Loving // Connected Goods

I first came across Connected Goods through their beautiful Instagram account. Over the summer the word "connected" sparked in my mind and I realized that is indeed the goal of our homes and renewed my excitement and vision for The Honest Home. So not only do I resonate with the name, their products are also beautiful and purpose driven. 

Some of my favorites from their shop. (Click on each image to go to the shop.)

Website   |   Instagram   |   Facebook   |   Twitter

Goodbye Summer // Style

I hope you had a fantastic summer! I took some time off from work, spent a lot of family time, did a little traveling, and lately have been getting back to client work. In regards to blogging and podcasting, I'm getting pumped for a new season and have a renewed excitement for each of them. I know many blogs are starting to share fall design ideas and inspiration...but I just love summer so much. Let's take one last hurrah look at summer style! 

Let me know if you have any suggestions of what you would like to see from The Honest Home Podcast in the fall!

Laminate Countertops // Green? Durable?

Laminate countertops have seen a resurgence in the last few years. As products are improved and budgets are tightened, homeowners are realizing laminate isn't just for rentals and the 50's. 

As I dive deeper into material research, I realize more and more that there is no perfect material when it comes to sustainability and durability. Laminate is no exception. But it does have a lot of pros that makes it a great option. 

Are laminate countertops green?
Are laminate countertops durable?

PROS

  • Very budget friendly. $10-$30 per square foot installed. 
  • Lightweight and often made in the US, meaning it has a lower carbon footprint.
  • Come in a lot of great design options. If it's stone you wanted, some patterns make it difficult to decipher whether it's stone or laminate. 
  • Non porous and bacteria resistant. 
  • Increasingly durable. High end laminate countertops come with a 10 year warranty. 
  • Often uses FSC wood fibers and paper in materials.
  • Can be fabricated and installed with low VOC adhesives. 
  • Two great options are Green Guard Certified. (Wilsonart and Formica)

CONS

  • Cutting boards and trivets are highly recommended.
  • Will likely go to a landfill at the end of it's lifecycle.
  • Can't be refinished if it becomes chipped or marred. 

What Is a VOC and Why Does It Matter?

What is a VOC and why Does it Matter?

VOC stands for Volatile Organic Compound

Don't let the word "organic" fool you though. VOCs are gasses that come from a variety of chemicals in things like paints, adhesives, cleaning products, air fresheners and more. Then they continue to release into the air (off-gas) for several years. 

Common symptoms from exposure to VOCs are: 
- irritation of the eyes, nose and throat
- nausea, dizziness and vomiting
- memory impairment

Long term exposure to VOCs can cause chronic disease and cancer. 

The alternative is to look for no or low-VOC paints and adhesives. Think of ways to use natural cleaners like vinegar or baking soda. Ask about and research things like beds, pressed wood furniture and carpet. Don't use air fresheners and open the windows. 

One step at a time. One decision at a time.  

To the trade design documentation.