GREEN EXPO NYC 2010

Last week, I was able to pay a visit to the very popular Green Product Expo in New York City. It is usually chock full of interesting products and this year was not disappointing.

Venetian Plaster is a beautiful, upscale look but it can be expensive. A green alternative? Variance Acrylic Finishes is a product that goes on like venetian plaster but is a high performance acrylic polymer based finish system that is low voc, dust free, crack resistant, easy to repair, it's super durable and it looks gorgeous. Plus it's 1/2 the price of Venetian plaster and it qualifies for LEED points.


Recycled tile is not just about glass anymore. I saw a bounty of recycled tile materials that were absolutely gorgeous, such as recycled leather tile, recycled aluminum tiles, recycled ceramic and more! The adjacent photo is recycled leather in a snake finish. Another new type of tile they features was a tile made from recycled MONEY! That's right - US dollars destroyed by banks are shredded and then used to create a recycled content tile in a lovely shade of green. Chelsea Arts Tile & Stone in NYC had an impressive display. Now that's a full life cycle!


Another trend I noticed (and loved!) at the adjacent Architectural Digest Designer Home Show was the use of natural forms and natural wood slabs for furnishings. Furnishings of all shapes and sizes were on display from many different vendors, including tables, chairs, art work, and even wood slab countertops.

A furniture design/maker for over 21 years, Jeff Soderbergh creates his custom pieces from all re-claimed materials, many of which are very old and historically significant. His designs are perfect for antique lovers and greenies alike! Shown: One of a kind Brooklyn coffee table made from floorboards of a Brooklyn Home; circa 1800s.



For more information on green furnishings, home products and interior design choices, contact us at www.greenkristine.com to learn more.