Oct 27, 2010

Green is gorgeous


Take a look at the luxurious appointments to this small space kitchen. The challenge was to transform a dark galley kitchen into a transitionally styled, “green” space - adding extra appliances, seating, and storage - using only the existing footprint.  Daylight now floods a well-positioned U-shaped work center by adding a dual-paned glass door and window, and removing the wall adjoining the dining room.  Occupancy sensors were added to LED and low voltage fixtures, which add clear task and ambient light with energy savings.  The client states, "Between the great LED under counter fixtures and pendants, and all the new daylight in my kitchen, I hardly ever turn on the overheads." The glamorous recycled glass back splash and pendants reflect light onto low VOC sealed granite counters, and back into the room.  A wall of energy-saving appliances enables cooking efficiency; tucking appliances into cabinets offers function without compromising style.  The client gained her special baking center and a microwave without reducing counter space or losing storage.  Clean lined cabinetry from FSC certified wood is outfitted with ergonomic pullouts.  Balancing the cabinetry is a neutral colored, sustainable porcelain tile - with radiant heat for energy-conscious warmth – in a running brick pattern.  Framing the pass-through with light cabinetry adds  new pantry storage and display space while maintaining openness in the 11' x 16' space. The result: an enduring kitchen with superb function, luxury aesthetics and sustainability.