Recycled Countertops

One of my favorite products on the market today are recycled countertops.  Even though they have been around for several years now, I am still completely obsessed.  Recycled countertops are increasing in popularity, and are currently being produced by a variety of manufacturers.  I have seen countertops that are made out of recycled glass, money, sunflower seeds, paper, cardboard, coffee beans...the possibilities are endless and the results are beautiful!

 

It used to be that granite was the standard go-to choice for your high-end kitchen counter, but now these stunning new materials are giving granite a run for its money.  Not only are there several possibilities for the recycled content of the counter, but there are also different finishes to choose from.  Some of the high-gloss finishes nearly mimic the look of granite, in a much more sustainable way.

 

Publisher Grey Light (Newspaper)   Publisher Grey Dark (Newspaper)

 

Counterfeit Green Marbleized (Money)  Counterfeit Green Shredded (Money   

 

Latte Brown Light (Cardboard)    Latte Brown Dark (Cardboard)

Above are a series of recycled countertops created by Shetka Stone, which is located it Le Center, MN!  Other manufacturers that specialize in recycled countertops are Vetrazzo, IceStone, and PaperStone.

The best part about these countertops no doubt is their environmental benefit.  As opposed to consuming limited natural resources when you purchase a granite countertop, you are instead making use of existing materials, as nearly everything making up the counters is recycled.  In fact, incorporating one of these countertops into your building can actually earn you LEED points.  Now how fantastic is that?!