Ripple effect

Few of us would argue against choosing materials for our home that use the earth's resources wisely. But does thinking green limit the range of colors or finishes we can choose from, or mean we have to pay more than we'd planned to?

Dave Raymond of Earthstone Surfaces believes not.

"People will generally embrace environmentally friendly products if they don't have to sacrifice functionality, cost and aesthetics," he says. "In the last couple of years, people have been looking for new materials for their kitchens, and I believe the new wave of green products can meet this demand."

He points to three materials in particular that are attracting attention. Richlite, for example, is made from recycled paper and paper from certified forests.

"People assume that surfaces made from paper won't be durable, but this specially manufactured material is hard and dense, non-porous and stain-proof," he says. "In fact, Richlite's primary uses are for skateboard ramps and cutting boards."

Black is a popular color in the Richlite range a solid color with a subtle texture similar to that of black leather.

Another green choice is quartz, he says. The company distributes eight brands of countertop using this abundantly available mineral, including Cambria Natural Quartz produced in the United States.

Cambria countertops are non-porous and heat-resistant, and are Greenguard and LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certified.

Glass surfaces, such as the one shown above from Think Glass, are another option. The non-porous, toughened surfaces are available in several textured finishes.

"The texture makes a strong design statement for contemporary and transitional kitchens, while disguising fingerprints and smudges," says Raymond. "Some of the glass is recycled, and all of it can be recycled years later."

For details, contact Earthstone Surfaces, 511 North Ave, Libertyville, IL 60048, phone (847) 549 9915, fax, (847) 549 9918. Email: dave@earthstonesurfaces.com.

Story by: Trendsideas