Upcycle Ottoman :: Gus Modern

The Upcycle Ottoman is upholstered using a supply of surplus jute bags previously used to transport fair trade, organic coffee beans. The durable bags, which would otherwise be thrown away, have been repurposed to make an original accent piece. The jute features screen-printed stencils and logos which identified the original goods, making each ottoman completely unique. Bench-Made in Canada.

Upcycle Ottoman by Gus Modern: $425

Food and Water House

It's really inspiring and encouraging to see modern homes designed with the idea of self-sufficiency in mind.  The Food and Water House by San Francisco's Studio Terpeluk positions a large vegetable garden just outside the kitchen, while cisterns located below the roof harvest rainwater, a geothermal cooling/heating system conditions the home, and clerestory glass with deep overhangs provide natural light without added heat gain.

The home boasts an impressive 2,200 square feet with 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, and a two-car garage, all designed to fit within a typical 60' x 120' suburban lot.

Plans for the Food and Water House can be purchased from Hometta, a collaborative of designers, architects, and builders determined to improve the residential landscape - one house at time.

Click here for more detailed info about the Food and Water House, as well as plans and images.