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Why Build Green?

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) the definition of Green Building, which formally came into being in the 1990s, breaks down to creating structures and using processes that are environmentally responsible and resource-efficient throughout the building’s life-cycle. That would include siting and design concepts, to construction, daily operation, maintenance, necessary renovations and finally deconstruction. In essence, from the ground up new buildings or homes or home renovations will be eco-friendly which has become such a major concern over the last few decades.

So what does all this really mean to the layperson? For example, is Building Green cost efficient? Well, in some instances biodegradable materials do cost more, but in the long run save on energy costs. By using Green Building methods and materials we can all maximize both economic and environmental performance. Even long standing buildings can be augmented with new green construction methods. And it is generally buildings in commercial settings, including schools that are now adopting the green system of construction.

In percentage points, again provided by the EPA, these types of buildings account for 39% of total energy usage; 12% of total water consumption; 68% of total electricity consumption, and 38% of carbon dioxide emissions. Strung together, that is an extremely high percentage of the total economic and environmental pie puzzle.

What it all comes down to in the end is how is Building Green beneficial to us now and in the future – both short and long-term?

The environmental benefits include – protection of our ecosystem, improved air and water quality, reduction of non-biodegradable waste materials and the conservation and restoration of our natural resources.

The economic benefits include – reduction of operating costs and the creation of new markets for green products and services, thus creating jobs.

The social benefits include – the enhancement of our collective comfort and health, the minimization of strain on our local infrastructures and the improvement of our overall quality of life.

Some examples of Green Building construction include – reused and recycled content or materials made from renewable resources, using minimal pollutants thereby reducing product emissions and landscaping techniques that reduce water usage.

Products used in Green Building include such seemingly innocuous, but necessary things as paints with no volatile organic compounds, low water toilets, energy efficient windows and LED lights.

Finally, it must be reiterated that any type of building has the potential to be or become green. As mentioned earlier, schools and commercial and public buildings are now adopting this method of construction or remodeling, but now, laboratories, health care facilities and private homeowners are jumping on board.

The best way to discover new concepts of incorporating Green Building in your home or office is to visit the EPA website at www.epa.gov. The site offers an extensive overview, including historical data, ideas, tax breaks and lists of other sources all in enthusiastic support of an issue that continues to gain precedence in our everyday lives. After all, economic, social and health concerns affect us all and will continue to do so as long as we inhabit this planet.

In the end it’s up to us to make a more fruitful, productive and environmentally sound world for our loved ones and future generations. And Building Green is just one of many things we can embrace to make that happen.

Doug

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Alexandra Yavarow, Interior Designer, has recently joined the Masters Touch team.

In her new role at Masters Touch, Ms. Yavarow will provide in-home interior design consultation services which include kitchen, bath and cabinetry design services as well as lighting, paint, window treatments, flooring and more.  She is also responsible for the Masters Touch Showroom design and will consult with customers in the showroom as well. 

Ms. Yavarow holds a Bachelor of Science in Interior Design with a concentration on Sustainability from Endicott College in Beverly, MA and will oversee sustainable initatives at Masters Touch.  She will enhance Masters Touch recycling program; introduce green product lines and materials as well as consult with clients who are interested in eco-friendly interior design for their home. 

In our official press release I pointed out that, “Sustainable design is the fastest growing segment of our industry and many of our clients are interested in eco-friendly products.  As environmentally responsible professionals, we're very pleased to welcome Alexandra to our talented design team.  Alexandra is committed to providing superior design services while finding ways to diminish design's impact on the world around us.”

Ms. Yavarow is an Associate Member of the International Interior Design Association (IIDA). She resides in Norfolk, MA.

Doug

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Mary of Needham writes:  “We’re planning on selling our home in a few years, but we really want a new kitchen now.  Will I recoup my money when it’s time to sell?  Secondly, are there any products that have better appeal?”

Good question Mary.  Short of adding square feet to your home, a kitchen renovation is one of the best investments you can make.  You can reasonably expect to realize an 80 to 100% return on your money.  In addition, a new kitchen is an important selling feature and will help your home sell much faster than if it had a run down kitchen.  Many prospective buyers will immediately move on to another possible new home if they see that a house needs a full kitchen renovation.  Young families just don’t have time to cope with a project like this and generally they want to move into their new home immediately.

In terms of what products you should use, there is an amazing variety on the market today including cabinetry, counters, flooring, lighting, tile and plumbing fixtures.  The most popular products right now are wood toned cabinetry, as opposed to white or painted finishes but they have their place too, and granite counter tops.

If you are planning to sell your home, then be sure to make selections that are “middle of the road” so as not to turn off any prospective buyers.  For example, you may really love that bright orange quartz counter top, but it’s doubtful that a prospective buyer will.  To maximize return on your investment it’s also a good idea to select fine quality products but not to splurge.  Semi-custom cabinetry is every bit as good looking as full custom, and will cost a lot less.

Doug

Tags: Masters Touch | Kitchen Remodeling | Cabinetry | Counters | Flooring | Lighting | Tile | Plumbing Fixtures | Selling Your Home

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