps reduce the demand for new construction which wastes so much energy and resources. This is just what Ireland needs and with the upcoming energy laws in 2009.

Insulation is a must for every home - reudcing how much energy you use not only cuts carbon emissions and damage to the environment......you the user save too.....on your energy bills each month. Nothing to lose!

Read the full article with the link above. Follow this next link to read about eco insultation options in your home.

Skate board homes - Genuis!

2008-08-01T10:42:00.004+01:00

Fresh from California are 2 designers who have taken sustainable design to another level. Pierre Andre Senizergues and Gil Le Bon have created furniture from skateboards - in fact a whole home!

Check out their online store Up to the minute eco trends.... a huge market out there and easily adaptable in your own home too.

www.skatestudyhouse.com

My worst plastic nightmare

2008-07-12T13:21:00.002+01:00

Hello readers,

Courtesy of www.retro-matic.com have a look at this video clip about Plastics - Mid-Century Modern Style and Design

Does anyone mind if I scream and run! On a serious note, this video highlights just how much plastic is used in our homes and lifestyle. No wonder the modern world has seen a sharp increase in respiration conditions, skin and eye irritants. I cannot stress enough how dangerous long exposure to plastics can be for humans and animals.

The associated list of health problems continues to grow as more case studies are looked at. Throughout the majority of the 1900s, the dangers of plastics in processing, manufacture, consumer use and disposal where not fully known. Even now the dangers are not going to be fully known until we find out exactly what long periods of exposure does. Just like how our man made actions today, will not be felt until generations ahead of us.

Read more about the Dangers of Plastics , the low down on toxic interior vapours known as VOCs, and the conditions: Sick Building Syndrome and Multiple Sensitivities.

Special thanks to Cate Bramble for finding this.

Fighting against the tide.........

Architecture takes a leap forward.......

2008-06-27T18:44:00.004+01:00

For a taste of what's to come in the architectural world have a look at Dynamic Architecture. There isn't anything like this currently. It's going to be a masterpiece of materials, design, technology and engineering.

Known as the Dynamic Tower, this structure will be built in Dubai, launchin in 2010. What's so special is that the building swivels on a central pivot, but not just the whole building - each individual floor in turn. That's 80 floors creating an ever changing silhouette in the skyline. Each complete turn will take 1 - 3 hours, some centrally controlled and some controlled by the occupants.

So what does this have to do with sustainability? Each apartment is built as a prefabricated pod within the floor and has a wind turbine which creates self sufficient living between each floor. The whole thing is to be pieced together like a puzzle on site in Dubai. This brings sustainable living to a new level.

Check out one of the original news stories here

To find out how you can be more energy efficient in your home - albeit with a little less 'jazz' read my article on Household appliances, Natural Daylight, and Home energy savings tips.

The Sustainable Furniture Council NEWS!

2008-06-27T18:33:00.003+01:00

The Sustainable Furniture Council (SFC) have come up with a new type of eco label. Great news for consumers, although USA based, let's hope this carries through globally.

It's aimed at helping you the consumer choose furniture and furnishing products that do not damage natural forests. SFC already hold a number of members who are committed to upkeeping their environmental standards regarding forestation, pollution, waste, emissions and sustainable materials. They are now bringing those standards into a labelling system. Good to know, as they are truly are reliable resource and are not encouraging greenwashing.

100% Natural Tiles

2008-06-17T18:44:00.004+01:00

This product caught my eye, so I thought why not share it with you. Made by www.ekobebrasil.com in Portugal, this 100% natural and chemical free tile is quite unusual.

Ekobe Natural: Aoba Line
Their specificaiton;
These tiles are made from hard coconut shells using a patented processing method. The shells consist of about 50% lignite (natural vegetable resin), which gives it great resistance to decomposing or rotting and also insect attack. EKOBE uses vegetable matter that has already fulfilled its function in nature. EKOBE is an environmental sustainable product as the trees from which their products originate remain alive.

Green Me Blogging

2008-06-17T18:41:00.002+01:00

Hi everyone,

You can now view my blog entries on the upcoming Irish site www.greenme.ie Here's the link to their Blog and of course a direct link to my profile and a list of my posts.

