The kitchen is the hub of the home. Not only does it need to look good, but it should also be ecologically friendly. The key is to focus on water efficiency, energy efficiency, and sustainably sourced materials to transform your kitchen into a truly sustainable space! Looking for green renovation ideas to implement in your kitchen remodel? Check out these top eco-friendly kitchen design tips and ideas! From energy-efficient appliances to sustainable materials, you can create a green kitchen that allows you to save money and help protect the environment.
Choosing the right cabinetry
With the rise of the green movement, we are spoilt for choice when it comes to sustainable materials. Low-impact materials such as plywood, eco-board, oriented strand board, or even recycled timber can give your eco-friendly kitchen cabinetry a rustic-chic look. Floors can be laid using linoleum, cork, or resin. Stainless steel is an excellent choice for countertops, backsplashes, and hardware, lending an industrial look to your kitchen space when paired with exposed brick and black appliances.
Earth-friendly kitchen cabinetry materials and finishes offer a host of health benefits for you and the planet. Here is a rundown of some innovative eco-friendly cabinetry options.
Renewable wood—bamboo:
While bamboo is a wonderful flooring option, it also makes for a beautiful cabinetry option. Bamboo cabinetry has an unusual yet attractive grain that can add a unique aspect to your kitchen. This hard-wearing material is a rapidly renewable resource and is considerably stronger and harder than most other hardwoods. Bamboo not only regenerates in less than a decade but is also much better for the air quality within your home. Consider setting an FSC-certified bamboo product in a darker wooden frame for an exotic look.
Formaldehyde-free alternatives:
If you want to keep it green, it is best to err on the safe side with formaldehyde-free and low-VOC cabinetry material alternatives, including FSC-certified plywood, bamboo plywood, and agrifiber boards, which make smart use of agricultural by-products, an annually renewable resource. In addition, formaldehyde-free custom cabinetry can be super stylish in kitchen design.
Salvaged or reclaimed wood cabinetry:
The most sustainable option, salvaged and reclaimed wood, delivers richness and personality with its history and makes for wonderful eco-friendly cabinetry. Reclaimed wood is wood previously used in the construction of buildings, whereas salvaged wood remains in its natural state. Both options can add a lot of character and history to your kitchen. Lather on a nice stain and non-toxic wood sealer, and you will be on your way to a beautiful, environmentally-friendly kitchen.
Wood veneer:
With just a thin slice of wood adhered to a substrate, a veneer can provide the same look and feel of wood without using an excessive amount of valuable hardwood. As a result, a wenge veneer for your kitchen cabinetry can prove just as luxe as solid wood.
Are you interested in going green with a sustainable kitchen remodel? So are we! Contact Schrapper’s Fine Cabinetry, Inc. today to schedule a free consultation with our seasoned design experts and let us guide you through an eco-friendly kitchen design.