#lighting ventilation heating efficient windows

[butcheredsaint]

Helllllooo! I’m back with some more smut ;) Apologies for being so quiet yesterday..I won’t lie, I had major writer’s block, lol.

Blood and Breath

MDNI!!

-Warnings:Dominant Billy Butcher, public risk, parking lot setting, blood, intense sexual acts, manual stimulation, possessive language, sexual control, size difference,slight fluff/comfort,pet names (Pet,love,sweetheart),creampie/breeding theme,female reader.

-Summary: The heist was a success, but the fear hasn't left you yet. Billy pulls into the darkest corner of the parking garage to help you calm down, turning your lingering terror into something much more demanding

—————

The Vought parking garage was a maze of cold concrete and shadows, the low hum of the ventilation system doing nothing to settle your nerves. Your hands were still shaking, your heart rabbitfast against your ribs, and your clothes were stained with streaks of someone else’s blood from the scuffle upstairs. Billy, his knuckles split and bleeding, didn’t look bothered by the carnage. He gunned the engine of the sedan, the tires screeching as he ripped through the levels until he found a dark, secluded corner.

He killed the lights and turned to you, the sudden silence of the car feeling heavy. You were staring out the window, your breath hitched, trying to process the adrenaline and the violence you'd just witnessed.

"It’s okay sweetheart” Billy’s voice was uncharacteristically low stripping away his usual bluster. He reached over, his large, calloused hand cupping your jaw, his thumb gently wiping a smear of blood off your cheek.

“Look at me, love. You’re safe now. I told ya, I wouldn't let ‘em touch ya." You couldn't stop the tremors so he pulled you into his space, tucking your head against his chest. He smelled of grime, blood, and cheap tobacco..a scent that usually spelled trouble, but now, it felt like the only anchor you had. He held you firm, his hand stroking your hair in a way that was almost tender. "I know, I know it was a lot," he murmured ,his breath fanning against your hair. "Just breathe. You’re with me, yeah? No one’s gettin’ anywhere near you."

You stayed there for a long moment, the fear slowly giving way to a different kind of sensation..the heat of him, the steady beat of his heart under your ear. As you calmed down, you realized just how close you were, and the fear began to morph into a sharp, undeniable ache. You felt the dampness spreading between your thighs, your body reacting instinctively to his proximity.

Billy sensed the shift immediately. His hand dropped from your hair to your waist, his fingers digging in firmly. He pulled back just enough to look at your face, his gaze dark, predatory, and entirely focused on you. "Still shakin', are ya?" he rasped, his voice dropping to a gravelly hum. "Only this time... it ain't just fear anymore, is it, pet’?"

He didn't wait for an answer. He shoved the driver’s door open and hauled you out, ushering you into the back seat. He pulled you down onto his lap his eyes locking onto yours with a predator’s focus. He fumbled with the buckle of his belt, the metallic clack loud in the confined space, and he shoved his trousers down. With a rough, efficient motion, he grabbed the waistband of your trousers and panties, sliding them down your legs and kicking them aside so you were completely open to him. He reached between your legs, his fingers immediately finding just how ready you were.

"Bloody hell," he growled, his voice thick with hunger. "You’re absolutely soaked for me, aren't ya?"

He gripped your hips with those massive, scarred hands, forcing you down onto him. You let out a gasp that turned into a broken whimper when he filled you completely.

"That's it, love. Take it," he grunted, his head falling back against the headrest. His hands left your hips to claw at your hair, pulling you down until you were forced to meet his intense, heated gaze. "You think you were scared? I'm gonna make you forget every single thing that happened up there. You're mine now, yeah?"

He pushed up into you, his rhythm becoming a relentless and demanding force. He was controlling every inch of you, his hands roaming your body to leave his marks wherever he pleased. The friction was dizzying, and as the pressure built, you couldn't take the intensity of his gaze anymore. You buried your face into the crook of his neck, your breath coming in sharp, desperate hitches.

"I'm... I'm gonna cum," you whispered, the words barely a soft gasp against his skin.

Billy let out a rough, guttural sound, his movements speeding up until he was driving into you hard. "Yeah? Good. 'Cause I'm right there with ya, pet'." He gripped your hips even tighter, his voice dropping to a low, possessive growl against your ear. "You take all of it, yeah? You take every drop inside that tight, pretty pussy of yours. Make sure you feel it."

