In response to a design challenge issued by the USGBC, WATG and IDEO created "Haptik," a sustainable hotel suite that blends sustainability and luxury in a high-tech environment. The suite, named after a Greek term for experiencing interactions based on touch, won the challenge and was built as a model at HD Expo 2010 last month. Courtesy of WATG, take a look inside:
Last year we mentioned this ultra-green Active House in Denmark. Even with all the windows, it's paradoxically efficient enough to capture more energy than the occupants need for heat and power. In fact, over 40 years, the idea is that surplus energy will offset the energy required for construction and materials, too. It's a step beyond zero net energy or even Passive House.
After the debut of PUMA City in Boston last year, PUMA redesigned the massive retail container space to create a new space in New York to coincide with FIFA World Cup 2010. The smaller space, PUMA City NY, features two separate shipping containers configured as a retail space by architects LOT-EK and builders SG Blocks, maker of the Harbinger House.
If you liked the Ultimate Desert House, you’ll probably have some interest in this PopUp House from House Port. Pictured is a prototype of the PopUp House in Petaluma, California, which was built with SIPs and a metal house port. The actual home is shaded by a galvanized roof for natural ventilation, and the company has designs for one or two cube installations.
With the weather getting warmer, perhaps you're thinking about a visit to the lake or the local pool with the week coming to an end. If not, check out this ultra luxury home located on the beach near Diamond Head State Monument in Honolulu, Hawaii — it'll get you thinking. Earlier this year, the home was featured in the Honolulu Star Bulletin and described as being for sale for $6,680,000, but it's now listed at $5,988,000.
We’re fascinated with small houses like this one in Jackson, Wyoming. The “park model” home was featured on the Tiny House Blog the other day, racking up a slew of comments. Referred to as the “Caboose,” it turns out the home was built with SIP walls and roofing (for energy efficiency) and has bamboo flooring, a dual-flush toilet, LED lighting, and an exterior cladding of both rusty metal and cedar siding. It cost $95,000 to build but can be rented if you’re near Jackson Hole Campground.