So, yet another way to keep in touch with the latest eco interior views and news!!!! Enjoy.

Nicola

My New Venture!

2008-06-13T13:43:00.003+01:00

For those of you who have been wondering why my blog entries have been a little low over the last month, now's the time to let you all know what I have been doing.

The good news is that I haven't forgotten the blog, I've been working on a new venture which is just being launched now.

Alongside my ideas to fill the world with my eco interior designs, views and news, I have a new website.......

The Feng Shui Design Consultancy

Another string to my bow, and one that compliments my eco ethos nicely. You can follow my Feng Shui Blog as I build my website with free resources and articles for your Feng Shui pleasure. Or you can subscribe to the Feng Shui Ezine to receive a free 5 Element Theory Ebook.

Thanks for all of your emails and support! To celebrate there will be a special summer offer coming up ONLY available to Ezine subscribers. Sign up now to avoid missing out.

Wishing you all a great summer, especially for Ireland, let's hope the weather holds! I'll be back to my normal blogging soon.
Yours truly
Nicola

Ecobunga

2008-05-29T13:28:00.002+01:00

This new site caught my eye as something innovative and eco friendly at the same time.

Rather than just another eco site selling products and gadgets for the green consumer. This is a directory that provides up to the minute deals, coupons, offers, sales, free shipping and giveaways. Connecting the consumer with the best eco deals. Mainly USA based, let's hope this catches on in Europe too.

Visit www.ecobunga.com

LED Leaf lamp

2008-05-16T09:39:00.002+01:00

Take a look at Eco Centric's new offering - a LED Leaf lamp.

Sleek, contemporary design with energy saving at a premium (40% in comparison to convetional bulbs and 100,000 hour life). Added eco credentials are that it is made from 95% recyclable and 37% recycled materials. A cool £349.00......

Visit the LED Leaf lamp here.

Green consumer calculator

2008-05-14T18:18:00.002+01:00

Hi everyone,

National Geographic have just uploaded a very interesting set of statistics for the Green Consumers of the world. You can also have a go at their Green Consumer Quiz. The results show green consumer statistics globally - so which countries are truly buying green?

To help you on your own way through the green consumer jungle, read my set of articles titled "Eco Recommendations" and my article on "Green Consumerism". Avoid the greenwashing and ensure you don't fall for eco spoofs!

All the best Nicola

Green Pet Homes

2008-05-12T21:52:00.003+01:00

Try a more greener approach to your pet's home. www.sustainablepet.com offer sustainable green roof systems which insulate, improve air quality, look good and help ward off fleas and nasty pet creatures. Made to order with FSC timber and no toxic finishes.

Located in California, USA. A welcome addition to the home or garden that considers the health and wellbeing of your pets too. All living beings are affected by our human actions..........

Banana leaf lampshade

2008-04-26T09:39:00.003+01:00

Banana Leaf Hanging Lamp
Price: $219.00
Model: BST-002-BRC31
Designer: Brastilo
Delivery to US: 7-10 working days
Size: 13" diameter
Material: Banana leaves

An unusual woven ceiling lamp, made in Brazil using natural materials & natural colours.

Find it here www.vitamindesignshop.com

Earth Day!

2008-04-22T16:41:00.001+01:00

Join me and millions of others to celebrate Earth Day. Take action, attend an event, organise an event or simply donate. Together we can raise awareness for the natural environment, carbon footprints and the world we live in.

Sneak preview from Milan

2008-04-18T08:07:00.002+01:00

Another sneak preview of Salone Internazionale del Mobile, fresh from www.inhabitat.com is the Helica Carnea by Anouk Omlo. A handcrafted ceramic flower based on mathematical proportion. A truly beautiful design, it is amazing to see what can be created by hand as opposed to computer aided design and high tech machinery. Artisan at its best.

