Green is more than just a pretty color

Green seems to be everywhere these days. And is it any wonder? Green comes in various luscious shades and hues, is known for it's soothing, relaxing properties, and is a very common color found in nature. And it's not merely a matter of green. It's almost as though nature herself is making a comeback and is once again fashionable with browns, coppers, and deep red shades, as well as a strutting array of other bright, organic-inspired colors accentuating her earthy tones.

According to StyleChicago.com: "Eco-friendly trends are multiplying by the hour, and don't think homes are going to be left out. More and more Chicago residents are choosing to live eco friendly and their green and blue-green living rooms are a reflection of that." (http://www.stylechicago.com/Category.asp?ID=11402#pantone). Avocado, anyone?

This greenery that seems to be at the top of so many of 2008's home renovation trend lists is about more than just beauty and a reconnection with nature. For more and more home and business owners, green, eco-friendly practices are becoming more of a priority. This trend seems to be extending into the home-renovation industry in a big way. Many of our clients in the past few months are not only more conscious of their environment (and their affect on it), but they are actively seeking greener, more ecologically-sound alternatives in their design and renovation products.

We see this overall as a positive trend, and believe that as contractors and renovation professionals, we must be prepared to adapt to the needs and demands of clients wanting to lessen their ecological footprint. ByDesign is already preparing for this change. However, for products to become available locally, there must first be a demand from customers. Below are some products we've come across in our research into beautiful, green alternatives in home improvements, otherwise known as our Green Wish List:

Floorings:

Recycled Teak and Rose wood hardwood floors. We find these especially delightful because teak is more rare than other exotic woods. The few companies we found use all recycled, mostly "waste" wood from old railways and bridges. The search for a local, recycled-wood flooring dealer continues... stay tuned.

A few non-local sources:

Ecotimber (CA)In addition to reclaimed stock, including gorgeous antique oak, this outfit sells easy-to-install engineered hardwood flooring that is certified by the Forestry Stewardship Council (FSC). ecotimber.com

Restoration Timber (CA, NY)Over a dozen varieties of wood planks, available in rustic and more polished styles. restorationtimber.com

Countertops

Richlite

Layers of paper (derived from renewable or recycled resources) are mixed with resin to form this highly stain-resistant material. richlite.com for stores.

Durat

From the silky feeling, you'd never guess that it's generated from recycled plastic and is itself 100 percent recyclable. from $50/square foot, europeanhome.com for information.