7 BEST ECO-FRIENDLY ALTERNATIVES IN KITCHEN ESSENTIALS, useful tips towards sustainable living

The center of any house is the kitchen. It's where we gather to feed ourselves and our families, but it also has the potential to negatively affect our ecosystem. Many people are seeking methods to lessen their impact on the environment as climate change continues to influence our lives—beginning with eco-friendly cooking in the kitchen!

The 21st-century kitchen is full of all kinds of great stuff for making incredible meals, but all that great stuff is a lot of…stuff, and it’s important to consider the impact certain kitchen items have on the earth. There are lots of ways to make a kitchen product more eco-friendly, whether that’s by designing a reusable version of a disposable item, getting rid of hazardous materials, or applying a more efficient manufacturing method. We have searched for several eco-friendly kitchen products and materials and chose the best seven switches we could make to create a more sustainable and eco-friendly kitchen.

1. SWITCH FROM PAPER TOWELS TO REUSABLE KITCHEN CLOTH

By switching out single-use paper towels with reusable cloths, you can start an eco-friendly kitchen makeover in one of the most straightforward and cheap ways possible. One of the best products of this kind if you ever decided to find one are those that are created from bleached or unbleached cotton, which is soft and absorbent.

Another type of similar kind is the Swedish dishcloths, which were created by a Swedish engineer in 1949 and are "superabsorbent." They are constructed of "100% naturally biodegradable cellulose or a combination of wood pulp and renewable cotton," dry rapidly, and can be washed. Users treat them exactly the same way as paper towels and say they reduced the amount of paper towels by at least 80%.

2. SWITCH FROM PAPER COFFEE FILTERS TO STAINLESS STEEL COFFEE MESH

You might want to consider strategies to reduce your use of paper coffee filters in addition to reducing the number of single-use to-go coffee cups. Some coffee machines are made as an alternative to conventional methods of brewing. The outcome is akin to paper filters, but without the waste, adding that the stainless steel mesh is quite fine (keeping the grinds out).

Or you might want to purchase a plunging type coffee brewing device called a coffee presser or French press. Anything goes as long as your purpose is to eliminate paper filters. Simple things like these are great ways coffee lovers can show their courage as invincible earth heroes.

3. SWITCH FROM PLASTIC TO BAMBOO COOKING UTENSILS

You want to have the best tools for the task whether you're cooking for just yourself or the entire family. You may be unaware of the distinction between environmentally friendly kitchenware and whatever is currently on sale, but it's still worthwhile to learn more. Modern plastics may not only be inferior to bamboo in terms of performance but also impose harm on our internal health. Additionally, by making the transition, you're picking a better alternative for your family as well as the environment. And because we all call this place home, we may as well look after it to ensure the highest quality of life.

The following are the top advantages of bamboo as an eco-friendly material:

A. By using bamboo as a material, uncertified timber that may cause deforestation can be avoided;

B. Bamboo is simple to grow, and there are vast sources available;

C. These utensils may be made from a single mature bamboo piece to a thousand times; and

D. From being biodegradable, ethically sourced, tree-free, plastic-free, and reusable, this product's sustainability is quite commendable.

I personally use a bamboo kitchen spatula when cooking. The picture above shows my spatula on a bamboo cutting board. Cutting boards made of bamboo, when properly cared for, not only appear more elegant when displayed on a kitchen counter than plastic ones, but they also last a lot longer. You could make this transition as simple as possible for you. You could do it one by one which does not hurt your budget. After you have completed a set of bamboo utensils, we are certain that your family and the environment will thank you.

4. SWITCH FROM ALUMINUM NON-STICK COOKWARE TO NON-TOXIC CERAMIC POTS

Globally, the aluminum sector releases millions of tons of greenhouse gases each year, according to experts, which is, to put it simply, a massive no-no for Mother Nature. Choose the multipurpose ceramic-coated cookware the next time you need to replace your pots and pans since they are devoid of harmful chemicals, poisonous metals, and nanoparticles. Ceramic clay pots are also great alternatives, if you may choose so.

