natural light

Commanding attention overhead, and eco-chic as well, this Bento Collection pendant from Troy Lighting takes its inspiration from the simplicity of Japanese design.

Recycled mahogany “ribs” provide a framework for the fixture’s elongated Saguran shade, which covers a base with chandelier-type bulbs. Weavers in the Philippines make Saguran from raffia fibers derived from the unopened leaves of Buri palm trees grown on an environmentally friendly plantation.

In addition to the 30 ¾"H by 22"W pendant shown here, the Bento Collection includes lighting suitable for various uses, such as over a kitchen island, or as a wall sconce.

Bento Collection selections can be ordered through Hinkley’s Custom Lighting in Scottsdale, (480) 948-8799, Hinkley’s Lighting Factory in Phoenix, (602) 279-6267, and Valley Light Gallery in Scottsdale, (480) 948-5030; or visit troy-lighting.com.

horse senseAt first glance, these Horatio Horse Head sculptures look as if they were made by an ancient Greek artisan. In actuality, they were created with a Modern edge by Marsia Holzer, a New York artist and designer with an eco-sensibility. Modeling them first in clay, Holzer has the equine heads cast in recycled aluminum or recycled bronze. These metals may have come from something found in a junkyard, or may have been used for a railing or a machine in an old building before being melted down for use in her art, she says. The sculptures measure 7"H x 5 ½"W and are available through Marsia Holzer Studio. For purchasing information, call (212) 431-9343. To view these and other eco-chic products online, visit marsiaholzer.com.

BookSHELF Author Dominic Bradbury maintains that eco-friendly homes can be built in any climate. The hot desert is one case in point. In New Natural Home: Designs for Sustainable Living (Thames & Hudson), he proposes taking advantage of the natural resources the desert has to offer, such as intense sunlight, which can be harnessed for energy needs, including cooling. A house in the Coachella Valley, near Palm Springs, California, is his model for low-energy use in the desert. The residence utilizes renewable energy from wind turbines and solar roof panels. Windows are energy-efficient as well, and natural cross-ventilation was built into the design.

ON THE WEBWhile some artists search the world for ideas, Wendy Gold uses globes as inspiration for ImagineNations, a collection of hand-decoupaged globe art. Artonglobes.com showcases geographically out-of-date globes that Gold rescues from flea markets or garage sales and transforms into works of art. Sizes range from 8" to 30" in diameter, and floor models are offered when available. Although the website has 14 design options, Gold welcomes suggestions for custom colors or embellishments to create unique recycled art.  —LeeAnn DiSanti

Didjaknow?
While solar water-heating systems usually cost more to purchase and install than conventional types, they can save money in the long run. On average, with solar, residential water-heating bills could drop by 50 to 80 percent. For more information, visit energysavers.gov/your_home/water_heating.  —U.S. Department of Energy