Feminine Mystique (113)Annette Tyson's second home is a three-story, 10,000-square foot modern architectural endeavor composed of steel, glass and concrete. Visit this Sarasota, Fla. dwelling, which is flooded with natural light, uses 10 shades of white paint as interior décor, and displays simplicity of detail.
Then, travel to Phoenix, Ariz. for a tour of Anne Schneider's house. It was important to Schneider that it blended into the desert landscape, and she chose a home color that would complement the rocks. The floor-to-ceiling windows allow for an open floor plan and an airy flow.
It took nearly two years for Bunny Williams to find her Falls Village, Conn. home. But over the past 20 years she has created her own look and style in restoring the 100-year-old house and barn. Check out her one-of-a-kind pieces and eclectic mix of furniture—from French to Swedish.
Finally, meet Jill Kleinberg, who moved back to her hometown of Lawrence, Kan. with the goal of settling down... but not in a typical Kansas home. Kleinberg had developed an appreciation for Japanese style and design from her years of travel—a look that may be somewhat unusual in Lawrence, but nonetheless embodies her ideal of the perfect home.
Glass And Concrete Home Facts:
- Because concrete absorbs, stores and slowly releases thermal energy, it minimizes temperature changes in the home.
- Azurlite glass is impact resistant, and its use alleviates the need for storm shutters during hurricanes.
- According to Feng Shui philosophy, you can use color—like flowers—to offset the "cold" energy caused by the use of too much white.
- Ludwig Mies van der Rohe (1886-1969) was an architect known for designing steel and glass office buildings.
- Water features can cool a home, diffuse loud noises in and around a home, and contribute to a calm atmosphere.
Desert Home Facts:
- Wait a week before watering newly planted cactus to allow the roots to heal.
- Drop ceilings are typically held up by thin suspension wires and are unable to hold much additional weight.
1800s House Facts:
- In a traditional interior, one should balance the fireplace mantle decor with a pair of dominant objects. A painting, picture, mirror or wall hanging above the mantle gives focus to displayed items.
- It takes two people to wallpaper effectively—one hangs and trims while the other cleans, measures, cuts and pastes.
- In the 1800s, conservatories were used as trophy rooms for plants found around the world. Today, conservatories are used as sitting rooms, spas and art studios.
Japanese House Facts :
- Polished concrete is less slippery than waxed linoleum or polished marble. Using acid or strong alkaline to clean concrete may etch or even dissolve it.
- Fiberglass panels are lightweight, flame retardant, dirt resistant, and practically unbreakable.
