Green is the new black

Green is the way to go, especially now that today’s most innovative designers and architects have taken “sustainability” from geek to chic. Tap their trade secrets with “Sustainable Residential Interiors” by Associates III’s Kari Foster, Annette Stelmack, and Debbie Hindman (John Wiley & Sons, 2006).

You’ll find ideas and insight for interior environments that are eco-friendly, healthy, functional, and beautiful. And cost-effective particularly when factoring in a few cycles of utility bills. Speaking of long-term appeal, these high styles are easy to maintain and “fad-resistant” — unlike vaulted ceilings.

With allergies and chronic illness linked to the indoor environment, homeowners will appreciate the succinct reviews of common but risk-laden home components and healthier design choices. Examples: Select countertops and other surfaces made with formaldehyde-free resin, and maximize daylighting to improve comfort and mood while cutting lighting costs by 30 to 60 percent.

Stelnack, who recently spoke at the National Building Museum’s Greenovation festival, writes about one home “that had been victim to years of add-ons and enlargements, rendering it dysfunctional and stylistically confused.” Sound familiar? Her redesign included hot water radiant heating instead of the usual forced-air HVAC; low-VOC (volatile organic compound) paints; locally sourced art glass; locally manufactured wood cabinets with water-based finishes, readily renewable bamboo floors flanked by limestone and glazed concrete; and natural fiber, jute-backed area rugs. Bathrooms shimmer with recycled glass tile and countertops applied with nontoxic adhesives and grout.

The book brims with straightforward discussions of building and design materials, installation and maintenance; various kinds of “sustainable” certifications; and important questions and helpful checklists. Read it before you renovate — and share it with your contractors.