David Selmela designed the Bagley Outdoor Classroom, a LEED Platinum building at the University of Minnesota, Duluth. To support the idea of outdoor learning, the new sustainable learning center was built on an old, unused volleyball court. The outdoor classroom was envisioned as a patio, supporting courses in biology, physical education and recreation, environmental studies, engineering and many more.
“The outdoor classroom is created by the paved area defined by the fireplace, wood storage and reclaimed wood benches. The indoor classroom is a rhythm of exposed recycled timber structure punctuated by large openings to the South that create the connection between the outdoor class-room and indoor space.”
When protecting your home from the weather, your roof is the first line of defense. Day in and day out, it can cause many problems, including rain, wind, snow, and sunlight. Read more
Curtains are not just fabric for windows but essential elements to a living space's ambience. Apart from privacy, they control natural light, regulate temperature, and enhance interior aesthetics. Curtains frame views, offering a design focal point. They enable self-expression with diverse styles and colours, transforming a house into a home. In essence, curtains are crucial in shaping any living space's atmosphere, functionality, and visual appeal. Read more
• Homeowner equity is the difference between the value of your home and the amount you owe on your mortgage.• Homeownership allows you to build wealth and increase your net worth over time.• You can leverage homeowner equity for financial flexibility and opportunities.• Strategies to maximize homeowner equity include paying off your mortgage faster, renovating your home, and refinancing to take advantage of low interest rates.• When tapping into home equity, understand different types of home equity loans and use a home equity line of credit (HELOC) responsibly.• Considerations for using home equity to invest in real estate include thorough research and seeking professional guidance.• To protect and grow homeowner equity, maintain adequate homeowners insurance, maintain and improve your property, and monitor market trends and home values. Read more