SUBSTAINABLE DESIGN AND IDEAS FOR KITCHENS AND BATHS

SUBSTAINABLE DESIGN AND IDEAS FOR KITCHENS AND BATHS

ONE SIZE FITS ALL” is no longer the rule. Appraisers and banks evaluate a bathroom as “FULL BATH” with a tub. However, more and more families are opting for just a large walk-in shower! Depending upon your home appraiser, this could affect the value; however, if a shower is a universal design (having no curb) for convenience and wheel chair access, the appraised value could be greater.

Appliances used to all be matching – stainless and the same manufacturer brand. Today, the trend is mixing up the scheme. Double ovens no longer have to be stacked. Refrigerators no longer side by side or 30” to 40” wide. Dishwashers are raised for convenience. The placement of appliances is changing as family lifestyles change. T.V. in the kitchen along with computer stations is a must. A drop station for those transport: keys, phone, etc. 

Kitchens are downsizing and even divided into two areas instead of one big kitchen. Combining use of space is also on the minds of several home makers. 

Green trends are turning homeowners to consider downsizing and doing a makeover by recycling existing materials and products.

According to a survey by Kitchen and Bath News, over 25% said they prefer recycled materials and energy efficiency was their no. 1 concern. Some green-energy savings products include: 

·   R-100, a 1 ¼” thick counter surface that is made of recycled glass and tile by Richlite Co. 

 ·   Avalanche water closet by Gerber fixtures, a 1.28 gal. per water flush.

·   Wood counter product call “Kirei Board” made from sorghum plant stalks with no added urea formaldehyde adhesive and will not emit toxic formaldehyde.

·   Whirlpool side buildings, they are built permanently and with permanent solutions. With this, permanent solutions promote a design approach that provides multiply uses of a single element. The political differences also influence the approach, to sustainable building. Local government should immediately push for:

·   St. Charles Cabinetry provides steel case cabinets in brushed stainless with over 20 powder coated colors available for that high tech look.

·   Vetrazzo is a recycled glass that is used for countertops.

·   Icestone is also a recycled glass and concrete material used.

·   Lutron sensors and controls can save 60% on lighting energy. www.lutron.com.

Top Notch, Your pioneer for energy-efficient construction and green products for over three decades.

For building material calculator, go to www.EstimateConstructionCostFirst.com.