When it comes to green buildings, most people think of either sleek, super modern architecture, or weird, organic forms. For the past three years I worked on a LEED Platinum home that was specifically designed to blend into its surroundings. Located in an older north suburb of Chicago, the house was surrounded by hundred-year old buildings, and this project, while using modern technology and building techniques, fits right in. More

It may look like something that can beam you up, but step inside the G-Pod and you'll be transported to a cozy space designed for living or entertaining at home. More

Since I spent some time touring some of the natural beauty in my hometown, I figured I'd take a stroll through one of the city's most beautiful historic districts. Now considered to be a lush oasis in downtown Lexington, Gratz Park was originally established outside of the city's limits in 1781. More

A few weeks ago I went to Palm Springs, California for a wedding and I found myself in an architectural time warp. Because my husband was the best man, we were invited to stay with the bride and groom in the home they had rented, which also served as wedding venue. It was a glorious experience to live for three long sunny days inside a true mid-century modern time warp.
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Name: Regina O'Brien: Set Decorator and Production Designer and
Hardy Wronske: Principal Heyday Partnership
Location: Happy Valley, Lincoln Heights, Los Angeles, California
Size: 1700 square feet
Years lived in: 6 years

Regina and Hardy live in this fun place called Happy Valley. It is just past downtown Los Angeles and is perched up on a small hill. Since Hardy's firm, Heyday Partnership, specializes in affordable architecture, his own home is an example of his work. Both lots were purchased for an incredibly low price and he was very frugal with the cost of building the two homes. Regina and Hardy live in the "Jill" of the Jack + Jill and another design enthusiast lives in the "Jack."

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What could be more inspirational for an artist than to nestle one's studio space in a completely organic, natural setting? This 1,250 square foot studio space is located on a 3.4 acre piece of land on San Juan Island in Washington. More

Small outdoor kitchens are as practical as they are fun. Cooking outdoors during the warm months of the year means we prevent heating up our homes and are smart about how we use energy. For this reason, many warm climate cultures use outdoor kitchens as their main cooking space. It's also a whole lot of fun and doesn't require a big budget or a ton of space to set one up. More

Living on the road certainly has its advantages. While I don't have a home to call my own, I do get to visit lots of really wonderful places and dream that they're all mine. (At least for a short while.) I'm always sure to search out a place to stay with a balcony or some sort of outdoor space, as I've quickly learned that this is the number one way for me to feel relaxed and at home.
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There are a number of churches around the globe that have been converted into truly impressive homes. The decor ranges from modern and minimal to rustic and cozy. Follow me after the jump for a peek inside these holy homes... More

For the second year in a row AIA Chicago has recognized local small firms who work on small projects with small budgets with their Small Project Awards. We love small, and look forward to these awards for the showcase of creativity and innovation across the midwest. Here's a highlight of five of the residential winners. More