Local and Green: The New Brinkmann Hardware Store

Many years ago, BPA started its practice in Sayville, NY, so we were quite familiar with Brinkmann's local hardware and paint store. In fact, we still own and use the barbecue grill they recommended to us twenty years ago.  Helpful service and high-quality products make it quite easy to support this family-owned business. Combatting an era of impersonal corporate big-box stores, Brinkmann's Hardware Store has grown and is currently working with BPA to create a store that will reflect its values: tradition, community, and environmental responsibility.  The 18,000 square foot space will now house hardware, paint, and office space under one solar roof.  Yes, 120 KW of photovoltaic panels combined with a geo-thermal system will set this building on the path to net-zero energy, creating an efficient building which will serve as a model for both its consumers and other commercial buildings.  With one foot planted in the family tradition and the other in the alternative energy future, it is very exciting for us to chronicle this project from start to finish.  Stay tuned!

Little Details, Big Picture

The Nassau County Art Museum in Roslyn, NY featured some of the most interesting contemporary paintings I've seen in a long time.  Using patterns of color, texture, and text, the images remained abstract until viewed through the digital lens of my iPhone.  Ironically, the image could not be captured as the naked eye saw it; instead it morphed into a realistic portrait.  The top image by South African Gavin Rain was created from rings of colorful circles, only to become the visage of a movie star or political activist, an odd juxtaposition for certain.

Oak Beach Goes Pop

In exploring decorating options for the BPA Brooklyn office, the large white walls will clearly need some artwork that pops visually.  I'm beginning to play with some images of BPA projects that might work in a colorful and graphic format.  The Oak Beach house seems like a perfect fit, with its dynamic rooflines and rhythmic forms.  This image is the first attempt; luckily photographer Cliff Gardiner of Klph and John Studio has offered his expertise in this endeavor.