As you shattered against him, he thrust into you one last time, pinning you against his chest as he followed you over the edge. Both of you collapsed into the backseat, the adrenaline finally, completely, giving way to pure, exhausted bliss.

He didn't let you pull away, his arms locking around you, holding you firm against his heartbeat. "That's it Love'," he whispered into your hair, his voice once again that dangerous, gravelly rumble. "You’re good for me. You’re so fucking good."

———-

My requests are still open for any smut or fluff scenarios you’d like me to write!

[archupnet]

Ventilation How to Create a Healthy and Sustainable Indoor Environment

To create a healthy and sustainable indoor environment through ventilation, focus on both natural and mechanical options. Natural ventilation involves opening windows and doors to allow fresh air in, while mechanical systems, such as exhaust fans and air to air heat exchangers, provide consistent and controlled ventilation, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. When implementing ventilation strategies, factors such as the type of activity, air quality, and building design should be considered.Have you ever noticed how fresh the air feels the moment you open a window after spending hours in a closed room? That’s ventilation at work and it’s more important than it might seem.Modern industrial buildings rely on efficient ventilation systems to maintain a healthy and safe working environment, complemented by adequate lighting for operational efficiency.What Is Ventilation, and Why Does It Matter?At its core, ventilation is simply the process of replacing stale indoor air with fresh outdoor air . But this simple act has powerful benefits:- Provides enough oxygen for healthy breathing.- Removes carbon dioxide and other pollutants.- Controls humidity and prevents mold growth.- Reduces excess heat from lights, appliances, and people.- Eliminates unpleasant odors like those from cooking or bathrooms.- Enhances comfort through gentle air movement.These benefits make one thing clear: ventilation isn’t a luxury it’s a necessity .Types of Ventilation Systems: Natural vs. MechanicalWide-open windows in homes offer direct views of nature, enhancing feelings of freshness and mental well-being.1. Natural VentilationNatural ventilation uses forces like wind and temperature differences (stack effect) to move air through a building. It doesn’t require electrical equipment just smart design that allows air to enter from one side and exit from another.How It Works:- Wind effect : Air flows into the building through windows or vents and exits from the opposite side.- Stack effect : Warm air rises and escapes through high openings, drawing cooler air in from below.Sustainable architectural design using natural materials like wood and bamboo to create an interior filled with natural energy and comfort.Best For:- Traditional homes- Low-rise buildings- Areas with consistent, mild windsPros:- Very cost-effective- No energy consumption- Minimal maintenanceCons:- May not be sufficient on hot days- Hard to control preciselyIndustrial fans are a crucial component of mechanical ventilation systems, providing directed and sustainable airflow in industrial and commercial buildings.2. Mechanical VentilationWhen natural ventilation isn't enough, mechanical systems step in using fans and ducts to ensure continuous, reliable airflow.A. Mechanically Assisted Ventilation (MAVS)Uses small fans to extract stale air or supply fresh air. Can be controlled manually or automatically using sensors for humidity or occupancy.B. Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR)A smarter system that includes a heat exchanger. As warm indoor air leaves, it heats up the incoming fresh air saving energy without sacrificing comfort .Pros:- Precise and adjustable airflow- Works regardless of weather conditions- Ideal for extreme climatesCons:- Higher installation costs- Uses electricity- Can create noise if not installed carefullyElectrical appliances like outdoor AC units provide comfort in homes and buildings, but they require mindful use to avoid excessive energy consumptionComparing Natural and Mechanical VentilationFeatureNatural VentilationMechanical VentilationCostVery lowModerate to highEfficiencyDepends on environmentSteady and adjustableMaintenanceMinimalRequires regular checksControlLimitedHighly controllableNoiseSilentSome noise possibleEnergy UseNoneModerate to highDucts: The Pathways of AirflowIn mechanical systems, ducts carry air throughout the building , and their shape and size matter a lot.They can come in different forms:- Round ducts : Most efficient with minimal resistance.- Rectangular or square ducts : Used when space is tight.- Oval ducts : A middle ground between efficiency and space-saving.Design considerations include:- Appropriate air speed- Friction losses- Leak prevention- Easy cleaning and maintenanceModern kitchens prioritize clean, functional designs, incorporating natural materials like wood to add warmth to the interior space.How to Calculate Ventilation NeedsTo size your ventilation system correctly, use this simple formula:Q=3600Room Volume×Air Changes per Hour​Example:A room measuring 1800 m³ with a recommended 6 air changes per hour:Q=36001800×6​=3m³/sOnce you know the required airflow, you can select the right duct sizes using charts or specialized software, factoring in air speed and friction.Virtual reality technology is used to provide innovative educational or entertainment experiences, allowing users to immerse themselves in new and diverse worlds.The Future of Ventilation: Smarter, Greener BuildingsWith climate change and the global push for sustainability, smart ventilation systems are becoming part of the future of construction . Companies like ArchUp are closely following trends in the built environment, highlighting projects that adopt innovation and redefine how we design and build our cities.Emerging trends include:- Smart ventilation with automated controls- Integration with lighting and cooling systems- Use of eco-friendly building materialsIn SummaryVentilation isn’t just about opening a window it’s a critical system that impacts comfort, health, and energy efficiency . Whether you choose natural ventilation for its simplicity or mechanical for its precision, the right choice depends on:- Building type- Climate- Occupancy levels- Local environmental conditionsUnderstanding these systems helps us build better, healthier, and more sustainable spaces.Want to Learn More?- Follow ArchUp for insights into the latest trends shaping modern construction.- Discover how ventilation can reduce energy use while improving occupant comfort.- Start thinking of ventilation as a fundamental part of building design not an afterthought.ArchUp continues to monitor shifts in the construction sector, documenting innovative projects that redefine how cities are built.ArchUp pagehttps://archup.net/stealth-house-a-hidden-urban-sanctuary-disguised-as-a-rustic-shed/ Read the full article

