Elements of a Green Bathroom

Lili Wright is a third generation interior decorator with 20 years of professional experience and a strong commitment to the environment, the arts and global transformation. Her eco-effective approach to interior design recently won her the 2004 Watershed Hero Award for Innovation. Lili is currently co-chair of the Monterey Bay Committee of the U.S. Green Building Council Northern California Chapter.

Green materials and ecological design are the cutting edge ways to implement sound health and hygiene practices, ensuring that clean water and clean air and healthy habitats remain available for all species over time.

1. As an alternative to vinyl flooring consider linoleum, made from wood flour, resins and linseed oil. It’s available in a variety of colors and can be cut and pieced into any pattern you can dream up.


2. For vanities and cabinets, avoid materials like particle board that contain formaldehyde. Instead, seek out sustainably harvested woods or rapidly renewable materials like bamboo, wheat straw, or sunflower plants bound with resins free of volatile organic compounds.


3. Countertops offer another opportunity to be creative. Look for vetrazzo, made from recycled glass, which sparkles with color and reflected light.


4. For an updated version of a classic look, consider recycled glass, ceramic or porcelain tiles for the walls—now available in every color and sheen imaginable.


5. Without sufficient ventilation, the toxic substances in conventional caulking can have serious health impacts. Safer, green alternatives are now available.


6. Older toilets use as much as 5 gallons per flush (GPF), compared to new models’ 1.6 GPF. Dual-flush models save even more.


7. Consider what will flow out with the water as it leaves the bathroom. Live in compliance with your commitment to a clean environment by thinking about the use and disposal of cleaning and body care products before you buy them.


8. Effective ventilation makes for a more enjoyable and healthier bathroom. Operable windows and good ventilation systems are a good way to keep fresh air circulating through the space.


9. Designing for longevity is central to the issue of sustainability. A well designed bathroom means less maintenance and fewer repairs. It can even postpone the need for costly remodels.

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