homeDESIGNstl.com

Archive for June, 2009

It May Be 100 Degrees, But…

Friday, June 26th, 2009

Fire pits are the hottest trend in outdoor-living design features, according to a recent poll by the American Society of Landscape Architects.
Fire pits create an inviting focal point for gatherings. As ornamental features, they lend warm ambience to the landscape.
One reason for the popularity of fire pits and outdoor fireplaces is the concept of the “staycation”– the idea of staying home on vacation and upgrading your outdoor living space.

Portable fire pits usually consist of a round or square bowl in a frame with legs. Fashioned from materials such as steel, copper, bronze, clay, granite or enamel, they burn wood, charcoal, gel fuel or natural gas.
In-ground models are constructed of noncombustible materials such as brick, stone or concrete. It usually is incorporated into the design of a courtyard, patio or pool area, and designs vary greatly.

Brick’s Role in Sustainable Design

Monday, June 8th, 2009

In July of last year, the US Green Building Council announced that it had reached 10,000-members. “The achievement is a significant milestone in the growth and development of the green building movement, because it demonstrates a broad conviction that our built environment can improve the health of our planet, our economy and our communities,” says Rick Fedrizzi, president, founding chair and CEO of the USGBC.

The green industry recognizes the important role that brick will play in its development because of the material’s manufacturing process and sustainability.

Read the Full Article on Brick’s Contribution to Green

The Masonry Institute of St. Louis promotes the use of masonry, masonry contractors and union bricklayers by serving as an educational and promotional resource for brick, stone, glass and concrete masonry products in commercial and residential markets.

© 2008 Masonry Institute of St. Louis
MISL