LLStyle Story: Family Handyman’s Sustainable Studio | Eco-Friendly Done Right

Sustainability is an important focus in home design today. But transforming your space doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive. In fact, small changes can make a big eco-friendly impact, while saving you money too.

To showcase achievable sustainable techniques, our friends at Family Handyman magazine built an inspiring “Sustainable Studio.” This nature-based retreat combines smart energy and material choices that protect the environment, demonstrate social responsibility, and foster economic savings—the three pillars of sustainability defined by the World Commission on Environment and Development (WCED).

We sat down with Family Handyman’s Brad Holden to learn about this innovative build featuring LL Flooring’s own ReNature Castelo Cork flooring at the Dodge Nature Center in West St. Paul, Minnesota.

LL Style: What inspired the Sustainable Studio?

Brad Holden: We wanted to showcase practical materials and techniques that save energy, help the planet, and are within reach for DIYers. This studio proves sustainability doesn't have to be difficult or expensive.

What were the major challenges?

Our first test was building the eco-friendly foundation on soft, wetland terrain without extensive concrete work. We used helical pier supports screwed into the ground instead—letting us start construction immediately with minimal environmental impact.

What are your favorite design features?

The helical piers worked perfectly. The large reused windows also made the small space feel bigger and brighter. And we loved the reclaimed look of LL Flooring’s easy-to-install cork flooring—it was ideal for this project.

Tips for Creating a Greener Home:

Install energy efficient appliances, lighting, and thermostats
Improve insulation, caulking, and weatherstripping
Collect rainwater for irrigation
Upcycle and reuse building materials
Plant native landscaping that requires less water
Use renewable materials like cork flooring
Limit waste by recycling and composting
Unplug devices when not in use to limit "phantom" energy drain

Get ideas and see how this studio came together at FamilyHandyman.com. Then bring planet-and-pocketbook-friendly solutions into your next remodel!

What are your favorite green home or design ideas? Tag us with #LLStyle!

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ALSO, do you learn about home improvement and design with fun and informative videos? Subscribe to the LL Flooring YouTube Channel to learn more, leave comments or ideas that helped you, and join the community!

In this video, check out a concept from designer Heather Fox for a rental home using solid hardwood flooring to complete an impressive MCM look.