The Green Home's cottage-style kitchen puts the cook at the center of the activity. It is comfortably sized for one person — the triangle is five feet between points — but the large island and ample countertops create work zones that can easily accommodate three.

The countertops are manmade quartz done in the color of cement. This eco-friendly material is stain-resistant, heat-resistant and anti-microbial. This material is carried up onto the backsplash, simplifying the room's style and functionality.

The kitchen cabinets are the same style as those in the laundry room and pantry, but painted a warm taupe, which closely matches the walls. "The color scheme is calm and quiet and it makes room for the green to really pop," says the home's interior designer, Linda Woodrum.

The stove, range hood, dishwasher and refrigerator are all stainless steel, which gives the kitchen a sleek, urban touch. These Energy Star Certified appliances use 10 percent to 50 percent less energy and water than standard models. Linda complemented the natural tones of the cabinets, countertops and appliances with wicker baskets and trivets, as well as a cutting board of sustainable bamboo.