Making home energy saving a little easier

2008-04-16T07:06:00.005+01:00

Home energy monitor

The Watson O1 - A wireless device that measures the amount of electricity your home uses. It basically helps you become more aware of how much electricity you are using at any given time. It also has the capacity to show you the amount of energy you are creating (solar, wind turbines etc) as well as how much you are using. Coloured lights are used to show the amount being used, with different colours from blue, purple to red - indicating the amount. It has received great reviews as is very cheap to run and most importantly it helps raise awareness of just how much electricitiy is wasted by electrical equipment and appliances you didn't even realise were alive!

As the designers explain....... "Wattson interacts with the products that surround it, enhances users sensitivity to their environment, communicates with clarity and is leading us to a new understanding of the notion of home as a machine for living."

Visit www.diykyoto.com for more details.

For more ways to save energy in your home visit my article Home Energy Saving Tips

Renovation and restoration versus new eco build

2008-04-14T18:15:00.002+01:00

I read an interesting article today entitled “Preservation is Sustainability” through www.treehugger.com and saw some interesting statistics that I wanted to share with you all.

So which one is better for the environment? Demolition and new eco build or renovation and restoration of an exisiting build.

Lots of points to consider, but let’s focus on demolitioan. The energy used in demolitian will take around 65 years to recoup on a new eco build that has around 40% of recycled materials. One point the article makes is that new builds are not designed with longevity in mind. Read the full article for an alternative view of eco design.

This is something I try and get across to anyone interested in eco interior design. Being truly eco conscious it is not just about buying eco products, especially in Ireland. Importing& shipping use a huge amount of non renewable resources in transportation alone, that really is just the tip of the iceberg. Knowing where a product comes from helps you begin to evaluate its green potential. It’s difficult as some things just aren’t manufactured in Ireland yet.

You can help reduce your ecological footprint by buying locally produced products and materials as much as possible. Even better is to reduce waste by limiting the amount you create and reusing old to refurbish as new for your home. Three words that I am wearing out; reduce, reuse and recycle! Spruce up an old piece of furniture or renovate a run down home to bring its unique quality back to life.

Twig Bench

2008-04-13T19:09:00.003+01:00

Just divine, a natural and environmentally friendly addition to your lounge, conservatory or hallway.

Description: Hand made interior bench made of twigs, simplicity at its best.
Materials: Hazel
Material origin: Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust
Designer: Russel Pinch
Dimensions: Width: 160cm x Depth 46cm x Height 46cm
Delivery time: 6 weeks
Weight: 65 - 75kg
Cost: £1150.00
Delivery: UK only!

To order this bench visit www.nigelsecostore.com

Cosy wool cushion

2008-04-12T14:19:00.003+01:00

Have a look at this striking wool cushion created by Danish designer Tina Ratzer using 100% Australian biodynamic merino wool. Naturally it is more expensive due to the organic farming methods and the eco credential of production e.g. no chemical substances used, biodegradable dyes etc. But a small price to pay for chic and ethical design. Visit www.matteriashop.com for more eco furnishings and home accesories.

Inspiring tealight holders

2008-04-11T16:40:00.002+01:00

Just love these recycled tea light holders made out of old bicycle cogs. Given a new lease of life and a little polish to create rather attractive yet contemporary table dressings. Find these and other ingenius eco products at eco-artware.com

Green Map

2008-04-10T18:31:00.002+01:00

Hi everyone,

Here is an excerpt from the www.greenmap.org website. An international resource for sustainable community projects

"Green Map System energizes a diverse global movement of local mapmaking teams charting their community's natural, cultural and green living resources with our award-winning universal icons and adaptable multi-lingual resources. Explore hundreds of perspective-changing Green Maps created by local Map teams in 50 countries. Take part and support us as we chart a sustainable future!"

Enjoy!

FASHION EVOLUTION PARTY

2008-04-10T13:13:00.001+01:00

Ireland's leading fashion editor Constance Harris will present an evening of fashion, music and ethical awareness, in an event like Dublin has never seen before…

FASHION EVOLUTION PARTY in association with M&S

Ethical fashion - you are what you wear

When: Thursday april 24th
Doors: 7pm sharp
Where: the button factory, temple bar
How: Tickets €12 from www.tickets.ie
Speakers: International fashion designer & 2007's no. 1 Ethical hero Katharine Hamnettmike, Arry Head of Corporate Social Responsibility for M&S, Star Little Thing, Tiger Empire, Dirty Epics, JB The Deejay, Steve Reddy…..

