Happy New Year!
Can I still say that? Why not? Just in case yours didn't get off to a great start, I believe there is plenty of time to right the ship, or at least list less. In other words move on from listless. Like, how can you be listless if you plan to list less?
While some of you are pondering that, let me direct your attention to this issue's content. I think it's pretty cool. In fact, some people make careers out of layering and overlapping strategies to intentionally make unintended benefits INTENDED!
Here's to a memorable 11 months!
Stuart M. Parsons CAPS, LEED AP
S. M . Parsons Architects Inc.
Incidental Perks
What do you get when you combine Aging -In-Place modifications with (insert any convenient term)...
Is this a joke? No, but you could end up with some outstanding punch lines!
What I mean is you could start out with humbly good intentions to improve conditions in and around your home, to allow you many comfortable and enjoyable years. But without even being aware of them, you end up with unintended benefits; kind of like positive renovation cross pollination?!!
And who can't use multiple advantages from a single improvement? I've never met anyone who declined the offer: "We're only paying for some views, we'll pass on the natural light and ventilation."
In the world of LEED, the concept is called the Integrative Process:
"Project team members look for synergies among systems and components, the mutual advantages that can help achieve high levels of building performance, human comfort, and environmental benefits."
The process results in points in the LEED rating system, and of course the advantages just mentioned. But you as a DreamHomeOwner, need only reap the benefits that you can see, experience, enjoy, save money on, etc..
Where would one start?
At the beginning of the path, of course. Maybe that is a driveway, or a walkway from the sidewalk. You really need it to be safe, comfortable, and easily traversable for family, friends, visitors, caregivers, I'll stop there...
But can't it also do things like percolate, drain away water and puddles, that might turn to ice, and create a tactile surface to notify someone when materials change, (which can help with orientation)?
Well yes and while we are at it, you can also create positive drainage away from your foundation wall, if say you are re-grading a walkway to eliminate stairs. That may also cure a wet basement problem.
Hmmmm.....that sounds like aggravating several birds with one stone, not that we're interested in that kind of recreation....
What else can be done with landscaping?
Have you been thinking about sprucing up the perimeter of your yard, with say some Spruces, or perhaps a Monty Python era "shrubbery"?
With a little professional landscaping help, you could easily spruce things up and also:
• Visually screen the distractions of the street
• Reduce the yard noise level
• Mitigate wind gusts and airborne debris
• Improve the air quality around your compound
What about the home's entry?
Improving the whole entry area makes a noticeable difference to all the parties mentioned above, and especially to your experience whether you use it or just glow in the satisfaction of knowing you've upgraded your visitor's experience!
Maybe you want to improve stairs or remove steps to create a zero-step entry, or add railings and guardrails.
Would you like to create some shelter over the door way and landing? Is the door itself too narrow, swing the wrong way or difficult to operate? How about the lighting? Is there any? Is it effective?
You may start out with one improvement in mind and find that you have created five by association. Without even considering it, a door replacement might provide a better measure of safety, functionality, comfort, energy efficiency, noise reduction, building longevity, security, and absolutely aesthetics.
I know there are more. That's just the nature of hidden benefits! Stay tuned for PART 2, the Inner Sanctum!
The Heart of the Matter
Whether you believe in the famed origin of the heart shaped symbol from the extinct silphium seedpod, or not...,
your family, friends and loved ones will know you put your heart into this gift:
Schedule your Valentine's Day Home Assessment Special before February 8, and also receive a complimentary assessment that you can give to a special person of your choice!
Act now to take advantage of this sweeeeet deal!
Happy Valentine's Day!
(Schedule an appointment HERE)
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