"Green" is becoming more and more hip as we become increasingly aware of the environmental consequences of our choices. Following your eco-conscience when purchasing home furnishings is easier than you might think.

Important elements of sustainability to look for in your purchases include:
 - Non-toxic products in carpets, cabinets, drywall, paint.
 - Natural products in mattresses, fabrics and many other items.
 - Recycled products in counter tops, furniture and accessories.
 - Reclaimed products in flooring, architectural details, and tile.
 - "Sustainable" or “Renewable” wood from well-managed forests.
 - Energy saving appliances and lighting options.
 - Water conserving faucets and toilets.

The demand for eco-friendly options is going up.  To meet these needs, the home furnishings industry is constantly working to improve and refine the new “Green” design options available.  
Salvage operations that save and reuse parts of old buildings and homes mean less ends up in our landfills. Shopping at flea markets, antiquing and reusing artwork and accessories is a great affordable way to go “Green”. Finally, learning to live with less in both square footage and personal possessions is a great way to be eco-friendly.

We can all help save our earth, our health and our money by making more environmentally sound choices in our decorating. And from the looks of all the wonderful options available now, we can do it in STYLE!

Lisa Stewart is an Interior Designer in Raleigh, NC.

Considered a luxury a few years ago, outdoor kitchens are now becoming a standard feature in moderate to high-end remodels and new construction. It’s not just about the barbecue anymore. It’s about our ongoing love affair with nature, expanding our living space and alfresco entertaining with ease and elegance. 

Blurring lines between inside and outside, a well-designed and outfitted outdoor kitchen can seal the deal on a property. I see developers using them to set their product apart. Using covered shelters, fireplaces and attractive heating solutions, these rooms can be usable year round. 

An outdoor kitchen not only adds value to the house, it improves the homeowner’s quality of life. The continued craving for a connection to nature is satisfied by staying home and extending the living space to the outdoors. 

Grilling is an easy, inexpensive and healthy cooking option. For the guys it’s the perfect “man-toy"; it’s like having the coolest or fastest car on the block. Beyond grilling, televisions and pizza ovens are even becoming a must-have in outdoor kitchens. Picture relaxing on game day at a make-your-own pizza party!

Want to add an outdoor kitchen to your home? Find trade professionals educated on the wide range of options available, including landscape design. The new kitchen must be fully functional. This means you should be able do everything outdoors you can do indoors- and then some.  Beyond the basic capabilities, dream!  The outdoor kitchen concept is just getting started and sky may just be the limit.

Lisa Stewart is an Interior Designer in Raleigh, NC.