Bamboo Shelf - Milan Show Preview

2008-04-10T12:05:00.003+01:00

Fresh from www.inhabitat.com

Take a look at this Milan Furniture Fair preview of a stunning bamboo shelf made by Ryan Frank

Use the title link to view the post and if you like this style visit Frank's site www.ryanfrank.net

Earth Hour Success!

2008-04-01T19:47:00.002+01:00

Thanks to everyone who took part in Saturday's Earth Hour at 8pm. It was certainly noticeable in my area on Dublin, and Astronomy.ie made the most of the wet weather and slightly clearer skies with their telescopes by the Papal Cross in the Phoenix Park.

Hot off the Irish press - read the following link to find out more about this event and the plans for next year "Earth Hour 2009".

Irish firms failed to see the light - activists

FASHION EVOLUTION

2008-03-27T18:13:00.003Z

Slightly off track from the interiors world, but also close to my heart is eco fashion. As we all know interior trends tend to stem from the catwalk, so pay attention to textiles and fabrics - coming soon to your couch!

IRISH FASHION EVENT
Fashion Evolution will focus the attention of Irish buyers, designers, educators and consumers on the ethical and environmental effects of the industry with a view to opening discussion and developing pro-active solutions to the challenges put before them.

FASHION EVOLUTION is a 4-day industry and consumer based awareness campaign. The FASHION EVOLUTION campaign commences this year on Thursday April 24th in the Button Factory Temple Bar with a public debate with Katharine Hamnett.

To book a place at the launch email info@re-dress.ie with 'booking' in the subject line.

Lights out 8pm sharp on March 29th!!!!!!!!

2008-03-27T18:08:00.002Z

Earth Hour 2008 asks you to make a commitment to turn off your lights for one hour at 8pm 29 March 2008.

This is just one way of taking the the first step in showing the world that you care enough about global warming to take action.

So join me and many others who will switch off sharp on Saturday night.

Use the link above to find out more and register as a participant. THANKS!

Green living contributors wanted

2008-03-26T22:28:00.002Z

I'm looking for contributors for my website - to expand my public resources areas with real life experiences.

Would you be interested in writing a review of an eco product or material you have in your home?

Do you have energy efficiency tips you want to share?

How has living the greener lifestyle helped you and your family?

Do you have an eco interior case study you would like to share with others?

Follow the link above to the online form and help spread the eco word!

Volatile organic compounds & your health

2008-03-21T08:04:00.002Z

Everything around you in your home may contain Volatile organic compounds (VOCs). So what are they exactly and how could they affect your heatlh? In a nutshell, they are toxic vapours that are contained within furniture, fixtures, fittings and furnishings - which are released as airborne vapours into your interior. Chemical manufacturing has a lot to answer for. Read more about VOCs in my health & wellbeing resources area using the link above.

Are you a design professional, contractor or developer in need of eco consultancy services on a particular project?

2008-03-08T20:15:00.003Z

As a designer or professional working in the residential and commercial building sector it is your reponsibility to be eco aware in the work you do. Every brick that is laid and every timber plank that is sawn falls under somebody's specification. Buildings last for decades, so building for future generations is our objective, and so should be eco friendly, environmental and sustainable design.

Use this "Eco consultancy for professionals link" to find out more.

Personal Emissions Calculator

2008-03-02T15:25:00.001Z

The US Environmental Protection Agency have a fantastic tool for you to use to calculate your own personal emissions at home, work and play. Use the link above and try for yourself. It's very insightful!

American trends in the home

2008-02-29T07:58:00.003Z

Hot off the American press, reports show that the size of homes and rooms are getting smaller with lower ceiling heights and less emphasis on cellar and attic conversions/living space. People are now focusing on the ground floor as their main communal area, with open plan being popular. This is great news, as the whole ethos of eco interior design is living in a space that isn't too large for your needs. This helps reduce the amount of energy/resources you use for heating, cooling and refurbishment.

