A Greener, Open Floor Plan Transforms This Home
2013 NARI CAPITAL COTY, MERIT AWARD WINNER, GREEN REMODELING INTERIOR
This couple wanted to update their kitchen and first floor, using environmentally-friendly products in the process. Making it green, safe and contemporary were the goals of this renovation.
The new kitchen layout with the center island has made getting around this central kitchen more possible. Taller, custom cabinetry has improved the overall storage and accessibility. The open concept design makes the space the hub of the home.
Green, safe and contemporary features make this project the jewel of the neighborhood. These features include:
• Use of custom-made Douglas Fir slab cabinetry (engineered wood veneer from younger growth trees) with low shin finish (low VOC water based finish) and kilned dried select hardwood frames construction without use of any formaldehyde glues.
• Use of no VOC paint on entire interior and exterior.
• Manufacturing and installing 12” x 12 ft x ¾” solid birch hardwood floor for entire first floor. This was finished with Low-VOC water based finish.
• Reuse of some of the existing lumber and plywood in the same project was essential.
• Installing LED recess lighting and task lighting with Lurton Home system lighting management and controllable low voltage dimmers.
• Installing high efficiency with the highest rating of Energy Star appliances.
• Installing high grade closed cell insulation in walls and open space, caulking and sealing all open gaps.
• Install large double pane-low E, argon filled gas windows.
• Use of air tight insulated duct chases on all new ducts.
The homeowners, who are active members of wildlife preservations, are pleased with green and environmentally safe kitchen and entire first floor project.