Nationally recognized organizations are encouraging the design and construction of environmentally conscious kitchens and baths. For example, the U.S. Green Building Council's Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) rating system for Commercial Interiors pilot program addresses a variety of performance areas including: water use reduction, optimizing energy performance, ventilation efficiency, resources reuse, recycled content and regional materials, rapidly renewable materials and certified wood, indoor environmental quality, and low-emitting materials.
Among common “green guidelines” currently being practiced in design and construction, there are many that relate directly to kitchen and bath design, says Mary Jo Peterson, CKD, CBD. Peterson is president of Brookfield, Conn.-based Mary Jo Peterson, Inc., a design studio and consulting firm with specialized expertise in kitchen, bath and universal/accessible design. Her recommendations include: