Little did I know “Desert Contemporary” is a design style, but now that I’ve seen it, I’m a fan. The Las Vegas Business Press reception for the debut of the 2009 Book of Lists was an elegant affair, held at Blue Heron’s Marquis Las Vegas. The networking event drew over 300 business folks plus Howard Hughes (well, fabulous HH impersonator Michael Parris Newman). Top notch catering was provided by the uber-student-chefs of Le Cordon Bleu who circulated with yummy canapes — the stuffed mushrooms were incredible. But back to this amazing party house — 9,000 square feet on four floors (yes, there is an elevator) of the latest green technologies make it a net-zero energy home. The indoor/outdoor living spaces are jazzed up with an ultra-modern take on vintage Vegas decor. As for outdoor living — the walls disappear, making the transition from in to out seamless. There’s an outdoor living room with a two-story fountain and THREE televisions, an outdoor bedroom and even an outdoor shower. According to the RJ’s article on the New American Home, it is best described as Jetsons meet the Rat Pack. Best yet, Stephens Press was invited to provide the literary vibe, hosting four Las Vegas Review-Journal columnists and SP authors including John L. Smith, Heidi Knapp Rinella, Steven Kalas and Geoff Schumacher. Guests enjoyed the chance to talk to their favorite columnists and we even sold a few books. All in all, a first class event with kudos to Michelle Stewart and her able team from the Business Press.
The ONLY way I will ever believe that a 9,000 square foot home is “net zero energy” use is if it OFF the grid, which I seriously doubt. Green indeed. Sheesh. Otherwise I like “desert contemporary style”. But this kind of of ostentatious over consumption isn’t something to celebrate anymore.
Prediction: A bestselling genre of books this year will be “frugal tips your depression era grandma never taught you.”