Three Fabulous Bathrooms
(Page 2 of 3)
September/October 2005
By Becky Mollenkamp
The couple knew they wanted to make changes in an earth-friendly way, so they hired Neil Kelly Designers/Remodelers, a firm known for its focus on the environment. “It seemed like the right thing to do,” Beth says. “It’s such a luxury to be able to remodel your home with little environmental impact.”
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Before this project, the Gregorys knew almost nothing about sustainable products and design. That, they say, was a benefit. Without preconceived notions, they were more open to the materials presented to them. “I thought eco-friendly materials would either be exorbitantly expensive or wouldn’t appeal to us,” Beth admits. “Fortunately, we were able to find materials we liked.”
Their choices were sometimes more limited than if they had chosen traditional materials, but they never felt disappointed by their options. Instead of a half-dozen choices for cabinetry, they had just three. It wasn’t a problem, however, because they were thrilled to discover tree-free wheatboard. Plus, they had unlimited selections for stain.
The couple was also pleasantly surprised by the costs. Throughout the project they asked, “Is there a more sustainable option we can afford?” Very often, the answer was yes. The recycled tile was dirt cheap, Beth says, and using sustainable framing wood was within their budget.
The bathroom was added to a space previously occupied by an underutilized second-story deck. The couple’s only requirements were a glass shower, preserving the four windows, and creating an open, warm space with added storage. Beth says the finished room offers all that and much more.
“It’s so comfortable; it’s a great place for our four-year-old daughter to come and talk with us,” Beth says. “We love the window seat; it’s a great fingernail-painting place.”