When Ilisa and Joshua decided to do a “green” remodel of their late-1960’s ranch house, about the only thing that they didn’t change was the outside building envelope. The transformation of the dark, cramped interior into a modern, open, bright and warm living space restructured, replaced or renewed virtually every component of the home: walls, floors, surfaces, furnishing, doors and windows, landscaping, appliances, etc. In the process, they achieved what may be the most complete “green” remodel that this writer has seen in 5 years of reviewing GreenBuilt Tour sites.

“We’re both environmentalists,” said Ilisa. “We both work in an environmental profession, and we wanted this to be a teaching tool for people. So in our decisions we really tried to be as green as possible – within a budget. If we had to weigh different factors, the green factor generally won.”

The extensive use of Solatubes and skylights means no lights are needed during the day anywhere in the house. Many of the sustainable features here, such as bamboo flooring and instant water heaters, are popular choices for green remodels.

However, there are a number of unique features and items that are solely the result of hours of research – and shopping. For example, the kitchen and bathroom countertops are poured concrete, custom made by a local company. The shower stall features recycled glass tile from Oceanside Glasstile. There is a carpet made from corn oil that was found at Home Depot – the HD staff didn’t even know they had it!

There is literally a story behind every feature in the home, and Ilisa will be happy to share them with you.

Faux wood painting was used to restore worn furniture.

Shower features reycled glass tiles.