5. SWITCH FROM PLASTIC TO GLASS FOOD CONTAINERS

Glass food storage containers not only offer safer food storage, but also a great view of what is within. Glass Ball jars can keep anything from seeds, flours, and nuts to soups, stews, and fresh berries, and they are affordable (can be bought by the dozen). They are also simple to clean. When using glass containers for frozen storage, make sure to choose freezer-safe models with wide mouths that are simple to remove for warming and provide enough space at the top for any liquids to expand.

6. SWITCH FROM SINGLE-USE PLASTIC BAGS TO ECO BAGS FOR YOUR PRODUCE

There's a fair probability that a large portion of the plastic you believe you could be using comes from your monthly trip to the grocery store. Purchasing large quantities of fruits, vegetables, and other food typically requires ripping off several plastic bags on each trip, which can be harmful to the environment. Reusable produce bags, however, provide a simple and practical replacement for plastic ones if you're searching for a more environmentally friendly, long-lasting option. As far as we can, we can only use environmentally friendly bags and try to lessen environmental damage. In other words, eco-friendly bags are those made from a range of ecologically friendly materials including cotton, hemp, non-woven, RPET, biodegradable bioplastics, and recyclable paper. They are also generally more earth-friendly and emit less pollutants.

7. SWITCH FROM TRASH CAN TO COMPOST BIN (FOR FOOD SCRAPS ONLY)

Food scraps and other waste should be disposed of in a kitchen-top compost bin rather than the trash can, where they will decompose and leave your kitchen smelling bad. When the bin is full, dump it in your backyard compost pile (or, if permitted where you live, in your yard waste receptacle) and use it to supplement your vegetable garden!

FINAL THOUGHTS

Using eco-friendly kitchen supplies and utensils is unquestionably preferable to using single-use plastic ones. They have less waste, are more environmentally friendly, and are more sustainable. And we really hope that this post gives you more than enough options for a greener kitchen. All have already done so much harm to our world, therefore we need to start taking action as soon as we can if we want to save it for future generations. You are already making a difference in little ways by picking eco-friendly products over the standard plastic ones when you go shopping. And if we can start with ourselves, we'll be able to motivate other people to do the same.

Joey Castaneda

Architect

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KITCHEN INTERIOR DESIGN TRENDS FOR 2025

"Nothing is more important than ever to feel relaxed at home after a long day at work and be connected in the kitchen. That feeling would always give us the urge to think about placing our kitchen at the top of the list, whenever we plan for any upgrade or renovation in the house. Yet given the constant introduction of new equipment, design concepts, and finishes, you might be wondering which kitchen design trends will endure. So, what's worth investing in? And what are the items should you discard?" - Joey Castaneda, Architect

OBJECTIVE

My involvement in food manufacturing projects earlier in my architectural career motivated me to compile these kitchen design trends. Aside from the design of huge food processing plants, I was also involved in the design of model kitchens for food outlets located in some shopping malls and other commercial establishments to promote a food based franchise business.

In my observation, the momentum started by recent trends, which included a focus on storage, accents with a natural theme, and modernized technology in fixtures, appliances, and lighting, is continuing up to last year. The simple luxury of organic style is complemented by recent kitchen designs, while improved utility is the primary objective of updates and renovations. With these seven kitchen design trends, you can make your kitchen function the way you want it to while also adding flair and substance that will last for years.

