Who would think that the space used to feature the salt and peppershaker, prepare a sandwich, or just gather around during a party could cause so much controversy? Designing the ultimate eco-counter is a conflict between design and functionality.
 
After all, it’s not just a place to prepare food. The counter is merely the epicenter of the kitchen. As a focal point, it’s not the type of territory that can withstand compromised design elements. In terms of creating an aesthetically pleasing, green-centric kitchen counter, there are a host of sustainable and recycled products to consider:

• Bamboo
• Concrete
• Glass
• Natural Stone
• Paperstone or Richlite
• Wood
• Scrap Metal

Wood

The wood counter is a contemporary design concept. While it’s a sustainable product, it is vulnerable to weathering. But, it hinges on how the counter space is used. For people, big on using counter space to prepare food, wood can be tricky to clean. Just consider the effects of wine, ice cream and other spilling possibilities—and what the clean up means to the finish of the surface. Not to mention, wood does not take well to liquid stains – especially when improperly sealed.

Bamboo

While bamboo and Plyboo (a plywood bamboo hybrid) are alternatives, many eco-purists contend that the energy used to import goods from places like China and India is just as important as its production. Also, bamboo and Plyboo are not porous and require numerous finishing applications. Nevertheless, the eco-kitchen design makes for exceptional visual appeal.

Natural Stones

In terms of durable, scratch resistance, natural stones like marble and granite are ideal kitchen counter surfaces. The drawback is how much energy does the transport of the counter material cost? As for its redeeming designing elements and functionality, natural stones represent mod simplicity.

Paperstone and Richlite

Comprised of a resin and a paper mix, reports say that Paperstone and Richlite are quite durable eco-counter alternatives. Paperstone is a certifiably recycled paper. Since, it can withstand temperatures up to 350 degrees, it is sensitive to heat and fire. On the design side, Paperstone and Richlite kitchen counters are available in a myriad of colors.

Concrete

As for longevity as well as aesthetics, concrete has a smooth, clean appearance. The negative note is that concrete kitchen counters are not in ample supply. Since concrete expends exorbitant energy in production and transportation, certain green sticklers perceive it as counterproductive to the eco-counter.

Finishes

As for using finishes, on wooden or bamboo counters, look for products with water based coatings. They should not contain VOC or have very low levels of urea formaldehyde.

Corian and Avonite kitchen counters are not eco-centric. Since both materials use resins that are deemed toxic du\ring production and in liquid form, many green advocates frown upon its use. Other eco-counter space questions to add to your home planning checklist include the following:

• Are you looking for something sustainable?
• How important is the product’s durability?
• Is longevity a consideration?
• Is scratch resistance important?
• And what are your design prerequisites?

Meanwhile, the above questions barely scratch the surface of the counter controversy. Remember to consider how often you cook, what types of foods you frequently prepare, in contrast to the kitchen counter most conducive for your needs.