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Green Waterfront Home in Florida by Design Works Studios

12.07.10 | By
Green Waterfront Home in Florida by Design Works Studios

St. Petersburg, FL Architectural Designer Jimmy Brattain of Design Works Studios was given only two goals for what would be his first green residential project: build a 9,000 square foot home and make it have the highest Federal LEED certification possible.

He did, in fact, accomplish these two goals. The home — located in the highly desirable Snell Isle neighborhood of St. Petersburg — is the first to enjoy Platinum LEED status in Pinellas County and only the fifth in the entire state of Florida. It is also the largest among those five by approximately 2,000 square feet.

New green features include a roof rainwater collection used to flush toilets and irrigate the native landscaping, double insulated doors and windows, solar panels, and LED lighting. All of the plants are 100% native to Florida and the placement helps keep the property’s large shade-bearing oak trees irrigated while also making use of the remaining 20% of rain water.

Inside, the residence was designed with a house-wide “breezeway” system to maximize natural air flow. There is also an elegant entryway rainwater fountain. The meticulously-engineered textured roof system is representative of the entire thought process required to find harmony between luxury design and environmental consciousness. A modernized take on Bahamian-step style cleverly makes minimal of the home’s 28 solar panels while directing 80% of rainwater to be re-used in the home.

Jaime Derringer, Founder + Executive Editor of Design Milk, is a Jersey girl living in SoCal. She dreams about funky, artistic jewelry + having enough free time to enjoy some of her favorite things—running, reading, making music, and drawing.