Hello!

Thank you for your interest in Sol Haus Design. This is the first ever newsletter, so I hope this allows us to stay in touch with the latest news. You can anticipate receiving a newsletter about once a month. I believe in quality versus quantity, so my goal is to provide fewer emails with valuable content.

Since the birth of Sol Haus Design, many things have been happening, and I'm excited to share the latest with you.

For one thing, our website has been updated. Take a look at the new information regarding our services and the process in which we work. See the updated website here.

We appreciate your stopping in and taking the time. Feel free to send any comments or suggestions. Your feedback is always appreciated!

Warm wishes,
v i n a l u s t a d o

In this issue...

In April this year, Sol Haus Design participated at the Earthday event in Ojai (EarthPlay sponsored by Ojai Valley Green Coalition among others). At the event, the guesthouse prototype was displayed as an innovative approach to affordable, sustainable housing.

As a small 700sf dwelling unit with prefabricated framing, the guesthouse is simple in construction, cost effective to build, and efficient in the use of space. At approximately $140 per square foot, the unit costs under $100,000 with exterior and interior build-out. The details of the guesthouse is now included on the website. Take a look here.

After nearly one year of design and construction (by West Wood Construction), this residential addition (approx 1000sf) in Upper Ojai has been completed. The project consists of a garage conversion to living space which allowed the new outdoor deck to take advantage of the commanding views of Topa Topa mountains. The location of the new garage below the deck involved extensive grading, but the views are definitely worth it.

For more info and photos of the completed project, take a look at our website under Foley Residence.

The guesthouse cottage near downtown Ojai is now under construction (by West Wood Construction). The property consists of large oak trees and a vineyard at the rear. The main residence (pictured above) has an old world charm which the guesthouse will retain.

The rear of the house overlooks the mountains beyond, so the new cottage will be oriented towards the views. The cottage is designed for an elderly man, so "universal design" concepts were employed for potential ambulatory care: wide doorways, minimal use of steps, walk-in shower, grab bars in bathrooms. Take a look at our website to see the details.

For almost two years, I have been a member of the Ojai Valley Green Coalition, whose mission is to advance the Ojai Valley to a resilient and sustainable community. As a non-profit organization, it consists of an amazing group of people who are productive, vibrant and passionate about their cause.

I am currently helping with the design of their new office space in downtown Ojai. The Resource Center will be used to educate and inspire our local community towards sustainable living. They need help in getting furnishings and equipment. If you're interested, please contact me or go to their website.

In February 2011, I wrote an article for the local paper called Ventura Breeze. I discussed the role of the business class I took from Women's Economic Ventures (WEV) prior to launching my business. The knowledge and foresight I gained was undoubtedly invaluable to starting a new business. Read about it here...