Posts by Matthew Grocoff

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Which is better: oil or water-based paints?
My good friend Eric Corey Freed, an architect, is one of the foremost thinkers in sustainable building and named one of the "Top Ten Most Influential Green Architects." He says that after years of talking about "green… More >>
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Repairing historical stone foundations
Many historic homes built before the 1920s have glorious stone foundations. While exceptionally durable and low maintenance, over time they do need to be repaired. The process of removing and repairing old mortar is… More >>
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Easy DIY outdoor kitchen
Outdoor kitchens are all the rage. Little is more luxurious than dining al fresco. But one quick look at any architectural or home improvement website and you'll see that they are usually designed for the biggest homes… More >>
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5 jaw-dropping passive houses
Along with Net Zero Energy homes, "passive house" is one of the hottest housing trends both in the United States and around the world. The standard allows homes to reduce energy consumption by an astonishing 90% or… More >>
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10 killer design ideas for salvaged doors
Doors, doors, doors. Go to any Habitat for Humanity ReUse Center or salvage yard and you'll see rows and rows of unloved but beautiful doors. Ideally, old doors should be repurposed for use as doors to avoid the use… More >>