Sustainability is a buzzword that is thrown at any design product on the market that it will stick to. “Recycled content” is a term that comes up often in materials I am confronted with, but what is the merit of a little recycled content if its swimming in a sea of environmentally damaging material and practice? Recycled content is definitely important, but there are countless other factors that contribute to a truly “green” product.

Kitchen. Designed by Henrybuilt.

“Longevity is the most important aspect of sustainability” – Henrybuilt.com

In today’s society most objects are practically disposable due to cheap construction techniques that encourage frequent trips to IKEA and subsequent trips to the dumpster. Henrybuilt kitchens views the concept of sustainability in a way that references pre-industrial revolution mentality. The idea of quality craftsmanship and therefore longevity of a product is a sustainable solution that doesn’t require fancy engineering. Henrybuilt makes the statement that “there is no product on the market more solidly constructed from more long-lasting and hardwearing materials.”

Henrybuilt kitchens use a high percentage of FSC-certified woods and a high percentage of rapidly renewable materials such as bamboo. The base units are constructed from FSC-certified panels, with optional countertop materials based on recycled plastics and paper materials. Their design philosophy stresses customization and flexibility, which may not be inexpensive, but it will result in a kitchen design to last decades. Henrybuilt’s style is clean and contemporary, with a focus on the natural beauty of the woods. Their website shows a diversity of materials and hardware that allows the contemporary kitchens to work with a variety of interior designs. Perhaps you would outgrow your home before outlasting your kitchen.