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When Architect Carol Shen decided to renovate the kitchen in a house built in 1929, she had one goal: make it look gorgeous while creating a showcase of efficiency.  In this video, she shares the sustainable technologies, strategies and materials she used in the project.

One goal was to reuse as much as possible and minimize what went into the landfill.  When choosing new wood materials, she made sure they were from certified sustainable forests and had the Forest Stewdarship Council (FSC) seal of approval.

One of the coolest features is the new induction cooktop.  Okay you primal I-need-open-fire-to-cook-with geeks, I hear you whining.  But this electric induction cooking is winning over even the most primitive naked-ape chefs.  Unlike gas or conventional electric stoves, induction cooktops send almost all of their energy into the pot.  This reduces waste heat, lowers energy cost and keeps the surrounding cooking area cool.  You can actually place your hand on the stove top next to the pot without getting burned.

The super-efficient LED lights have the same high-style appeal of the old incandescent.  But, they reduced the energy consumption from 390 watts to a meager 72 watts (a savings of over 80%!!).  In the life-cycle competition the LEDs win hands down.  The LEDs have a lifespan of 50,000 hours compared to only 1,000 hours for the incandescents.  Boo-ya-daddy.

By installing an Energy Star front loading washing machine, Carol reduced her water consumption by almost 1,000 gallons.  The front loader has the added benefit of better washing performance while being gentler on your clothes.

What you need to know:

- FSC Certified Wood

- Energy Star Appliances

- 90% energy efficient induction cooktop

- Highly energy efficient CREE LED lighting

- Low or zero-VOC paints and finishes

- Marmoleum flooring

- Maximum use of local suppliers for sustainable materials

- Cabinets made locally from FSC certified wood.  Formaldehyde-free with soy-based glues.

- Deconstruction, donation or reuse of existing cabinets, fixtures and appliances

- Improved indoor air quality and passive cooling with use of vents and windows

From re:Source

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