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Designer�s pick: Green Countertop and Flooring Products |
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Written by by Steve Gunderson
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Wednesday, 01 October 2008 |
As a designer who specializes in kitchen and bath design, I have been exposed to every possible color and style of granite for countertops. And to be honest, I am making it my goal to find other materials to propose to clients. There are so many other options out there. Many are being created from material that would have added to our landfills. I hope you consider these options for your projects.
Steve Gunderson is a residential interior designer who works in the Reno area.
www.interiorsbysg.com
Concetto Stone Surfaces by Ceasarstone Hand made from select semi-precious stones, these unique slabs are like jewelry and should be used accordingly. Think: under lit powder room vanity, focal point (kitchen island), or great piece of custom furniture. The possibilities are endless. Like granite, Concetto surfaces can withstand hot pots and pans, however, trivets should always be used on all natural stone products. Cleaning should be approached like any quartz surface. Colors Shown: Amethyst, White-Quartz, Brown-Agate (above).
Available through: Atomic Stone (775-884-4340), Custom Stone Creations (775-324-9776), Duracite (775-351-2304).
Natural Cork Cork flooring is a product of Portugal, which has the largest concentration of trees. The bark of these trees is stripped off annually and grows back completely by the next season. Cork is a completely sustainable material.
Natural cork floors are treated with MICROBAN®, an anti-microbial treatment, to prevent the growth of mold, mildew, and bacteria; to increase the longevity of the floors; and to provide a healthier environment.
These cork tiles add a level of warmth and sound control equal to carpeting.
Various colors and textures shown above.
Available through: Truckee River Tile and Stone (775-826-2551), Nevada Carpet Brokers (775-786-1950).
Vetrazzo Slabs Vetrazzo manufactures slabs comprised of 85 percent recycled glass. The largest proportion of glass comes from curbside recycling programs. Other glass comes from post-industrial usage, windows, dinnerware, stemware, automotive windshields, stained glass, laboratory glass, reclaimed glass from building demolition, and other unusual sources such as decommissioned traffic lights.
This American-made product has the properties of granite and should be cared for in the same manner and, luckily, like aged butcher block, marble, and concrete, signs of living can actually enhance the character of the surface. If you clean messes up quickly, your Vetrazzo will remain unchanged. If you are more carefree, you may appreciate the natural patina that develops as you live with and enjoy your Vetrazzo. Colors shown (above): Charisma Blue with patina, Charisma Blue, Chivalry Blue, Cobalt Sky with patina, Bistro Green with patina.
These and other styles available through: Truckee River Tile and Stone (775-826-2551).
EcoDomo Recycled Leather Floor Tiles EcoDomo tiles contain a minimum of 65 percent post-industrial recycled leather. They have the look, feel, and characteristic fragrance of leather while being made of a recycled material. They are very unique and have exceptional wear and humidity-resistant properties. Normal maintenance includes vacuuming with a soft brush and damp mopping with a well wrung out mop. The company recommends applying wax on a regular basis as needed—generally 3 to 4 times a year for residential traffic.
Various colors and textures shown above.
Available through: Truckee River Tile And Stone (775-826-2551). |
