Thursday, November 4, 2010
Architectural designer Jimmy Brattain constructs one of Florida's "greenest" homes in St. Petersburg
Posted by Jessica Edmondson on Thu, Nov 4, 2010 at 1:00 PM
What started as a two goal process -- building a 9,000 square foot house and meeting a federal LEED certification -- for Jimmy Brattain’s first “green” residential project, located in Snell Isle neighborhood of St. Petersburg, ended as the first waterfront home to receive the highest environmental rating in Pinellas County. Not only is the house one of 5 largest green homes in Florida, but it also stands apart because of the unique features:
- Largest Platinum LEED certified, highest Federal rating making it "greenest" in the state
- Nearly 100% of rainwater captured re-used on property
- 80% of the previous property recycled
- 100% Florida native landscaping
- 28 solar panels
- Won 5 Aurora design awards, highest ever of national the competition
- First Platinum LEED home in Pinellas County, largest of 5 green homes statewide by 2,000 sq ft
- Distinctive house-wide 'breezeway" maximizes cooler months
When asked about the significant challenges of replacing traditional building materials with the above green equivalents, he answered, “It wasn’t like we had to design the residential equivalent of a Prius,” said Brattain. “Our goal was for visitors to see the beauty first and let the green aspects to be inconspicuous gems.”
With that said, the house itself displays key focal points where the residents can admire the elegant set-up without immediately knowing its eco-friendly affects. For instance, there are minimal stylish displays of LED lighting throughout the house where Brattain has meshed contemporary architecture with Bahamian style.
Brattain not only submerged himself in learning LEED techniques before the construction of the house, but interviewed countless architects for advice on the project. Many sleepless nights and stressful encounters were put into the construction and eventual accomplishment that is Pinellas County’s first Platinum status home.
“This journey that started with a simple request almost two years ago has completely changed my outlook on design and building practices,” said Brattain. “It is an testament to how another’s cause can completely alter someone else’s perspective, forever.”
View more photos of the home here.
Information and photos via Design Works, Inc. (115 23rd Avenue S., St. Petersburg. 727-821-2403)
Latest in Daily Loaf
-
Get out your LGBT Memorial Day weekend calendar
There are plenty of LGBT events to choose from in the Tampa Bay area this weekend: Harvey Milk Day Meet and Mingle, LGBT literary events, Memorial Day celebrations, Gaybor Days 2013 and more.
-
If DOMA goes away, then what?
How exactly will DOMA affect the LGBT community in Florida? A financial advisor gives a quick summary of how it can help your pocketbook.
-
Landmark victory: American Journey has arrived
Not only does it best Ikea as the coolest thing on Adamo Drive, the mural is the largest of its kind in Florida.
- More »