Here are seven kitchen design trends you may adapt for your homes this year:

1. Smart Kitchen

Appliances are becoming smarter nowadays. Technology advancements are no longer just for sound systems and media rooms; they are also making significant strides in the kitchen. The integrated smart-technology alternatives and systems that support end users' lifestyles have been revolutionary and appear to develop daily. Today, you may find technology incorporated into the majority of kitchen appliances and equipment. Same thing also applies with kitchen components from basic touch-closing cabinets to smart faucets that can be operated by your smart phones. The luxury kitchen design trend is truly moving toward smart kitchens. Experts point out that most clients are spending more time at home; they want their kitchens to simplify their day-to-day activities. You might be worrying this option is expensive and belongs to the elites. The good news is that, not anymore. As technology advances, older versions are still in the market and eventually become more affordable. Keep searching and you will find one that might suit your budget.

Another related factor is the energy efficiency of the equipment. Due to the increasing energy cost nowadays, this matter has been given the most attention whenever homeowners plan to do kitchen makeovers or extensions. However, this usually falls under the functional category, rather than aesthetical. Moreover, kitchen equipment manufacturers nowadays go with the design trend too, and even fashionable to the extent of blending, if not exactly matching, with specific color themes.

Just like automobiles, kitchen appliances nowadays are getting eco-friendly. But further than that, buyers nowadays are considering more factors such as ESG or Environmental, Social and Corporate Governance. This goes along with the Sustainable Development Goals or SDGs. These must be new to your ears, but I believe there are some few enthusiasts who are already aware and conscious about these factors when buying products. Nevertheless, I am not an energy person, though I have concern with environment, but these are not my expertise, so I would not go any deeper into the subject matter. My main goal is to provide you with some useful design pointers, hoping the items I have compiled would somehow bring about valuable thoughts on your decision making whenever you think about a kitchen make-over or incorporating some of them, if not all, in building your new homes. Well, you may want to apply these ideas in other parts of the house too. Why not?

2. Natural Wood Tones

There is no doubt that natural wood is still a material of choice for most clients and home experts. Wood helps to provide organic vibes and natural accent to the kitchen by connecting it to the outside environment. However, the trend does not actually allow the material to dominate the arena. To maintain a contemporary touch, wooden surfaces blend along with granite working countertops.

3. Glass Cabinet Doors

We just could not hide the fact that we always lusted for the elegance of glass in every part of the house, office or building facades. Have you noticed lately that not only the dining or terraces are equipped with glass doors? Wooden or plain kitchen cabinets nowadays are being combined with a couple of glass doors, mostly frosted type, regardless of function, whether decorative or storage.

4. Mirror Splash Backs

My earlier career dictates the now called traditional design trend when we used to specify the same materials for the countertop and the wall. However, you yourselves would notice some new kitchens today with separate material for the horizontal and vertical surface. And to take note, glasses or mirrors are now the higher end choice for the wall which adds elegance and extended kitchen appearance. To add a few, it also adds extra mirror function for the end user, some would enjoy such ambiance while working in the kitchen, or simply just pouring out drink or having a quick snack. Of course, this type of idea should be categorized into the personalized option. They still could go for other materials or colors of their choice, depending on their personality, as long as it is compatible without compromising designer’s recommendations. Some would consider the cost of the material, which is somewhat practical for both sides.

5. Bold Lighting

Kitchens nowadays are drastically stealing the entertainment limelight at home and becoming an instant rock star, a title traditionally owned by the living or dining rooms. Of course, in every entertainment event, the star of the show always earns the brightest and most sophisticated lighting. That is why from the dim lighting trend during my younger days, pendant lighting is the best choice today.                                                                                                                                                                 

This revolution was brought about by the recent lifestyle trend which turns cooking as a good way to entertain guests, where homeowners are able to show-off their talents, rather than sitting down in the living room watching TV. Of course, the role of the designers is to adjust with such lifestyle change in order to stay in tune. To create interest, interior designers usually play with the size of the lighting fixtures, up to the extent of recommending industrial-style options, that breaks up the lines and create vibrant silhouettes. This works well with clients who don’t just think about a facelift, but also considering a slight expansion of the kitchen area.