[oknaview]

Aluminium Sliding Doors and Windows: A Smart Choice for Modern Spaces

In today’s world of contemporary architecture, aluminium sliding doors and windows are becoming a staple in residential and commercial design. Their sleek look, space-saving functionality, and durability make them a popular choice among homeowners, architects, and interior designers alike. In this article, we’ll explore the advantages of aluminium sliding systems and how Okna's wide range of sliding doors and windows elevates performance and style.

Why Aluminium Sliding Doors and Windows?

To begin with, aluminium is known for its strength-to-weight ratio, making it an ideal material for large sliding panels. Unlike traditional wooden or steel frames, aluminium offers better structural integrity without adding bulk. Furthermore, it resists corrosion, doesn’t warp with changing weather, and requires minimal maintenance.

Moreover, sliding doors and windows made from aluminium contribute significantly to natural lighting. Their slim frames allow more glass surface area, which invites ample sunlight, improving the ambiance of any space.

Space Optimization with Sliding Systems

One of the biggest advantages of aluminium sliding doors and windows is their ability to save space. Since they slide horizontally on tracks instead of swinging open, they are perfect for compact interiors, balconies, patios, or offices where space is a constraint.

In addition to saving space, sliding doors help create seamless indoor-outdoor transitions. When used as balcony or patio doors, they connect living areas with nature, offering beautiful views and increased ventilation.

Energy Efficiency and Glass Integration

Another key benefit is energy efficiency. When paired with high-performance glass, aluminium sliding doors and windows help insulate your space, reducing heating and cooling costs. They can be double-glazed or laminated with Low-E glass for better thermal and acoustic insulation.

At Okna, each aluminium sliding system is engineered to integrate with advanced glass solutions that elevate comfort while maintaining a minimalistic appearance. Whether you’re aiming to block external noise or manage internal temperatures, the right combination of aluminium frames and glazing does the trick.

Types of Aluminium Sliding Doors and Windows by Okna

Okna offers a wide variety of aluminium sliding systems tailored to suit different architectural needs:

Slimline Sliding Doors These are perfect for modern homes where aesthetics matter. With ultra-narrow frames and expansive glass panels, they offer an uninterrupted view and flood interiors with natural light.

Lift-and-Slide Doors Ideal for large openings, this system offers enhanced sealing when closed and effortless operation when opened. It’s great for villas, penthouses, and high-rise apartments.

