COPPER-CLAD

A hand-patinaed surface lends each of Stone Forest’s new Contemporary Quattro copper sinks a uniquely appealing finish. And the product is environmentally friendly to boot.

It is crafted from double-walled recycled copper that is more than 99-percent pure and lead-free, according to literature from Stone Forest, a Santa Fe-based company.

The sink measures 16" square by 6" deep and can be obtained through Central Arizona Supply, (602) 943-3488. To learn of other dealers, check stoneforest.com, or call (888) 682-2987.



WORDS OF WISDOM

Birds build nests proportionate to their size and often from sustainable materials found in the surrounding environment, say Paula Baker-Laporte, an architect, and Robert Laporte, an eco-friendly home builder. In their book EcoNest: Creating Sustainable Sanctuaries of Clay, Straw, and Timber (Gibbs Smith, Publisher), the two discuss how homeowners can take a tip from these eco-minded creatures and create “econests” of their own. 

Econests employ principles of “building biology,” a movement in northern Europe that explores the relationship between “human health and the built environment.” Baker-Laporte specializes in such techniques. As an example, the authors encourage a basic home foundation consisting of a timber frame core and clay/straw walls, while avoiding the use of excessive chemicals or synthetic insulation.

Another suggestion is to control the temperature of a home by using adobe for interior walls. Found among the book’s 10 case studies was a New Mexico residence that used a recessed adobe wall to moderate heat from an adjoining fireplace.
—Mary Modney