It's gotten really easy to be green while updating a kitchen or bath. Not only are newer fixtures and appliances more energy efficient, more companies are producing recycled building materials so you can stay green from the studs out. From flooring to fixtures, here's a little roundup of our favorite resources for green kitchen and bath rehabs.
More

I have marble countertops. Lucky, right? Unfortunately the pattern is so busy that I have a hard time telling when they're dirty. It's too easy to miss bits of rice or drips of sauce, and that's gross! More

When I was at High Point Market last month I was pleasantly surprised to discover how much furniture is still made in the United States. Kitchen cabinetry is also thriving here in the United States. Well, in a country beset with housing woes, perhaps thrive isn't the best choice of words. At any rate, these 10 companies manufacture kitchen cabinets here in the States. More

In the past ten years it seems that every single kitchen rehab saw the installation of granite countertops. Not only is granite getting a bit tired, it's also not a very eco-conscious option. Enter Elements to save the day. More

When faced with builder-grade or dated cabinets, the first impulse of many new homeowners is to rip them out and start fresh. Then comes the sticker shock, which is usually followed by a trip down the paint aisle. While painting existing cabinets is always a great option for an inexpensive cabinet face lift, replacing the cabinet door inserts is another way to get a new look for less. More

More

More

More

I decided on IKEA kitchen cabinets for the remodel. They are affordable, look spiffy, and work well for a second home that doesn't get daily use. I had priced out a comparable kitchen at Home Depot, but $4,000+ took a big bite out of the old budget. IKEA cabinets were just over $2,000 (thanks annual kitchen sale!) and didn't have to be ordered in advance.

More

Reading about the worst decorating trends made me think about remodeling patterns as well. There's no question that certain materials and fixtures crop up again and again. They often become popular for valid reason; either they are practical, beautiful, inexpensive, or all of the above. Others however--like granite countertops--take hold of the market and just don't let go. Chances are good it's these finishes that will scream 2012 to our contemporaries. More