What Makes a Modern Kitchen?

Homeowners who want to remodel their kitchen often look for a more modern look. Luckily nowadays the materials available can offer you a two for one: a kitchen that is both modern and energy efficient. Since the buzz now is going green, many people are choosing green home options in order to increase energy efficiency and preserve resources. Using eco friendly elements in kitchen modeling is no longer a passing fad, but is a way of life. Homeowners are particular in choosing environment friendly products that are sleek, modern, and beautiful, but also that are safe for their families.

Since kitchen cabinets and countertops could account for almost half of the renovation budget, it’s important for homeowners to incorporate green elements in their kitchens by choosing a quality countertop and cabinet manufacturer who’s into environmental sustainability. Look for companies with KCMA’s Environmental Stewardship Program (ESP). Companies will only get the ESP seal shown on their products if the certification requirements like product resource management, air quality, process resource management, and environmental stewardship and community relations are all met.

Also a staple in the modern kitchen is an open and inviting entertaining area with its benchtop the focal point. CaesarStone is low maintenance, as well as stain- and scratch-resistant. It’s non-porous, waterproof and heat-resistant, and best of all looks fantastic. Stainless steel is reat for that cutting-edge industrial look and feel, it is highly durable. However, you must maintain it regularly, as scratching can occur quite easily.

If you are very particular about surfaces, there are many more eco-friendly options like timber, tile and concrete. Most modern kitchens are moving away from the traditional-looking countertops such as granite and marble because they are often imported, harder to maintain, and require regular sealing to cover the porous materials from growing bacteria. Glass, concrete, and quartz countertops are all very durable nonporous materials that require little chemicals to maintain them. With LEED certification now available for residences, choosing an eco-friendly countertop is one way to gain LEED points, while helping the environment by reducing your environmental footprint -- something to think about while enjoying your morning cereal or brushing your teeth.