Halfway between California and Australia, French Polynesia isn’t a singular sensation but a mosaic of moods spread across 118 small islands and atolls (67 inhabited) and more than a thousand miles of ocean. It’s not a place of museums or hot spots, but rather an elemental destination of earth, water, air, fire, and something else even more elusive that I felt but can barely explain in words; mana.
Read More
Moment of Inspiration - [Gratitude Sailing NW]
SZ Gallery hosted a successful fundraiser reception for Gratitude Sailing NW on May 10th, raising over $7,000 that night for the organization.
Gratitude Sailing NW is a Kirkland-based nonprofit organization that provides a healing respite for those under extreme stress from illness, incapacity, and/or a major life event. The nautical environment, and specifically sailing, have healing, transforming, and refreshing properties. The objective is to offer various types of outings to promote the well-being of patients and their caregivers by introducing them to sailing and the sea.
Read More425: Love it!
Thank you, Lauren Foster & 425 Magazine for listing a few of my favorites in your current Summer issue. Wishing everyone a Happy 4th of July & sun-filled summer, cheers!
Heron Hall: A Living Building Home on Bainbridge Island
Had the distinct pleasure of touring Heron Hall, currently under construction, on Bainbridge Island earlier this afternoon. Was welcomed by Joss Krayenhoff, co-owner of SIREWALL USA. He's hosting a hands-on practicum, along side Jason McLennan, Owner/Architect of Heron Hall, creator of the Living Building Challenge & one of the most influential leaders in the green building movement.
While admiring the first SIREWALL revealed and thumbing through this unique home's floor plans, I was delighted to hear that Jason McLennan and his family had just arrived on site. Jason was kind enough to walk me through the various design features of his beautiful home.
Joss & team were busily forming up the Stair Tower. Jason explained that this particular location of the house was the central hub - utilities were home-run beneath the stair, family members would be traveling within and have a view out towards the entry drive to welcome guests, and all rainwater is directed to its rooftop for collection in nearby cisterns. As you travel vertically, views of the estuary marsh begin to open up.
This home is striving to meet all petal requirements of the Living Building Challenge, 'the worlds most progressive and stringent green building rating system'.
Inspiring all around!