Jewel Box: A Venice Beach Home Combines Modern Design and Sustainability
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July/August 2009
By Kelly Smith
Although it’s not officially certified, the home was built according to the U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) “Silver” specifications.
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Greening the homeowner
Mangan built the home as a speculative project, without a buyer, which meant he was able to stick to his values without compromise. “If I had a client, I may not have been able to incorporate so many of these green characteristics,” he says.
Though buying a home with green features wasn’t a main priority for homeowner Karen Davidson, she’s glad to have them. “The windows at the top of the tower in the kitchen pull out the warm air,” she says. “I’m just three blocks from the ocean, but the house is never too warm. It’s always pleasant, and I’ve never had a need for air conditioning.”
Since she moved in two years ago, Karen has become an advocate for sustainable choices. “I’m much more energy-conscious than I was, and when people stop by, take photos or walk by curiously, I talk to them about the green features of my home,” she says. “In a small way, I feel I’m doing my own part to educate people.”
Find featured furnishings from the Jewel Box house.
A conversation with the homeowner
What station is your radio set to?
Karen Davidson: Either the Adam Corolla morning show or the Ryan Seacrest a.m. show. Other than that, I listen to traffic info—I do live in L.A.
Any tips for living in small spaces?
Karen Davidson: Get rid of clutter and those clothes you haven’t worn for two years.
What part of the house are you most happy with?
Karen Davidson: The kitchen—it’s open, bright and airy. This is a very modern home, and even people who don’t care for modern design walk in here and feel comfortable.
What’s your home’s best hiding spot for clutter?
Karen Davidson: I’m not a cluttery person, though I do still have breakfast dishes in the sink. I’ll wash them before I leave the house today. My home office is the one room that looks like a tornado has hit.
What leftovers are in the fridge right now?
Karen Davidson: I train for women’s bodybuilding competitions, so the only things in my fridge are chicken, vegetables, salsa and champagne for after my competitions!