Envisioning the Future
What will the energy-efficient house of the future look like? The Wall Street Journal recently asked four architects to stretch their imagination and design an energy-efficient house “without regard to cost, technology, aesthetics or the way we are used to living.” They came up with some imaginative ideas. One envisioned a home that functioned more like a living tree. Another imagined a home with a “biomorphic” skin that could change colors to insulate or cool the home. The third architect focused on constructing a home covered in plants that would provide food and shelter from the sun. The fourth turned to ideas from the past such as a “breeze chimney” for cooling to go alongside newer ideas such as solar paneling built directly into the roof. All in all, it’s a wonderful preview of what our green future may look like.

Water conservation without sacrificing performance is a leading trend at this year’s K/BIS. And keeping with that idea, Gerber Plumbing Fixtures is introducing its new Avalanche 1.28 high-efficiency toilet at booth #B3834. Using it instead of a conventional 1.6 gallon model, a family of four can save up to 8,760 gallons of water a year. It’s also backed by a full five-year warranty. We were impressed by Gerber’s videos showing how its HETs could flush a full roll of toilet paper, seven pounds of fruit salad and with one flush. If you’re still skeptical that you get all the power you need when you use a HET, these videos will surely prove otherwise. Another great thing about the Gerber products is their affordability and designs. You get high performance, sleek designs all at a great price point.