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!
One of the easiest ways to make a major statement in a kitchen or bathroom is by installing a stunning countertop that becomes the focal point of the room. But some of the most popular materials for countertops are not-so-eco-friendly and some come with a handful of health risks.
Vintage home decor offers a sustainable, creative, and affordable way to furnish. Nonprofits, flea markets, and auctions houses draw crowds. Or shop online.
Fireclay Tile’s handmade tile serves as the design inspiration inside a 1960s kitchen whose sustainable renovation pays homage to its modernist roots.
Fireclay is unique from anyone else in that they hand-make every tile to order using recycled materials and sustainable manufacturing practices. They come in tons of shapes and colors using a natural VOC-free pigmenting process.
Focusing on craftsmanship, salvaged materials, and biophilia, CarbonShack’s first branded home achieved LEED Platinum with a West Coast–shingle mashup style.
Allied with multiple, sustainable manufacturers, CleverHomes is designing modular homes with high-end, contemporary lines and quality finishes and furnishings.
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