Design Notes
Increasingly, homeowners are not only interested in using eco-friendly products and materials but also in designing their homes to have the least possible impact on the environment. This has led to a rise in zero waste kitchen concepts, with designers seeking to meet their clients’ requests in a way that provides a functional, environmentally friendly, yet stylish kitchen. We know that certain materials are better than others, and incorporating more natural elements into our home is beneficial, but what exactly does it mean to design a zero-waste kitchen or bathroom? We aim to answer that question, while also providing you with helpful tips for your upcoming renovation.
What Is A Zero Waste Kitchen?
Essentially, it is a design concept centered on a minimalist lifestyle, where homeowners only keep the things they use daily, as opposed to a traditional kitchen design. The primary goal of this type of kitchen is to minimize waste in areas such as water usage, trash, and the limited use of products that can be reused rather than discarded. Of course, it is nearly impossible to live completely waste-free, but rather to be less wasteful. One of the main keys to accomplishing this task is to live with intention, thinking about what you use every day and how you could reduce or recycle it instead. A well-designed plan can make this easier than you think.
Thoughtful Design
One suggestion is to buy in bulk and opt for reusable grocery bags, which is a great idea, but that can mean some modifications are needed to your kitchen design. Larger purchases, such as flour, sugar, and spices, require adequate storage space to maintain freshness. A pantry with shelves capable of bearing the extra weight or with space underneath them to place large, airtight containers is a great way to solve this problem. Including additional hooks or even large drawers where you can store all your reusable shopping bags so that they are not scattered around the house can be very beneficial. Composting is another important element for achieving a zero-waste kitchen, but this usually requires some extra thought. Having a double trash can pull-out can be a wonderful option, as all your trash can be taken care of in one simple area. Just be sure to select one that is airtight, so you can empty it once a day without worrying about the smell seeping through your kitchen. Don’t forget about a recycling station. You can choose to have an additional collection station in the laundry room or even the pantry, since there is very little odor associated with this. Additionally, it will make recycling easier for everyone if there are bins with clear labels. A well-thought-out design plan can make all the difference for a zero-waste kitchen or even bathroom.
Think Long Term
When considering a kitchen renovation, itis essential to ask yourself a few key questions, such as: Will this be my forever home? If the answer is yes, then consider what elements are important to you and that will age in place with you. By doing this, you will limit the need for another renovation later, which can also contribute to the zero-waste factor, as we all know that construction is a messy business and waste is unavoidable. Some good things to keep in mind for an aging-in-place kitchen include:
- Lower countertops
- Minimal floor transitions
- Extra drawers
- Durable material
- Additional lighting
Making these small adjustments at the beginning of your remodel will result in fewer adjustments later, and it will also save you money. Consider the materials you select and choose those that will provide the longest lifespan, such as countertops and flooring options. The more durable the material, the longer you can enjoy your space and avoid having to do it all over again. Select cabinets that will handle wear and tear well over the years. Consider your kitchen layout as well; the more detailed the plan and the longer-term thought process, the more likely it will last for a long time.
Eco-Friendly Design Options
There are many eco-friendly design options available, and while they are not the same as zero waste, the goal is still to minimize our carbon footprint. When planning a renovation or remodel, look at options such as:
- Bamboo
- Cork
- Reclaimed wood
- Recycled glass
- Natural lighting
- Natural fabric
These materials will still do a wonderful job of making your home comfortable and beautiful, but are more environmentally friendly. Whenever possible, plan to maximize the natural light available in your home; not only is it aesthetically pleasing, but it also offers several health benefits. Reclaimed wood and recycled glass are wonderful design choices, as they keep these materials out of landfills and turn them into something amazing. Often, they offer unique options that add visual interest to your space as well. When it comes to upholstery and area rugs, selecting materials that are natural, like cotton and wool, which also tend to be more durable than the man-made fabrics that are treated with chemicals. Bamboo is a rapidly growing plant, making it a great substitute for items traditionally made from wood, such as cutting boards, furniture, and accent pieces. Cork is a renewable resource derived from the bark of a tree, and it is also hypoallergenic and resistant to mold, making it an excellent choice for kitchens and bathrooms. Eco-friendly choices align with zero-waste ideals to maintain the planet in optimal condition. For some additional ideas and tips to eliminate waste in your everyday life, check out this blog post from Sustainable Jungle.
Paint companies like Sherwin-Williams have already announced their amazing Color of the Year choice, Redend Point, which draws from nature’s calm color palette. Benjamin Moore’s choice of Raspberry Blush, though, is closer in shade to the color selection made by the one company everyone in the fashion world looks to, Pantone. Designers and manufacturers alike waited with eagerness to hear Pantone’s color of the year announcement, and for 2023, their choice was Viva Magenta, a color described as a “crimson red tone that presents a balance between warm and cool. This hybrid of red and pink is a reflection of our current world’s relationship of living in both a physical and digital world. More and more homeowners are learning to blend their work and home lifestyles, which have become deeply entwined over the last couple of years. We know that color is much more than a splash of paint on a wall or cabinet; it speaks a language all its own, something Pantone seems to grasp and express well. So what influence will 2023’s Viva Magenta have on us? Let’s explore the answers today.
Greenbrook DesignWhen you first moved into your property, you took the time to come up with the perfect design for a space you’ll call home. However, over time, circumstances change, and so do people. And, now, you’ve found yourself in a situation of wanting to change things up a bit. If you’re wondering how to tell it’s time to redesign your home, sit tight and let us walk you through all the major signs.
Greenbrook DesignHomes are a collection of things we love, and sometimes those things can come from places outside the traditional sources, such as your typical home furnishings stores. Increasingly, designers and homeowners alike are discovering the benefits of antique stores. These places, often thought of as the last stop for items no one else wanted, have become a popular shopping stop for those who want to have something unique in their home and enjoy the thrill of “treasure hunting”. More and more design styles are also embracing vintage finds, seeking to blend them together to create something special, such as the grand millennial and mid-century modern styles. Millennials are also enjoying the freedom to branch out in their design choices, creating a home that is customized to their own personality. Antique shopping can be a wonderful way to uncover those special touches that can make all the difference in your home, so let’s explore how to get started and what to do with all of the treasures you find.
Walker WoodworkingMore designers and contractors are incorporating this secondary space into the kitchen to gain square footage and have an area that works as an extension of the kitchen. Let’s dive deeper into what a butler pantry is and what the benefits are for you.
Walker WoodworkingThis is why we have created multiple door profile styles so that each of our clients can find the one that perfectly tells their story to everyone. At times, they are not able to pinpoint one that speaks to them, which is why we offer custom door styles as well. Several of our clients have opted for mullion cabinet doors, which always add a beautiful touch to their space.
Greenbrook Design 
Walker Woodworking