• european cabinets Europe is on the cutting edge of many progressive ideasÑproduct innovation, architectural experimentation, resource conservation. ItÕs also a leader in sleek kitchen and bath cabinets that use innovative materials and technology. Whether itÕs Varenna from Italy or Bulthaup from Germany, these cabinets are tops with our readers. ÒThey have an evolved look with interesting finishes and details,Ó says Mark McInturff, FAIA, McInturff Architects, Bethesda, Md.

    Credit: Bulthaup

    european cabinets Europe is on the cutting edge of many progressive ideasÑproduct innovation, architectural experimentation, resource conservation. ItÕs also a leader in sleek kitchen and bath cabinets that use innovative materials and technology. Whether itÕs Varenna from Italy or Bulthaup from Germany, these cabinets are tops with our readers. ÒThey have an evolved look with interesting finishes and details,Ó says Mark McInturff, FAIA, McInturff Architects, Bethesda, Md.
 

energy-efficient appliances
 
It's been 14 years since the EPA introduced the Energy Star labeling program to identify energy-efficient products. Today, it's an important determinant of the appliances architects and clients choose. Energy Star-qualified refrigerators use about half as much energy as a pre-1993 model, and dishwashers use 25 percent less energy and less water. Allison Ewing, AIA, Hays + Ewing Design Studio, Charlottesville, Va., likes to spec single-unit washer/ dryers because they use one-third the water of a conventional unit.