GE
GE has introduced a hybrid water heater that can cut your electric bills by more than 60 percent. It may not be the most energy-efficient unit on the market, (though it is EnergyStar qualified), but it does have two features I find noteworthy: 1) It fits into a typical water heater installation location easily and seamlessly. 2) It has an easy to use vacation setting that makes it easy to turn off for up to 90 days... No more getting on your knees with the toolbox to disconnect for a few weeks.
Plus, it looks like it belongs in Star Wars, doesn't it, and I'm a sucker for utilitarian objects with style!
Napoleon
For the homeowner who has everything, but craves ever more bling, Napoleon has introduced a fireplace studded with Swarovski crystals. Fire and ice, anyone?
Kenmore
On a more practical note, Kenmore has added a handy feature to its dryer line that lets you know when the dryer vent is blocked. This can save you a pricey service call and make your dryer work more efficiently. On the face of it, this model looks like every other front loader on the market, but its alert feature is just smarter than most. Go, Blue Team!
Kohler
Last week, I mentioned two Kohler products. This week, I've got a few more to share, all in the eye candy arena. The first is an extension of the Persuade line called Persuade Curve that offers a compact toilet perfect for powder rooms. There are also coordinating lavs and vanities, as shown here. I liked the Petite Console, also great for tight spaces.
Another Kohler item I really liked, though not a new addition to the line, was the Nature's Chemistry: Antilia Wading Pool glass countertop lavatory.
It is just so very beautiful! Trust me, this official photo doesn't really do it justice.
Kraftmaid
Kraftmaid Cabinets, a staple in home centers everywhere, and a popular dealer line, as well, was showing off for builders last week. Long a leader in bringing custom features to non-custom kitchens across the country, Kraftmaid has done it again! You can now get stacked cabinets with glass inserts and integral side panels in the line, something you used to have to go to more expensive brands to achieve at much higher prices. Bravo for bringing excellence to affordability!
ReVISION House
Every other booth, it seemed, touted its green creds at IBS2010. One unofficial showcase home that showed how it could be done right was the GreenBuilder Magazine's ReVISION house. I toured this restored ranch on VIP night and really respected what they'd done with the place. The home is located in the historic Paradise Palms neighborhood, which I also enjoyed seeing, albeit in the dark and the rain! Inside was a crisp, modern interior expertly designed by Patricia Gaylor. The curb appeal is evident in the drawing below from GreenBuilder. I'll let them tell the rest of the story on the ReVISION web site.
I will say this: Visiting this project made up for the disappointment in the official IBS showcase home not being completed in time for the show this year... The first time ever in its history, I believe, and a true sign of the times - they couldn't get financing to get it done! Need I say more?
Waht was your take at IBS with regard to Age in Place?
ReplyDeleteShannon
Wisconsin