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Hey all,
I want to take this opportunity to introduce myself – I’m Graham Beck, Online Editorial Assistant at Organic Spa Magazine and for the next few months I’ll be sharing the amazing progress of the Rocky River Green Home. I plan to keep you updated on everything that’s happening on Avalon Dr., from the first nail driven to the final touch of paint. Located in the beautiful community of Rocky River, Ohio, the RRGH is as beautiful as it is unique. What’s special about the RRGH is that we are incorporating the existing foundation from the previous house with the designs of the new additions. While this step makes us unable to receive a LEED Certification, we feel reclaiming what we can from the existing structure will reduce the amount of waste and ultimately leaving less of a footprint behind.
The outstanding architects at AODK Inc. drew up plans to expand the home upwards as well as out. Before we knew it, the team from The Krill Co. had the project under-way with the chimney raised to accommodate the larger second level. The existing roof was removed as the shipment of lumber was delivered. All of the dimensional lumber and plywood products used are Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified and the Oriented Strand Board, or OSB, is Sustainable Forestry Initiative (STI) certified – a far cry from the 1950’s-style of building. Out with the old and in with the…green!
Choosing FSC and STI certified lumber and wood products ensures that the material being used is manufactured responsibly and was sourced from naturally sustainable means. So what does that all mean in regards to the RRGH? It means consumers, like owners Beverly and David, can breath easy knowing the forests and the people closely connected with those forests are being treated with respect. According to the FSC’s website, the “trees that are harvested are replaced or allowed to regenerate naturally.” While the FSC holds the highest standard for forestry protection, it’s not just the trees they’re looking out for. Wildlife preservation, protecting the rights and culture of indigenous people to those forests, and the employment and training of local workers are all factors that the FSC take into account.
As the team finished framing the additions and roof, everyone began to see just how special this project was becoming. Combining the established history of the original house with the Green ways of today is something the entire community of Rocky River can feel proud of.
Next step – windows.