Multi-Track Sliding Windows These windows are practical and stylish, especially in kitchens or areas where ventilation is key. The multi-track system allows wider openings and smoother functionality.

Corner Sliding Doors For designs that demand an uninterrupted corner view, Okna’s corner sliders remove the need for any pillar in the corner, offering an elegant and expansive visual experience.

Sliding with Integrated Mosquito Mesh or Blinds These functional add-ons enhance comfort without compromising on design. Sliding doors can include integrated mesh or internal blinds for added utility.

Aesthetic and Customization Options

Transitioning into style considerations, Okna offers a variety of finishes, including anodized, powder-coated, and wood-grain effects. Customers can choose from a wide range of colours to match their interior palette. Whether you prefer subtle matte black or a glossy champagne tone, there’s an option for every taste.

Custom configurations are also available depending on project requirements. Be it two-track, three-track, or four-track systems, Okna can tailor the sliding solution to your space.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, aluminium sliding doors and windows are more than just stylish additions — they are practical investments in long-term comfort, energy efficiency, and design. With superior quality frames, customizable options, and innovative systems, Okna has emerged as a trusted brand for modern aluminium sliding solutions.

If you're planning to upgrade or build a space that reflects both sophistication and performance, choosing Okna's aluminium sliding doors and windows is a step in the right direction.

[666--satan--666it]

Skylight you can Transform and Improve virtually any Space with Daylight

"Welcome to a world where natural light reigns supreme and transforms your living spaces into havens of warmth and comfort. Introducing the magical skylight – a simple yet powerful addition that can revolutionize any room, from the darkest basement to the smallest bathroom. Say goodbye to dull, dreary interiors and hello to enchanting rays of sunshine that invigorate both mind and body. Join us on an exciting journey as we explore how skylights can brighten up your life in ways you never thought possible!"

What is skylight?

One of the best ways to improve any space is by adding skylights. Skylights are a great way to let in natural light and make a room feel more open and airy. They can also help reduce energy costs by reducing the need for artificial lighting. In addition, skylights can help improve indoor air quality by providing ventilation and helping to control humidity levels.

How does skylight work?

In order to let in natural light, a skylight is placed in an existing roof or ceiling. Skylights work by admitting sunlight through a glass or plastic lens set into the roof. The light is then reflected off mirrors and diffuse panels onto the ceiling and walls of the interior space below.

The benefits of skylight

There are many benefits of skylight, including the following: -Skylights can help improve the quality of light in a space, making it brighter and more inviting. -They can also help reduce energy costs by allowing natural light to enter a space during the day and reducing the need for artificial lighting. -In addition, skylights can help improve ventilation in a space by providing fresh air and helping to circulate stale air. -Finally, skylights can simply make a space feel more open and spacious – something that is especially beneficial in small rooms or confined spaces.

How to choose the right skylight for your home

There are many factors to consider when choosing the right skylight for your home. The first is the size and shape of the window. Skylights come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so it's important to choose one that will fit the space you have available. The second factor to consider is the type of glass. There are two main types of glass used in skylights, tempered and laminated. Tempered glass is stronger and less likely to break, but it is also more expensive. Laminated glass is cheaper, but it is not as strong and may break if not installed properly. The third factor to consider is the angle of the window. Skylights can be installed at different angles, depending on how much sunlight you want to let in. The fourth factor to consider is ventilation. Some skylights come with vents that can be opened to let in fresh air or closed to keep out drafts. Others do not have vents at all. The fifth factor to consider is energy efficiency. Many skylights are now made with energy-efficient glass that helps keep your home cooler in summer and warmer in winter.

Skylight installation tips

If you’re considering adding a skylight to your home, there are a few things to keep in mind during the installation process. First, skylights should be installed on a roof that’s pitched at least 30 degrees. This will ensure that water will properly drain from the skylight. Second, it’s important to choose a quality skylight. Look for skylights with double or triple glazing and an energy-efficient seal. This will help reduce heat loss in your home and keep your utility bills low. Third, when installing the skylight, make sure the flashing is properly installed around the perimeter of the window. This will prevent water leaks. And finally, be sure to caulk around the edges of the skylight after it’s been installed to further prevent any leaks. https://therooftechnician.ca/our-services/skylights/

Conclusion

Skylights are an excellent way to bring beautiful natural light into any room. Not only do they add a sense of beauty and style, but they also save you energy and money in the long run. With so many different styles, shapes and sizes available, you can easily find one that suits your tastes while still providing enough brightness to light up your space. With skylight installation services readily available from professionals across the country, transforming a dark area with daylight is easier than ever!