6. Stand out Taps

Another design trend that is becoming more popular these days is the use of stand-out taps. The increasing demand makes manufacturers produce a selection of finishes such as silver, brass and the standard chrome. But the black and white ones are eventually becoming the mainstream in the market. New kitchens without stand out taps couldn’t really represent the title “new kitchen” at all. So whether you do the purchasing yourself or your contractor does it for you, make sure you add one in your shopping cart. You may want to consider this model.

7. Kitchen Plants

Another way of bringing the outside in is putting plants on the vacant spaces or shelves in kitchens, dining and even the living area. Besides filtering the air naturally and enhancing our mood, house plants are not just a trend considering its long-lasting popularity. Not to mention its never-ending blend with wooden finishes or furniture pieces.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Considering all the above-mentioned design trends, there is one characteristic of modern kitchen that applies to all. It's none other than a "minimalist kitchen." Our cover photo above and the picture below represent as a good examples.

Planning a renovation or not, I would greatly advise that you always love your kitchen. Remember that this is a space that brings the whole family together and at the same time will help you entertain guests. If ever you want to push through with the plan, whether you decide to go with the trend or just your heart, have fun with it. Make sure it addresses your needs, and keep in mind that even though remodeling process might be so tedious and occasionally exhausting, it will be worth it in the end.

Joey Castaneda

Architect/Artist

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CHOOSE YOUR BEST KITCHEN LAYOUT

“A practical kitchen layout should be your primary concern whether you're renovating your current kitchen or looking through the plans for a brand-new house.” – Joey Castaneda, Architect
When constructing a kitchen, there are several factors you ought to take into account, such as important building dimensions and workflow configurations. However, this might not always the case, especially if one is doing a significant renovation and a variety of styles are accessible.

Today, styles are flexible, and the fact that "traditional" is the most popular style is due in large part to the fact that many kitchens fall under this category, and have the option to combine other styles. The same is true of modern; both are vast genres of kitchen design. Learn more about kitchen architectural styles.

Yes, kitchen planning is quite tough. However, before thinking about other factors, the best strategy is to begin with a good layout. We prepared this kitchen layout guide with pros and cons in order to help you make the most of your space.

1. L-SHAPED LAYOUT

One of the most common kitchen layouts is L-shaped, if not the best one. Two adjacent countertops that form a right angle in a kitchen corner define this design's kitchen layout.

When designed appropriately, L-shaped kitchens provide a wonderful work triangle for streamlining preparation, cooking, and cleaning. A kitchen's L-shaped arrangement allows for exceptional work and traffic flow so that several cooks may work simultaneously and others can pass through the space without being impeded.

On the other hand, solitary chefs may find it irritating when purchasing a property that already has an L-shaped kitchen layout. Appliances are frequently dispersed, which makes it more difficult for a chef to prepare a dish. Consider the positioning of appliances and other components when planning a remodel or creating a bespoke house to improve your workflow.

EXAMPLE OF AN L-SHAPED KITCHEN

Advantages:

• Ideal working space;

• Conceptually open which may be well ventilated and natural lighted;

• Open interior may boost a home's value prompting a designer or decorator to show-off.

Disadvantages:

• Dispersed appliances may be aggravating for lone chefs;

• More rooms for cleaning;

• Working with corner cabinets might be challenging.

2. U-SHAPED LAYOUT

Known sometimes as horseshoe designs, U-shaped kitchen plans use three walls or countertop portions that form a semicircle, or "U" shape. Large kitchen areas with enough for three countertop pieces are ideal for u-shaped designs.

For homeowners who want an open concept design but still want some separation between the kitchen and living area, this plan is a fantastic option. U-shaped kitchens, on the other hand, are often narrower and deeper. Even though modern kitchens have plenty of room, it might seem cramped when more than one person is cooking.

Advantages:

• Extensive countertops provide enough area for cabinets;

• Kitchen interior could be improved by combining finished materials.

Disadvantages:

• Lesser aisles area and pathways for work;

• Working with corner cabinets might be challenging.

