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Focus on the Environment |
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Texas Public Radio is joining with the City of San Antonio’s Department of Parks and Recreation and other partners in xeriscaping portions of Madison Square Park downtown at 400 Lexington Ave. (near downtown Baptist Hospital). In partnership with San Antonio Water System, Texas Parks and Wildlife, City of San Antonio Parks and Recreation, Rainbow Gardens, Gardenville, the Master Gardeners and Master Naturalists, Texas Public Radio and corporate sponsor San Antonio Federal Credit Union have planned a morning that will involve putting in plants and adding soil amendments at the park. Rains left Madison Square Park too muddy as of September 12, so Planting Day at Madison Square Park, originally scheduled for Sept. 13, has been rescheduled for Oct. 4. Planting begins at 8 a.m. Water, coffee & breakfast will be available. Tools will be provided except you should bring your own work gloves. Sign up by calling 614-8977 or by clicking the link below:
Also that day, a series of lectures on related issues will be presented at Madison Square Presbyterian Church Fellowship Hall. The lectures are free and open to the public and will feature: 10:00 a.m. - Dr. Jerry Parsons Recycle! San Antonio Would you like to recycle more but are just not sure what products go where? Texas Public Radio with the help of the City Environmental Office is offering information here on our website to clarify the location of the particular recycle sites. Click here to go to our recycling information page.
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Completed Environmental Events |
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September 6: “Labor Day” at Crownridge Canyon Natural Area Over 60 TPR volunteers were able to get a peek at a nature preserve under construction and help clear the way for nature trails and other areas at Crownridge Canyon Natural Area, a 209-acre nature preserve in the canyonlands of the Balcones Escarpment. When the property opens to the public sometime in 2004, the preserve will have trails for hiking and nature appreciation, along with facilities for environmental education. This community effort was sponsored by Birkenstock General Store and Leather Goods Co. See photos of the event. September 19: Talk of the Nation Science Friday live from San Antonio Ira Flatow will take Talk of the Nation Science Friday on the road September 19 for a special live broadcast from San Antonio. The live, two-hour national broadcast from 1 pm to 3 pm will originate at Brooks City-Base Auditorium 180 and will feature science topics and issues of importance or indigenous to the South Texas area. A live studio audience of up to 250 will be able take part in the show. Sponsors of the broadcast are The SATAI Network, UTSA College of Engineering and DPT Laboratories. Call 614-8977 to attend the broadcast. Click here for a map of Brooks City-Base showing the location of Building 180. September 20: AIA Homes Tour In a unique collaboration, AIA San Antonio and Texas Public Radio have partnered to showcase the importance of sustainability in residential architecture. This year’s 7th Annual American Institute of Architects Homes Tour and Lecture, set for Saturday, Sept. 20, will feature five unique homes, each featuring sustainable or green elements. Texas Public Radio has been given a number of free tickets to the Tour as a benefit of membership. Members, you may reserve your tickets by calling 1-800-622-8977 during regular business hours. Please note these tickets are for the tour only and do not include the lecture. On Saturday morning, September 20, members who have reserved their free tickets in advance may pick them up (along with a map of the tour) between 8:30 - 10:15 at the McNay Art Museum outside Leeper Auditorium. A continental breakfast will be served including pastries from Broadway Daily Bread and coffee from What’s Brewing. Those who are interested in attending the 10:30 AIA lecture featuring Dennis Wedlick, may purchase tickets at the door at a 10% TPR member discount. The self-guided tour of the homes begins at 12 noon and closes at 6 p.m. Keith Zars Pools and Shelly Home Company are our corporate sponsors, making this event in our “Focus on the Environment” series possible. Homes tour tickets are also available at The Twig Bookshop in Alamo Heights (5005 Broadway), Allen & Allen’s Northside Decorative Showroom (920 North Loop 1604 West, between Blanco and stone Oak Parkway) and at the AIA San Antonio offices (816 Camaron in the Finesilver Building). Tickets are $20 (lecture or tour portion only) or $35 for the Homes Tour and Lecture. Homes Tour Lecture Architect and author Dennis Wedlick will lecture on home design principals at 10:30 a.m. Sept. 20 in Leeper Auditorium on the grounds of the McNay Art Museum, 6000 N. New Braunfels. From the beginnings of his career with world-renowned architect Phillip Johnson until he opened his private architecture practice in 1992, Dennis Wedlick has been recognized as a rising star in the architectural world. His architectural philosophies and designs have been featured in The San Francisco Chronicle, The Washington Post, House & Garden, Architectural Digest, Elle Décor, Metropolitan Home, as well as making countless appearances on HGTV, CNN and PBS. Wedlick’s first book, The Good Home, was published in May of 2001. A visual and emotional exploration of America’s love of picturesque houses, the book was tremendously well received. Good House Parts, another new book to be published by The Taunton Press by early October, 2003, will break down the process of home design - both literally and figuratively - isolating the elements that go into good homes. Ideally, Wedlick would describe himself a translator; decoding the vocabulary of architecture and design. He empowers people to describe - and demand and design - their own dream homes. The Homes (click on addresses for pictures) 500