[mindfulbuildingandliving]

Can an energy plus house produce more energy than it consumes?

What is an energy plus house, also known as a plus energy house?

A passive house usually consumes slightly more energy than it generates. A zero or zero-energy house generates as much energy over a whole year as it consumes. An energy-plus house goes one step further! An energy + house, generates more energy than it consumes. Among other things, it has large windows that provide lots of natural light, a heat pump and a roof fitted with solar panels and solar water heaters. The large stone walls in the house ensures that the temperature can remain as stable as possible. Clay finishing regulates the humidity. On the roof they’ve used paper insulation + a green roof filled with plants for extra insulation. Of course a house like this needs an excellent building envelope.

The basis for this energy-plus house is a solid passive house. Right from the design stage, a great deal of attention was paid to a compact construction, thorough insulation and air tightness, an appropriate orientation, judicious use of glass panes, a sophisticated ventilation and heating system with heat recovery and optimum use of solar energy.

Energy-producing homes, that is what we will be moving towards when it comes to building in the future. The industry is also investigating the possible techniques. Many building professionals believe that in the future, homes will no longer be energy consumers, but energy producers. An Energy Plus home is based on two basic principles: on the one hand, a minimum energy demand, through insulation and innovative energy-saving techniques such as heat recovery and the like, and on the other hand, maximum use of free solar energy.

The optimally insulated home of energy + residential construction is equipped with, among other things, a solar water heating system, a geothermal heat pump and all this in an airtight finish. Energy efficiency is key in this way of sustainable home building.

Video production by https://mindfulbuildingandliving.com/

[africasiatours]

History

For 300 years the Abu Stait Mosque has been Basuna’s main mosque. It was built and rebuilt a couple of times. The latest building was completed 70 years ago, on the very same plot in the center of the village, adjacent to the village’s graveyard serving as the main Friday Mosque and the only funerary mosque in the entire village. A flash-flood and a soil subsidence caused by the construction of a neighboring building, inflicted considerable structural damage rendering the mosque unsafe, and so it had to be demolished.

Urban and Architectural

Project Concept The main concept is the mosque as the “House of God”. A physical space, a House for the One who is beyond space and time, which are nothing but His own creatures. “No human vision can encompass Him, whereas He encompasses all human vision: for He alone is unfathomable, all-aware.” [Qur’an 6:103] “[…] there is nothing like unto Him, and He alone is all-hearing, all-seeing” [Qur’an 42:11] This design is intended to look into the architectural expression of the connection between the physical and the metaphysical, the created and the Creator. The House of God houses His will, which is known to us through His books. The Revealed ‘Written’ Book Kitab Allah al-Massttur (Qur’an and Hadith) and the Created ‘Sensed’ Book, Kitab Allah alMandhur, the Cosmos. The Revealed book shows us His will through a prescribed world view and prescribed worship, while the Cosmos shows us His will through natural order and scientific laws which govern physical existence. His will is that we journey back to Him. The journey must have an Orientation. A Qibla, the point of origin and return, the archetypical House of God, which could be understood by creatures only through the Attributes of Divine Perfection, more famously known as the 99 names of God; The House of houses, represented in this project as the “Cube of Cubes”* which is the prayer niche or Mihrab. Contemplating, understanding and devoting ourselves to the ethical implications and spiritual values of the Attributes -within human capacity- is our earthly journey or Israa, which leads us to our Ascension or Miraaj in endless cycles until our earthly life is over and we carry on in another eternal form of life. These cycles of combined horizontal/earthly/physical/bodily interaction with the Vertical/Heavenly/metaphysical/spiritual creates an upward spiralling force, represented in the apparent Hajj-like counter-clock circumambulation of all four columns bearing the main dome, which is formed by 64 circumambulating blocks in each of the 35 vertical courses. The blocks represent worshippers in their attempt to escape their earthly material being, which shrinks in dimension as they leap up from one orbit to the higher orbit, until the last course of blocks vanishes and becomes one with the heavenly dome. The same force gives the minaret its form, which is also topped by the Cube of Cubes confirming the motivation and orientation. The pendentive-domes take their form and orientation from abiding by God’s will in His Cosmos; respecting the wind behaviour and the principles of solar movement to allow for the God-given breeze and light to shower the interior of the mosque while keeping away glare and heat. A prayer of nature. The first thing the worshippers encounter as they turn from the main entrance into the main prayer hall is a single vertical window overlooking the cemetery, which reminds them of the end of their journey before they turn right to the Qibla to begin their prayers; “Stand upright and pray as if it is your final prayer”.

