But it also became clear, Landry says, that the renovations he did had to include a high level of amenities and efficiencies, and offer a low level of maintenance. That was the formula to attract the urban professionals who would pay more to live in a special home in a special area.


A case in point is the locally made, concrete countertops used throughout the home. They cost 15%–20% more than granite. During open houses, guests would examine the kitchen. Eight of 10 commented on the kitchen counters but didn’t know what they were made of. The others knew instantly. “There’s a market, a small market, of people who get this,” Landry said. “But you can’t fake it.


 


A FRIENDLIER FIRE
Is your home ready for “fire furniture?”


That’s one of the selling points for EcoSmart Fireplaces, an Australian company with a clean and green angle on how to heat a room and look good doing it.


How about the Zeta, a modern, elliptical-shaped unit made of wood, leather and stainless steel? It can generate a warm, dancing flame for up to 20 hours.


EcoSmart Fireplaces burn bio-ethanol, basically denatured alcohol. The fuel is made from agricultural by-products, and the only emissions are heat, steam, and carbon dioxide. The lack of smoke means the fireplace needs no flue or vent.


The fireplaces come in a variety of styles. Beyond freestanding “fire furniture,” a firebox insert can turn a traditional hearth into an environmentally friendly heater that won’t send smoke and warmth up the chimney. Prices start around $2,000; you’re paying for style, not just heat. Shown here is the company’s Fusion model. www.ecosmartfire.com/en/home


05.2011
38

Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8  |  Page 9  |  Page 10  |  Page 11  |  Page 12  |  Page 13  |  Page 14  |  Page 15  |  Page 16  |  Page 17  |  Page 18  |  Page 19  |  Page 20  |  Page 21  |  Page 22  |  Page 23  |  Page 24  |  Page 25  |  Page 26  |  Page 27  |  Page 28  |  Page 29  |  Page 30  |  Page 31  |  Page 32  |  Page 33  |  Page 34  |  Page 35  |  Page 36  |  Page 37  |  Page 38  |  Page 39  |  Page 40  |  Page 41  |  Page 42  |  Page 43  |  Page 44  |  Page 45  |  Page 46  |  Page 47  |  Page 48  |  Page 49  |  Page 50  |  Page 51  |  Page 52  |  Page 53  |  Page 54  |  Page 55  |  Page 56  |  Page 57  |  Page 58  |  Page 59  |  Page 60  |  Page 61  |  Page 62  |  Page 63  |  Page 64  |  Page 65  |  Page 66  |  Page 67  |  Page 68  |  Page 69  |  Page 70  |  Page 71  |  Page 72  |  Page 73  |  Page 74  |  Page 75  |  Page 76