One of the most important qualities Country Club Homes, Inc. infuses into homes is sustainability. An eco-friendly home not only leaves a smaller footprint on our beautiful planet but over time saves the homeowner money. Since the "going green" theme is increasingly an integral part of our design and construction, we thought we'd share a few ways you can make your home a bit more eco-friendly by focusing on your kitchen.
Lighting: Replace the light bulbs in the kitchen -- or the house for that matter -- with compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs). These bulbs use 75 percent less energy and last up to 10 times longer, saving about $30 over each bulb's lifetime. Whenever possible, use natural light to brighten up your kitchen, which in turn lowers the electrical bill.
Bamboo: The latest in environmentally friendly kitchens includes bamboo. Since bamboo is fast-growing and easily replenished versus hardwoods that take many years to grow, bamboo is considered very eco-friendly. The material makes great back splashes and flooring, and can be used easily for much smaller items such as cutting boards.
Photo provided by Country Club Homes, Inc.
Recycled stone-chipped composite: Stone-chipped counter tops resemble granite, and here's the key: they are just as durable.
Top/bottom freezer and refrigerator units: These models are far more energy-efficient than side-by-side units because less cold air escapes, therefore using less energy to maintain cold temperatures and costing you less.
Recycling stations: Have you thought of including handy recycling-station pulls outs? It makes it easy for the family to participate.
Convection ovens: A convection oven uses a fan to drive heat rapidly from source to food. This process allows for food to be cooked 25 percent faster than a conventional oven, which will use less energy and save you money.
Natural fabrics: The chairs and stools in your kitchen, even the window treatments, can be made with organic cotton or bamboo fabrics. This choice will eradicate pesticides and chemicals that you would've have otherwise been exposed to with man-made fabrics.
Are you looking to build your dream home or renovate the house you currently have? Contact Country Club Homes, Inc. at 203-762-0550 or simply e-mail info@countryclubhomesinc.com. We'll speak to you soon.