3. G-SHAPED LAYOUT

With the addition of a small amount of space to form the "G" shape, this particular kitchen layout has all the advantages of a U-shaped design. Large open concept homes with a large kitchen space are more likely to have this design. This might be mistakenly identified as a peninsula layout, however, a G-shaped kitchen is close type with walls even in the shorter countertop side, while peninsula is an open type layout.

This plan will maximize storage and countertop space in a kitchen designed to handle a busy family and numerous cooks simultaneously. You'll also have a lot of options for setting up one or more work triangles because of how big these kitchens are.

However, constructing a G-shaped kitchen requires much more thought and preparation than other layouts, so it might not be the greatest option if you're leaning toward a straightforward, minimalist style.

Advantages:

• More counter space just like the U-shape;

• The shorter side is useful;

• There are several work triangle choices.

Disadvantages:

• Intricate design;

• Limited access to and from the kitchen;

• Working with corner cabinets might be challenging.

4. SINGLE WALL LAYOUT

If you're working with a tiny area, a single-wall kitchen plan, sometimes referred to as a single-wall layout, is another practical design choice. In this design, the kitchen's other three sides are left open to the living space while the prep stations, appliances, and cupboards are arranged along one wall. That is the most open-minded idea there is.

The typical work triangle is eliminated in single-wall kitchen designs, but this is compensated for by increased efficiency in the kitchen, dining, and living spaces. The remainder of the house or apartment is made more open by having the kitchen confined to one wall. This optimizes natural sunlight and improves traffic flow overall, plus well ventilated space.

SINGLE WALL KITCHEN LAYOUT

Despite having the most open layout on the list, these kitchens lack the prep and storage room that big families or accomplished cooks may require. Single-wall kitchens provide the best workspace for one or two individuals, but if there are any more, the area may rapidly become crowded.

Advantages:

• Space is saved not only in the kitchen itself, but also for the entire house;

• Lesser expensive than other kitchen designs;

• Suitable for a single or two individuals living in a studio type condominiums or apartments.

Disadvantages:

• Possible crowding during busy days;

• Unsuitable for extended families;

• Unsuitable amount of counter and storage space.

5. GALLEY LAYOUT

A galley kitchen plan, also known as a corridor or parallel layout, may be effective in medium and large-sized kitchens even though it is most typically seen in compact kitchens. A galley layout consists of two parallel counters with a walkway in the middle.

GALLEY KITCHEN LAYOUT

This design creates a seamless work triangle if your workstations and appliances are set up appropriately. However, this style might not be the best option if you want to cook with your spouse. Galley kitchens are usually compact, making it difficult for many people to work together there. Consider creating a galley kitchen with an island if there is space.

Advantages:

• Maximum effectiveness and function;

• Ideal for compact rooms;

• Sufficient counter space.

Disadvantages:

• Usually narrow;

• With many people, it could feel crowded;

• Lesser storage than U-shaped kitchens.

6. ISLAND LAYOUT

The freestanding countertop in an island kitchen arrangement may either complement your current decor or serve as a focal point. If there is room, a kitchen island can provide more workplace, seating, and storage for:

• U-Shape Layout

• L-Shaped Layout

• Single -Wall Layout

G-SHAPED KITCHEN LAYOUT WITH ISLAND

Although they provide greater workspace, kitchen islands are not the ideal choice for tiny kitchens. You may have little room to move around because of these large, pricey kitchen additions that take up valuable floor space. A mobile cart or a tall table are more adaptable options if you absolutely need the extra storage and prep space.

Advantages:

• Island serves as added space for storage;

• More countertop surfaces for work;

• Kitchen seats or stools may be applicable if needed.

Disadvantages:

• Not recommended for little kitchens;

• Restricting traffic lanes;

• Expensive.

7. KITCHEN PENINSULA

What is a Kitchen Peninsula?

The kitchen island has grown in popularity in most modern houses over the past few decades, but not all home designs can accommodate one. A kitchen peninsula is a fantastic solution, especially when space is at a premium.

