Marry Function with Style

If the existing kitchen simply doesn’t work with your lifestyle or physical needs, it may require a more complete remodel. If this is the case, maximize this opportunity by drafting a complete, prioritized list of your goals for the remodel. Examples include health and safety, efficiency, durability, flexibility, space, and ecological benefit.  A good designer or architect will come up with a scheme (or several) that meets your priorities. This scheme should also delight your aesthetic sensibilities. Look for designs you think will work well, and look good, years into the future. Taking cues from your home’s original architecture is often one way to reduce the chance the remodel will look dated down the road.

Capture Green Opportunities

Green can take many forms, and a kitchen remodel is a chance explore. Look for products that are:
- energy and water efficient
- low- or nontoxic
- natural
- locally and regionally harvested and produced
- recycled content
- durable
- made of renewable materials

On the design front, look for:

- efficient and effective use of space
- approaches that work for various ages and abilities
- flexibility to accommodate changes in use
- details that make cleaning and maintenance easy

In all, recognize your remodel for what it is: the chance to make your home work better, be kinder on the environment, and safer for you and your family. For more in green home remodeling, see www.seattle.gov/sustainablebuilding and click on Green Home Remodel.