Healthy Design Home

Bed & Bath Design : Episode BDE-1005 -- More Projects »
Host Joan Kohn visits the "healthy design" home of architect William Maclay and his wife, Alex. Non-toxic and recyclable materials were chosen for the home whenever possible. The uncluttered master suite, which includes the bedroom, walk-in closet , bath and deck, is full of light and interesting angles created by the home's sloping roof lines, which continue down to the first floor.

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The focal point of the bedroom are the four square windows that let in the early morning sun.
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A lighting valance trimmed in birch is used in the bedroom above a partial wall and in the bath.

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The bathroom is finished with dark green tiles made from recycled automobile window glass. The window sits just above to the tub to provide views with privacy.
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Green tile is mixed with white in the shower to make the space lighter. A small square window in the shower also adds light.
  • The master bedroom, like the other bedrooms in the home, uses space sparingly, since most activities occur in the large family spaces. The high, angled ceiling creates a sense of grand space in the small room.
  • The flooring, trim, built-in cabinets and bathroom vanity are all made from birch harvested from the property.
  • The walls are made of skin coat plaster, which has the pigment mixed in and so requires no painting. The plaster also adds texture.
  • A fresh air system improves the room's air quality.
  • Behind the bed is a partial wall that is lit with a valance trimmed with birch . Behind the partial wall is the walk-in closet.
  • The bathroom is tiled in a deep green marble made from recycled auto glass.
  • The tub is raised and sits under a window that provides wonderful views as well as privacy.
  • Small square windows are scattered throughout the suite to frame interesting views.
  • The counter top is Vermont marble.
  • Since the bathroom itself is so narrow, the counter tops remain narrow but house a large sink that curves out beyond the edge of the counter.
  • The large shower, lined with green and white tiles, has a small window to let in light and views.
  • The lighting valance in the bath uses frosted glass, so light beams both upward and down.