West El Prado The residence at 500 West El Prado, as it was built in 1951, was a typical low-slung ranch style home. Indicative of the style, the interior was a maze of dark hallways and low ceiling rooms, confusing and absent of focus. The house was not only in need of refurbishing, but also required an extensive reconfiguration to meet the client’s modern lifestyle. Through the front entry, a new airplane-wing shaped front door made of solid mahogany gently swings on an offset hinge. The door, a basic grid of glass and mahogany, helps to set up the central theme present throughout the house. Off the entry foyer, the circular shaped powder room presents a sense of drama with an under-lit onyx countertop and backlit mirror. In order to better accommodate entertaining, the large brick fireplace separating the kitchen from the living area was removed allowing for free open space. The removal of the fireplace required major structural revisions to the roof, presenting the opportunity to bring light into the central space by way of a light monitor. The fireplace was then relocated to improve the functionality of the space. Removal of the fireplace also allowed for expansion of the kitchen space and the creation of a more fluid entertaining area. The primary goal in the details and selection of materials was to create a timeless sense of classic modern while avoiding anything too nostalgic. The end result is a fresh, updated interior that reflects the client’s lifestyle without turning away from the historic mix of residences that is Olmos Park. The fact that it is a remodel demonstrates reuse of the existing structure and exterior materials. The mesquite flooring is a local material. Skylight adds generous natural lighting, limiting the use of light fixtures in daylight hours.
424
Argyle The residence located 424 Argyle was originally built in the 1950's by architect Don White for his family. Located on a spectacular lot perched above the Olmos Dam overlooking the greenbelt below, the small mid-century modern home might have been lost to demolition if the present owners had not seen the value in preserving the home therefore not sending the original construction materials to a landfill. Instead, the new owners opted to undertake a detailed restoration that brought the house back to its former pristine state and filled it with their collection of contemporary Texas artwork and mid-century Knoll furniture. The historical significance of the original mid-century regional Texas Modern home designed in 1949 by Architect Don White (where he was to live for the next half century) spoke to the Owners when it was acquired in 2001. They were in need of large expanses of wall space and a restrained backdrop for an expanding contemporary Texas Art Collection. Though the rooms were small, dark and internally oriented, other aspects merited preservation. A complex yet well rationalized expression of the structural system existed and the delicate relationship to the site had stood the test of time beautifully. IT was soon determined that the new structure would expand from these core assets. To address the primary goal, the main level was gutted, and an interior circulation spine created to link a new glazed stairway. The sine and stair function as a gallery space, and are divided from other Public rooms by a series of floating wood partitions used for the display of large canvases. Exterior walls received a new glazing system inspired by the 19th century work of R.M. Shindler. While the glass walls open the house to the site, their mortised mahogany grid introduces warmth and a clear expression of the high level of craftsmanship maintained throughout the project. Pivoting panels within the grid provide access to the terraces and sculpture garden while a new clerestory running above the gallery reflects light from the northeast sky. To extend seasonal usage, the original outdoor Living Room beneath the house was screened and a series of terraces and trails were introduced onto the adjacent hillside, inviting guests to explore the outdoor sculpture gallery.
230
Kennedy The project is a two story painted brick renovation and addition of a historic house that was sold within a family. The original house was built in 1936 at the corner of Kennedy and St. Dennis Avenue in the center of Alamo Heights. The house was bought in 1962 and underwent its first major renovation in 1967. The property was then sold in 2002 to the original owner’s grandson who realized his dream of living in his grandparent’s beautiful house with his own family. The 2003 addition of the single-family residence was designed to provide an East wing expansion to accommodate a master suite and three additional bedrooms totaling five. As the addition progressed it soon became apparent that a full-scale renovation of the old edifice would be encompassed by the project. According to BuildingGreen Incorporated, green construction is the responsible design, construction, and land use in order to reduce energy consumption, protect the ecosystem, and provide a healthy environment for building occupants. The remodeling and additions to the residence at 230 Kennedy are based on these criteria. The design recycled most of the existing house. The foundation, wood frame structure, exterior brick veneer, roofing, and hardwood floors all remained or were reused. Materials were selected on the bases of increasing the longevity and value of the house and property. In the long term this translates into reduced material use by minimizing the need for renovations and repairs. For example, the existing brick was matched on the new exterior. Low impact North American hardwood and natural stone were used on most of the interior finishes. Reduced energy consumption is achieved through the use of insulated Pella windows and ample insulation in walls and attic spaces. Recycled materials were incorporated where appropriate such as medium density fiberboard and Homasote board. The orientation of the addition took careful consideration in preserving the five magnificent heritage oaks on the lot. In turn, these trees enhance the privacy and views of the house while minimizing the heat gain of the structure. The large front porch is enclosed on three sides with two patio doors to the dining room. Natural ventilation can be distributed throughout the entire first floor through these doors. Another green design consideration is the efficient use of space. Efficient space planning allows for reduce room sizes. This translated into less construction material, less energy use, and better ergonomics for the homeowners. Green building is careful consideration of both the current and future issues relating to land use, material selection, energy efficiency, and space planning.
