When Venice architect David Hertz decided to enlarge his home from 2,500 to about 4,400 square feet, the staunch green-design advocate made sure it was environmentally sound - open to natural light and making use of solar energy and recycled materials. (Béatrice de Géa / LAT)
The design was inspired by Indonesian architecture - a sort of Balinese Modern - with mahogany wood along the stairs, trellises and panels, which complement the exterior concrete walls. (Béatrice de Géa / LAT)
Colorado Court’s bright blue panels soak up the sun’s energy in Santa Monica. (Lori Shepler / LAT)
The countertop in David Hertz’s kitchen is made of Syndecrete, a concrete he formulated to contain about 41% recycled content. The material, used throughout the house, helps to moderate temperature levels. (Béatrice de Géa / LAT)