Description

The Old Mosque:

• Prayer Hall (Men only) = 165.31 sqm , with no room for women at all.

• Structurally unsafe; structural walls cracked and mud roof severely damaged by a surprise flash-flood.

• No minaret, and not a single minaret in the entire village.

• Main Entrance to the mosque goes through the bathrooms and the Qibla axis directed towards the toilets.

The New Mosque:

The new design attempts to increase the capacity of the mosque in terms of the numbers of the worshippers, as well as in the quality of spaces and services.

A main goal was to also bring forth an element of inclusivity, by introducing praying spaces and services for female worshippers, for the first time in the entire village.

Project Statement

The location of the Al Abu Stait Mosque in the hot and arid village of Basuna, in the governorate of Suhaj, Upper Egypt, over a site amidst a noisy, dusty and densely constructed area with encroaching residential buildings, a cemetery, cattle frequently moving back and forth on the road and a weekly makeshift small market right outside the main entrance of this place of worship posed a major challenge. The new building must offer peace and tranquillity for its users and so a few requirements had to be met:

a) Climate control

b) Noise control

c) Dust and undesired odors (caused by farming animals passing in the street)

d) Urban context and aesthetics

e) Budget

f) Access during construction

Approaching every challenge separately made it impossible to arrive at a satisfactory solution. For example, if operable windows were used on the exterior to allow for cross-ventilation that would have meant a poor performance on the fronts of noise, dust and odor control. The decision was to limit openings, at or close to street level, to just the main entrance, while tackling all these challenges at the roof’s higher altitude.

Budget constraints and limited or no machine-accessibility meant that any solution had to depend mainly on manpower and simple tools.

The solution was a hybrid roof system; consisting of a concrete beam gridiron, cast in situ, forming a central square (6.0x6.0m) covered with a main dome, and 108 smaller squares (0.82 x 0.82m) partially covered using pendentive-domes, complemented with fixed and operable glass panels allowing natural filtered light and ventilation for low-cost enhanced thermal comfort.

The main dome was constructed using an Egyptian-made light block made of sand, lime and air, with a density of 0.5 ton/m3, thermal conductivity 0.136-0.132 W/m2.°K, fire rating (relative to thickness) 4-7 hours, sound insulation (dB) 37-48. The remarkable lightness of the block decreased the building’s own-weight, in turn decreasing the required dimensions of all reinforced concrete elements. Its dimensions (100x200x600 mm) were perfect for introducing an original aesthetic, serving the conceptual scheme of the mosque, through employing a special cutting list and a simple staggered tessellation. I had to devise a special steel compass to guarantee the meticulous spatial positioning of every single block regardless of a mason’s skills and accuracy.

Pendentive-domes are a known traditional element, hardly used as an independent element. Their main use is recognised within dome systems, facilitating the transition from square to octagonal plans to finally receive the circular plan of a dome.

In the Basuna Mosque, this element was reimagined as an independent unit, with innovated functions; structurally as a roof system, environmentally as a wind-catcher and skylight, and aesthetically as an independent geometrical object, appreciated both from the interior and the exterior -only from the higher buildings overlooking the mosque-.

The entrance dome is a stacked dome , referencing the historical dome of the Cordoba Grand Mosque, with minor modifications. It serves as a reminder of the rich potential of historical architecture in both the architectural discourse and construction innovations.

