Out of all the rooms in a home, the kitchen presents the most opportunities to green things up – simply because there are so many elements to consider. There are green materials choices for cabinetry, countertops, finishes, and flooring. Green options for sinks, faucets, lighting, and windows. Focusing on energy efficiency gives you good bang for your buck in the kitchen, too. Did you know that as much as 15% of home energy use is expended in the kitchen?
The “bones” of your kitchen design can also play a huge role in energy and resource efficiency. Shorter plumbing runs make hot water delivery more efficient. Skylights can help reduce energy use. Even the location of your appliances matter. For example, a significant amount of energy can be saved by placing the refrigerator out of direct sunlight and away from heat-generating appliances, as well as by ensuring ample air space around appliances to vent off ambient heat. Take some time to explore our articles with more tips, and enjoy perusing our product and project inspiration!
I.M. Pei and Araldo Cossutta’s modernist architecture extended to Hyde Park, Chicago in 1961 with the design of the now-historic University Park Condominium. Elemental Green enlisted local architect Richard Kasemsarn to help give one of the penthouse units a green makeover while staying true to its modernist beginnings.
Every year, millions of gallons of paint end up going to waste, with much of it ending up in our waterways and landfills. Recolor collects unused paint and remanufactures it as a healthy paint option for any eco-renovation, including our own #EcoRenovate.
Imagine solar panels that can take air and turn it into fresh drinking water for you and your family. Source Hydropanels have figured out a way to make this not-so-crazy concept a reality.
Are you planning to renovate your home? The product choices you make can have a huge impact on your health and the planet. Elemental Green’s Founder and CEO Sheridan Foster gives us some such examples as she walks us through our first branded renovation in Chicago’s Hyde Park.
Step inside a 1960s historical gem in Chicago, originally designed by I.M. Pei and Araldo Cossutta, as Elemental Green sustainably renovates a penthouse unit.
Energy-efficient appliances and sustainable materials are sure-fire ways to make your kitchen more eco-friendly. But starting with these small daily routine changes can set you on your way to becoming more considerate of the environment.
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