It's simple to change and expand your current kitchen plan by adding a kitchen peninsula. Kitchens that are L-shaped, G-shaped, or U-shaped frequently have a peninsula. Depending on the available area and desired use, a peninsula's length can vary, and even a tiny peninsula can be quite useful in your kitchen.

Distinction from Kitchen Island

A kitchen peninsula only has three accessible sides, compared to a kitchen island's four which makes it less expensive. Another cost advantage of kitchen peninsula is that the installation of appliances is simpler than installing a kitchen island. The advantages of a kitchen island are available with a kitchen peninsula, but it takes up less room.

Alternatively, a kitchen island is not appropriate for every kitchen. The more practical peninsula arrangement will work better in smaller kitchens that might not be able to accommodate a kitchen island. By dividing rooms in a house with an open floor plan, peninsulas can also serve as a partition between the kitchen and living area.

KITCHEN PENINSULA

More Facts About Kitchen Peninsulas

Smaller houses and flats often include peninsula kitchens. Without taking up the entire kitchen, they offer all the advantages of a peninsula. A kitchen peninsula has three reachable sides and is linked to a wall or nearby countertop. On the inside, or occasionally on all three, it frequently has lower cupboards and/or drawers for additional storage and offers additional counter area for food preparation and dining. Additionally, it could have a sink and/or culinary equipment. It is also possible to define space in an open-concept house and create separation between the kitchen and living room by including a peninsula island in the kitchen.

Depending on the available area and intended use, kitchen peninsulas can come in a variety of sizes and shapes. A kitchen peninsula serves as an addition to the existing kitchen area, giving the cook of the household a highly useful workplace with easy access to cupboards and equipment. Bar stools and an overhang on one or more of the peninsula counters' outside edges provide for the perfect seating arrangement for entertaining or grabbing a fast bite. The inside of the kitchen is defined by the peninsula's connected side, minimizing disturbances for the chef.

Design Factors to Consider

Just a few examples of how you may include a peninsula into your kitchen design are as follows:

• To delineate zones without totally separating them, a peninsula might act as a half-wall between the kitchen and the living room;

• A breakfast bar, entertainment area, or space for doing schoolwork may be created by setting up bar stools on one or two of the peninsula's edges;

• A one-wall kitchen may be made into a L shape by adding a peninsula, which will add more workspace;

• An existing L-shaped kitchen may be transformed into a U-shaped one with significantly more usefulness by adding a peninsula;

• Including appliances in the peninsula will increase meal preparation efficiency and convenience;

Advantages:

• May increase the market value of your house;

• With more bottom cabinets and drawers, there is more storage space;

• More counter area for food preparation;

• Installation of appliances is simpler than installing a kitchen island;

• Extra seats for entertaining guests and hurried lunches;

• Use it for work or study and have plugs and charging stations available;

• Better space flow may be found in open-plan homes;

• Fantastic option for condos without a dining room.

Disadvantages:

• Kitchens on peninsulas are sometimes prone to congestion.

• They could have rounded edges.

• For bigger kitchens, peninsula kitchens may be less effective.

• For bigger kitchens, peninsula kitchens may be less effective.

FINAL THOUGHTS

The amount of space available, desired efficiency and convenience all go into the layout of the kitchen. However, there are instances that the shape of the house or the main building happened to be irregular, and there is nothing that you can do except to adjust the layout which makes it the last option...an irregular shaped kitchen layout.

IRREGULAR LAYOUT

Nevertheless, the efficiency of the kitchen is determined by the work triangle. Therefore, the workspace is designated by the placements of the sink, stove, and refrigerator. The separation between these three main elements is constrained by a small triangle. While picking the best plan for your house, regardless of the type of kitchen layout you chose to create on a new house or renovate even on an existing one, always be ensured to take the work triangle into account.

Joey Castaneda

Architect/Artist

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