This project presents a hybrid roof system utilizing brick and block masonry, aiming to introduce innovative, energy efficient, economic, sustainable and aesthetically creative solutions. It is an attempt towards a new resilient and meaningful architectural paradigm, which seeks to learn from the past in order to create relevant innovations for the future.

#egyptpassion #iregipto #ThisIsWonderfulEgypt #this_is_wonderful_egypt #Ägypten #Egipt #Egipto #egito

[myhouseidea]

Railway Residence is a project designed by Cushing Terrell. Nestled on 4.5 acres in the eastern outskirts of Whitefish, Montana, the Railway residence is located at the nexus of three defining features: the Whitefish Range to the north; Great Northern Mountain, bookended by the Swan Range and Saddleback Mountain to the east; and connecting the two, the Great Northern Railroad. Photography by Gibeon Photography.

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The design of this 3,500-square-foot home captures and frames these landmarks through simple, gabled forms that loosely recall the agrarian vernacular architecture throughout the region. Together with contemporary detailing, the house captures the familiarity of the past while providing the functionality and performance of today.

Basic spaces—living area, home office, music studio, garage and storage—are divided into four primary volumes arranged around a central auto court. The spatial organization enables the family of four to have distinct public and private zones. Short, low-slung, glazed walkways connect the cedar-clad gabled forms and emphasize movement from one zone to another. Windows are pulled up to the underside of roof eaves, bringing a modern sensibility to traditional building forms. A barn, original to the site, has been restored and provides storage and a backdrop for the homeowner’s photography business.

The interiors adopt a European-inspired aesthetic made evident through simple, clean lines and a limited yet warm material palette. White walls and concrete floors—made comfortable through energy efficient, radiant, in-floor heating that’s paired with a heat recovery ventilator—unify the interior aesthetic. Large windows showcase the dramatic mountain vistas. “We went into the project with sustainability and comfort as a priority,” says the homeowner. “I love our windows and our living room…it’s so open and light. We get to watch the sunset on the mountains and see the deer. It feels like we’re outdoors even though we’re in our home.” To accentuate the views in the living/dining room, one of the walls angles toward a view of Great Northern Mountain. “It’s a modest design move,” notes Charlie Deese, project architect for Cushing Terrell, “subtly guiding your eye in that direction. It also creates a pocket of space for exterior patio doors to have a little bit of cover.” One of the walls in the music room is also angled, though in this case for acoustical performance rather than to enhance views. The interiors are pulled together by highlighting similar colors and textures throughout the space. A casual breakfast nook immediately off the entry and kitchen is at the building’s southern side, where exterior views are limited. Ample built-in storage keeps clutter to a minimum.

Foundation walls employ insulated concrete forms while exterior cedar-clad walls feature a rain-screen assembly with continuous insulation and blown-in cellulose cavity insulation—a 50% improvement over code minimums and equivalent in cost to the typical spray-in foam/batt insulation combination. Easy-to-build, pre-fabricated wood trusses meant sealing, insulating, and naturally ventilating the concealed attic spaces were easy to accomplish. High performance doors and triple-pane windows round out the performance initiatives.

From the placement on the lot to the simple cedar siding to the accents of texture and color throughout, all these elements together create a sustainably responsible house that celebrates family life and the surrounding landscape.

Cushing Terrell Project team David Koel, PM, Principal in charge Charlie Deese, Project Manager, Lead Designer, Architect Shawn Pauly, Design Professional

Consultant team Architecture: Cushing Terrell Contractor: Mindful Designs Interior Design: Tate Interiors

Railway Residence by Cushing Terrell Railway Residence is a project designed by Cushing Terrell. Nestled on 4.5 acres in the eastern outskirts of Whitefish, Montana, the Railway residence is located at the nexus of three defining features: the Whitefish Range to the north; Great Northern Mountain, bookended by the Swan Range and Saddleback Mountain to the east; and connecting the two, the Great Northern Railroad.

[flock-talk]

How do I know my things are safe? Like I just saw you talking about hair dryers and scented products and wood and so on- like everything. I don't know where to even begin

So I’m gonna write down as much as I can think of, if anyone else wants to chime in on household hazards feel free to!

