Amazing Design in a Free Standing Fireplace

Now this is a design wonder. From Eco Smart Fire, this is the Igloo. It has a 'toughened glass surround' with a stainless fire tray. Follow this link to see some great photos of this fireplace in a variety of different residential settings:

http://www.ecosmartfire.com/en/freestanding-fireplace-designs/contemporary-igloo-glass-fireplace

The fireplace is fueled with denatured ethanol which is an environmentally friendly and sustainable resource.

Check out their website for more designs and styles. This is such a unique way to add a fireplace to your home without construction.

http://www.ecosmartfire.com/

No or Low VOC Paint Options

Painting is of course one of the best ways to freshen the look of any home. But recently the issue of VOC's (volatile organic compounds) has arisen. VOC's are found in most paints and they contribute that 'just painted' smell. They also can be released into the air for years after painting and they have been linked to a number of health problems.

Stephen Treffinger of the New York Times ran a test of several new paint options that have low or no levels of VOC's. Some of these paints cost as much at $80 per gallon (Farrow & Ball Estate Emulsion) but one of his top picks that he tested was Benjamin Moore Natura. This paint costs $49.95 per gallon and is available locally. Stephen said about the paint "It can be tinted 3000 shades, went on smoothly and was relatively easy to clean.

So in this world of greener and healthier choices, it makes sense to choose a paint that will help to build a healthy environment in our homes.