For more information about how to go green in each room of your home please read my range of articles on room by room eco ideas.

Energy saving with Google

2008-02-28T17:17:00.001Z

Seeing as I spend so much time at my computer screen, here is a nifty way of saving energy with Google. Introducing 'Blackle', the darker side of Google!

Greenwashing in the press

2008-02-24T08:43:00.002Z

Hi everyone,

Recently in the Irish glossy magazines I have seen a rise in eco features. Great! Except to me a bit of greenwashing is going on. The whole essence of eco interior design is being lost......

BUY LESS.

This helps reduce the demand for manufacture which:

1. uses precious non renewable resources for energy during production
2. creates a huge amount of waste during production
3. uses huge amounts of finite fossil fuel for transportation and delivery
4. destroys the local landscape during material extraction
5. creates a huge amount of waste with packaging
6. encourages chemical / synthetic processing 90% of the time
7. vastly contributes to air pollution - carbon emissions
8. I could go on.......

So, go back to the very start and consider it's not what you buy, but what you don't buy that really helps the environment.

And if you really have to buy that new sofa with the latest upholstery design, go for second hand, reclaimed & refurbished or one that has been made with recycled materials.

Read more in my article on green consumerism.

Visit my new article "Top 10 list of eco home tips"

2008-02-20T22:44:00.003Z

Want a quick guide to eco interiors?

This article is a quick reference guide to the whole ethos of holistic interior design. What it means to go green in your home from a variety of perspectives.

ENJOY!

Flooring trends 2008

2008-02-11T20:00:00.000Z

2008 flooring trends are leaning towards pale painted floor boards, salvaged or reclaimed being the better eco option by making good use of recycled materials. In particular wide rustic reclaimed boards are sought after items, which add huge amounts of character to your home. This type of flooring brings the warmth of wood with a twist of light, airy and sophisticated French décor. Matched with antiqued finish pale furniture, echoed on the window sill, architrave, skirting and mirror frame in the bedroom to make the most of reflected natural light for a classic look that will not date.

Read my article on reclaimed flooring for more information on salvaged timber and the environment

Irish ban on light bulbs UPDATE

2008-02-07T06:12:00.000Z

Today the Irish press reported that the law making energy efficient bulbs compulsory across Ireland will damage the environment when they are thrown away. These compact fluorescent bulbs contain mercury and when thrown into landfill sites, there is the possibility that the mercury escapes from the broken bulb polluting the earth and air. However, the bulbs can be disposed of correctly and safely at a special waste facility. In reality how many people will use these facilities?

Update - Irish plastic bag ban

2008-02-06T09:01:00.000Z

Reported today, the government tax on plastic bags in Ireland has caused a drop in 94%! This is great news and sets a good example to other countries. Follow suit everyone.

Patio Heater Update!!!!!!!!

2008-02-01T22:45:00.000Z

I heard today that the proposal mentioned in my blog last week to ban patio heaters, has received some negative views from British MEPs! It is imperative that this recent rise in the demand and manufacture of outdoor heaters, which consumes a huge amount of non renewable energy/fuel and creates huge amounts of carbon emissions, does not get any worse. The argument is in regards to the loss of trade if pubs cannot heat outdoor areas for smokers. Isn't that a good reason to stop smoking!

Electromagnetic fields and your home

2008-01-31T23:05:00.000Z

If you don't know what electromagnetic fields (EMFs) are, it is a good idea to familiarise yourself with this term. Find out what it means to you, your family and your home. Electricity causes a type of radiation which you cannot see, smell, touch or hear. EMFs are associated with health problems, although the full effects are not yet known. Read my articles on EMFs for more details.

Eco paints for your interior

2008-01-28T18:29:00.001Z

Finding truly eco friendly paint can be a challenge. Some paint manufacturers claim to be natural, organic and chemical free. As with all claims, be careful when choosing eco finishes as there are currently no legal requirements for manufacturers regarding toxic, synthetic and chemical content.

Read my article on eco interior paint ideas to help make an informed choice for your home.