Mike Upwall is an Architect of Architects. I have seen many homes nationwide and few that have wowed me as Upwall continues to do. Mike has shown throughout Utah how homes should be built. It is evident when you walk into an Upwall that Mike does not like to cut corners on his work. The beauty of his exteriors are met with amazing interiors. The stairways in these homes are what master builders have been trying to achieve for decades. The stonework is found inside as well as outside, with timbers, fine cabinetry, windows, furniture, furniture placement, appliances, details, details, details... Mike is good at details. These photos are courtesy of upwalldesign.com

uch has been written about eco-homes and making your home environmentally friendly, but mostly from the architectural perspective. Unfortunately little has been said about the relationship between interior design and sustainability.

According to the World Commission on Environment and Development, green or sustainable development is 'development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs'.

In some respects interior design is an emblem of consumer culture and at its worst is a contributor to the throw-away society found in many developed societies in the late 20th century. But 2008 was the year that people generally started to consider the impact of their carbon footprint on the environment.

ou can create a luxurious and very special place for baby by selecting furniture available for delivery a few weeks before the little ones arrival. There is a wonderful selection of nursery furniture available for every lifestyle and budget.

The most privileged will plan out the an elaborate nursery months in advance making selections from a wide array of select custom pieces to complete their child's nesting area. Some of these fascinating luxury purchases are designed and built by visionary artisans and craftsman with great talent and skill.

For the discriminating few, custom bassinets available at Lil Sophisticate will give baby a truly luxurious resting place. The foundation of the bassinet itself, the most finely finished handmade wooden trolley and the finest hand-woven willow basket. The skirt and linens are hand sewn from 100% silk satin, 100% pure cotton and organdy. With a price tag of $2,950.00 - $9,500.00, this find is an obvious extravagance only the genuinely affluent can afford.

With the 2008 Utah county parade of homes ahead of us, there is a buzz about getting ideas in the air. The homes that are featured are rich with amazing inspiration that conjure up a wealth of ideas. Many that go through the homes remember one thing after they leave, what the kitchen looked like. Did the kitchen have appliances that matched the cabinetry? How high-tech did the appliances get? How was the flow of the layout? It never ceases to amaze me that when I walk around these homes it is always the kitchen that draws the crowd. Also new to the realm of kitchens is the ever famous outdoor kitchen. This has become a trend in many modern homes to have an outdoor barbecue with all the amenities found inside the home. Everything from outdoor fireplaces to flat screen TV's are all the rage. Just when you thought the only thing you could do in the yard was work, now you can actually throw a party, cook, and hang out with everyone at the same time. Whether outside or in, kitchens are what make the house. Luxury kitchens are what set the standards and the parade of homes is always a treat. Look for designer kitchens in the upcoming parade of homes in Utah County May 30th - June 14th. Salt Lake will be amazing from August 1st - 16th and Park City will be showcased from August 23rd - September 7th. See you there!