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The design of this new kitchen was just as much about sustainability as it was about functionality and aesthetics

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As we head into the second decade of the new millennium a new driver for kitchen design has emerged. Sustainability has become a key consideration for an increasing number of homeowners and designers.

Richard Feis of Greenhaven Group, the company that developed and built this house, says every aspect of the design was influenced by a desire to use environmentally friendly materials and processes.

"This is a show home for sustainability," he says. "We wanted to show that good design does not need to be compromised in an eco-friendly home. Wherever possible we have used recycled materials and avoided formaldehyde and VOC finishes. We have also incorporated energy-efficient lighting and energy-star appliances."

Kitchen designer Emmye Otto says the team undertook extensive research into the manufacturing techniques employed by companies to ensure all the materials and products would meet the sustainable design requirements.

The end result reflects their commitment to both the environment and good design.

"The house has a kitchen-centric design," says Feis. "The kitchen connects to all the living spaces from the breakfast area and great room, to an outdoor entertainment area. This ensures the owners can socialize with family and friends while working in the kitchen."

A large 6ft x 6ft island is the centerpiece of the kitchen. With two sinks, including a long trough, and plenty of countertop space, it is easy for more than one person to work at the same time.

"We wanted the island to stand out, almost like a piece of furniture," says Feis. "For this reason, the island cabinetry is in a rich dark-stained cherry."

The perimeter cabinets, which have a similar transitional door design, have a green, antiqued finish. Green is also the color of the ceramic subway wall tiles. Made from recycled materials, the tiles have a glaze and crackle finish.

Extensive storage is provided by a variety of different cabinets that extend to ceiling height.

"We even continued the high cabinets across the top of the door to the butler's pantry to maximize space," says Otto.

The lower cabinets include pull-out spice racks either side of the freestanding range, recycling bins and a kitchen composter. Further storage and additional appliances, including two wine refrigerators and a second dishwasher, are provided in the butler's pantry.

Cambria quartz countertops were specified for their Greenguard certification and practicality. The countertops have a thick edge, which is reminiscent of traditional European kitchens.

The flooring features river-reclaimed heart pine. Feis says the boards are from 100-year-old logs that were sitting on the river bottom. In keeping with the eco-friendly requirements, the boards were coated with a waterborne stain that provides a natural, untreated look.

Story by: Trendsideas

28 May, 2010

Kitchen

Trendsideas

Home kitchen bathroom commercial design

Color it green

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