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GREEN SUSTAINABLE DESIGN- The use of renewable, recyclable, and energy efficient products: Some suggested products are: 1. Renewable woods such as cork and bamboo used for flooring. 2. Reclaimed woods such as old pine and old cypress used for flooring. 3. Recycled carpets that are remade into new carpet squares. 4. Recycled ceramic tiles- to be used in countertops, and as mosaic backsplashes 5. Recycled doors, windows, millwork pieces, mantels- to be reworked and used for cabinetry, furniture... 6. Reuse of old hardware- hinges, knobs, door hardware. 7. Reuse of glass- reworked into window and door units.. 8. Use of hybrid hardwoods, such as plantation grown hardwoods for exterior millwork... 9. Energy efficient appliances and fixtures- those that conserve the use of energy or natural resources, such as water. 10. Lighting- use of energy efficient LED's, compact fluorescents.... 11. Tankless water heaters use less energy as they heat water only on demand. 12. Energy efficient AC/ Heating units.
Some of the latest trends in baths: a. Doorless showers b. Steam showers c. Multi-head showers d. Full 36" height vanities e. Radiant heat floors f. Sometimes separate toilet rooms g. Comfort height toilets h. Tankless water heaters i. Towel warmers j. Overall spa feeling in bath Additional trends for kitchen and baths (according
to the NKBA):
1. Steel counters- creating a sleek, modern look 2. Black and white kitchens- dramatic contrast and visual interest 3. Mirrors- as free standing furniture pieces and back to back at vanities 4. Tin ceilings- to add more visual, symmetrical focal points to kitchens 5. Floating cabinets- creating a cleaner, more spacious feel in the bath 6. Shoji screens- an Asian influence that helps separate living spaces 7. Polished chrome- making a come back in the bath, in lieu of brushed nickel and oil-rubbed bronze 8. Glass elements- turning up in countertops and backsplashes 9. Stone hearths- becoming more common in kitchens
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