221
Viesca The residence located at 221 Viesca is a Mediterranean masterpiece that unites indoor and outdoor space seamlessly. Sited atop a hill near the Alamo Heights swimming pool, the home is designed to take advantage of cool morning and evening breezes. On the interior, thick white plaster walls provide a cool respite through the long hot Texas summers. The surrounding landscape features a multitude of native Texas plants all of which are drought tolerant. Though the house pays stylistic homage to the romantically inspired Mediterranean Alamo Heights Cottages of the 1920s, its real energy evolves from a spirited dialogue with the unique site. Located adjacent to the Olmos Basin on land that had for many years been considered part of the flood plain, it was important that the new structure integrate with the sensitive native ecosystem. A small footprint was carved from the hillside, and adjacent plant material was protected throughout construction of the deceptively large home. Eschewing the traditional front yard, the house is designed around a series of courts functioning as outdoor living spaces oriented to the prevailing winds and dominant views. Besides directing the breeze through the house, the courtyards allow all rooms eastern exposure to the morning sun. Thought the internal architecture places elaborate emphasis on a controlled ritualistic circulation based upon the daily functions of the occupants - both physical, and psychological, the interior rooms of the house remain loosely defined to allow for maximum flexibility.
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Tower Drive The design goal established by the owner was the creation of a contemporary residence of 4000 square feet; which would serve as a location for their large family events. They wanted the home to take advantage of the large trees on the site with each of the spaces having a unique sense of light and space. Native stone was used on both the exterior and interior with outside fireplaces occurring on the frontcourt and back porch. Stained concrete flooring is used throughout the first floor and easily accommodates a family member’s wheel chair. Bridges link the parking area of the main entry court and the pool deck, also allowing for control of drainage during heavy rains. Green elements of the remodel include reuse of portions of the existing residence, allowing for conservation of materials; orienting the structure to the southeast, allowing for natural breezes; and building around existing trees, which provide shade and sun control. Use of natural light in all rooms minimizes use of light fixtures during daylight. Exposed concrete floors are used throughout the home and windows are all wood with insulated glass and designed for natural ventilation. September 26-28: Texas Renewable Energy Fair
The Roundup is a fun, family-oriented outdoor
environment fuelled by interactive exhibits, great food and wine, and
exciting new technologies. With the price of admission ($8 per day
or $16 for a three-day pass), visitors can choose to attend free workshops
on rainwater collection, straw bale construction, and home power
systems. Families will love the festive environment, with an
alternative-fuel kids' train, rock-climbing, laser-tag, green technology
demonstrations, a premium organic wine tasting, sustainably-produced
beers, and great Texas music. September 29: David Kestenbaum and the “Hydrogen Economy” at St. Philip’s College
Dr. Lanier Byrd, Ph.D., St. Philip's College Vice President of Academic Affairs, will also speak about the potential impact of fuel cell technology on curriculum and programming. A Community College Approach to Fuel Cells: A St. Philip's College Overview presents a synopsis of how this community college is proactively planning for the educational and workforce development opportunities presented by the potential that fuel cells hold as a renewable energy resource for industries and consumers. City Public Service is a sponsor of the event. The free lecture will be in the Heritage Room in the Campus Center Building at St. Philip’s College at 1801 Martin Luther King Dr. Maximum seating is 225. There will be sack lunches available for a donation. Listen to a Morning Edition report by Kestenbaum for more background on hydrogen fuel. |
October 4: Colorizing Madison Square Park
Texas Public Radio will have a booth at the annual fair, this year held
at Market Square in downtown Fredericksburg. The fair features booths presented by providers of renewable energy,
green building and remodeling, organic gardening, and electric vehicles.
The event includes presentations on rainwater collection, strawbale
construction and home power systems. St. Philips College and Northwest
Vista College are sponsors of the Renewable Energy Round-Up.
President Bush and some of the Democrats trying to unseat him seem to agree on one thing; they share a common vision for the car of the future.
It runs on the most plentiful element in the universe - Hydrogen - and its tailpipe emits only water vapor, no exhaust fumes.
But where is this magical gas going to come from? Wind, solar and hydropower could all be harnessed to produce it, but right now most of the world's hydrogen is produced from natural gas.
The nuclear industry is also eager to get involved and some people believe coal may eventually be the cheapest source of hydrogen, so the fight is likely to get ugly.
How serious is the Bush administration about this proposal? Are the Democrats' plans for making hydrogen from renewables realistic?
NPR Science Correspondent David Kestenbaum will discuss these and other not so pretty parts of the hydrogen
dream when he visits San Antonio for
a special free, lunchtime lecture at St. Philip’s College on Monday,
September 29 from 12:00 noon to 1:30 p.m.|
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