Here’s a link to my list of safe/ unsafe fruits and veggies, it’s a constant work in progress and please don’t take it as a be-all-end-all list, always check multiple sources before feeding new things to your birds:

https://flock-talk.tumblr.com/post/98788015943/i-made-a-list-of-food-and-wrote-down-if-they-were

Common Household Hazards:

Teflon/ PTFE/ PFOA - when it enters their lungs it bursts the capillaries causing the lungs to fill with fluid - found in non-stick pans, hairdryers, new ovens, microwave popcorn bags, space heaters, irons, parchment paper, light bulbs.  Basically anything that has to be repellant or withstand head has the potential to have teflon in it so always double check.

Aerosol sprays - irritate the lungs, cause inflammation, depending on what’s being sprayed may enter the bloodstream and cause toxicity poisoning, etc. - cooking spray, air freshener, body sprays, carpet cleaners, perfume, household cleaners, pesticides etc.

Artificial Scents - irritate the lungs, cause inflammation, depending on what’s being sprayed may enter the bloodstream and cause toxicity poisoning, etc. - Bath bombs, contaminated essential oils, air fresheners, wax melts, candles, most household cleaners, etc.

Candles - Combustion reaction causes O2+heat to be released, the excess released mixes with naturally occurring molecules in our environment (C, H, O) creating Carbon Monoxide and Carbon Dioxide as a result of the reaction. Birds will breathe in and process twice as much CO2 + CO as we will, when exposed to the chemicals they may have lung irritations, respiratory distress, carbon monoxide poisoning, tissue damage, death  - ANY CANDLE, doesn’t matter if it’s beeswax, soy or an artificial perfume-filled one.  The burning alone causes enough irritation and inflammation in their lungs to stop them from breathing

Glass - Birds need time to develop essential neuropathways needed to fly, see, react, and respond to a hazard, time needs to be taken to teach them that glass is an obstacle they cannot fly through or they may fly in to it and get seriously injured - Mirrors, windows

Moving Objects - Flailing moving things are difficult to avoid especially when panicked or scared,  Birds may fly in to them and get injured - Ceiling fans, swinging doors

Heat - Birds can’t sweat to release heat, without proper ways to lower their body temperature they will overheat, heatstroke, lose consciousness, brain damage - cage in constant direct sunlight, room with poor ventilation, hot lightbulbs (feathers are very flammable so keep them out of reach and replace hot bulbs with low-heat fluorescent bulbs).

General Airborne Contaminants - their lungs are extremely efficient, the tiniest amount of contaminants will pass in to their bloodstream and wreak havoc in their bodies - kitchen fumes, car fumes, laundry fumes, bathroom fumes, bird dust etc. having a HEPA filter will help reduce the risk

Gram-Negative Bacteria - Healthy birds have the capacity to process very tiny amounts of this bacteria but exposing them to a lot of it will make them sick - Your mouth/ saliva, your nose, dog/ cat saliva, dog/cat fur, dog/cat nails, dog/cat nose

Electrical - Birds will chew anything they can get their beaks on, risks of electrocution are pretty straightforwards - power cords, cables, lamps, phone chargers, etc.

Their own size - Birds are curious creatures and often wander on the ground exploring, keep a close eye on them they can easy get stepped on or caught somewhere 

Heavy Metals/ Galvanized Metals - being exposed to or chewing heavy metals may cause toxicity poisoning, neurological damage, or death - Jewelry, screws/ hardware, buttons on coats, metal furniture, any metal object that you don’t know the source of should be treated as a potential risk

Unsafe Wood - treated wood or toxic wood if ingested or often contacted may make a bird ill, toxicity, etc. - there’s lots of lists online for safe bushes and trees, watch that birds don’t chew furniture of unknown sources or use wood beads on toys if you don’t know it’s source.

Water Quality - Some places use heavier doses of cleaning chemicals (chlorine, etc.) to make water safe for us to drink, may have heavier mineral contents or Ph balances that can make birds ill, or be too much for them to process - read up on your location, if you’re uncertain use a filter or buy filtered water

Household plants - Some pollens may irritate the lungs, some birds do have allergies, many plants are toxic should they breathe in the pollen or ingest the plant - read up on safe household plants to have around birds, keep uncertain plants out of reach