How to Create the Ultimate Sustainable Kitchen with Humphrey Munson

Our commitment to sustainability is evident in every aspect of our work, from the materials we use to the way we manufacture our kitchens.

It’s really important to note that sustainability is a journey and although we are not perfect, we are committed to doing better for people and for the planet.

When you’re planning your own project, as well as using sustainable materials, there are other ways to make your kitchen design as sustainable as possible and we have shared some of these tips below to help design a sustainable kitchen that not only looks beautiful but also promotes environmental responsibility.

1. A well designed kitchen, made to last forever

At Humphrey Munson, we believe that the ultimate sustainable kitchen is one that is handmade with the finest materials, and designed to last a lifetime. If a kitchen is designed well with function first and foremost, it will always work. The HM cabinetry is renowned for its superior quality and our design team are committed to the functionality and workability of every kitchen we create.

Designing a kitchen that will last a lifetime like our Humphrey Munson kitchens is by far the best way to create a sustainable kitchen. During the design stage, avoid trendy designs and choose classic styles that will remain in fashion for years to come. But if you do decide you fancy a change after 10 years, you can easily re-paint and refresh the entire kitchen. This will prevent the need for frequent renovations and reduce waste over time.

2. Maximise natural light

Incorporate large windows or skylights to allow as much natural light into the space as possible. This reduces the need for artificial lighting and saves energy. In the Suffolk Project there are two large windows either side of the main cooking area.

3. Choose energy-efficient appliances

Look for appliances with an excellent energy efficiency rating. They use less energy and help reduce your carbon footprint. In the UK, the energy efficiency of fridge freezers is rated on a scale of A+++ to D, with A+++ being the most efficient. Miele fridge freezers (such as the French door model in the Westerham project pictured above) typically have an energy efficiency rating of A+++, making them an excellent choice for those who want to reduce their carbon footprint and save on energy bills. Additionally, Miele appliances are built to last, so customers can be sure they are investing in a product that is both energy-efficient and built to withstand the test of time.

4. Install water-saving fixtures

Choose a dishwasher with a half-load or ECO option to save water and energy. Miele dishwashers come equipped with an ECO mode setting that is designed to be more environmentally friendly than standard washing cycles. This setting uses less water and energy by extending the wash cycle time, which allows for a more thorough cleaning using less resources. By using the ECO mode setting, not only are you helping to reduce your carbon footprint, but you’re also saving money on your energy bills.

Additionally, Miele dishwashers are engineered to be some of the most energy-efficient on the market, with many models receiving top ratings for their low water and energy consumption. Overall, using the eco mode setting on a Miele dishwasher is a great way to reduce your environmental impact without sacrificing cleaning performance.

5. Plan for proper ventilation

A well-ventilated kitchen can improve indoor air quality and reduce energy costs. Make sure your kitchen has proper ventilation to prevent moisture buildup and improve air circulation. We love to work with Westin on our Humphrey Munson projects; Westin is the leading brand in the UK when it comes to cooker hoods. They have a range of stylish and practical cooker hoods that are designed to remove cooking odours and smoke from your kitchen.

One of the things that make Westin cooker hoods really special is their high-performance extraction system that ensures efficient air purification, keeping your kitchen smelling fresh and clean. Their cooker hoods are also energy efficient and come with LED lights (we supply ours in a custom kelvin level) that provide excellent illumination for cooking. Additionally, Westin cooker hoods are available in a variety of finishes and designs to suit any kitchen style.

6. Optimise storage

Efficient storage solutions can help reduce waste and promote sustainability. Consider pull-out bins and compartment recycling bins to make sorting waste easier.

7. Consider natural flooring

Choose flooring made from natural materials such as limestone which is a natural flooring material that has been used for centuries due to its durability, versatility, and beauty. Limestone is a sedimentary rock composed primarily of calcium carbonate, which is formed from the accumulation of shell, coral, and other organic debris.

One of the reasons limestone is considered sustainable is that it is a natural material that does not require a significant amount of energy to produce. Additionally, limestone is a long-lasting material that requires minimal maintenance and can be easily repaired if needed, reducing the need for replacement. Limestone is also a non-toxic material that does not emit any harmful chemicals, making it a safe and healthy flooring option for homes and businesses.

8. Choose LED lighting

LED lighting is energy-efficient and long-lasting, making it a smart choice for sustainable kitchens because it can help reduce energy consumption and minimise environmental impact. LED lights consume much less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and have a much longer lifespan, which means that they need to be replaced less frequently, reducing waste.

Additionally, LED lights do not contain toxic materials like mercury, making them a safer and more environmentally friendly lighting option. By choosing LED lights for your kitchen, you can significantly reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future.

9. Use sustainable materials

At HM, one of the most important aspects of our sustainable approach is the use of sustainable materials. We carefully source our timber using trusted importers who promotes and support all environmental issues related to the timber products that they supply.

Our timber suppliers are fully committed to playing their part in eradicating illegal logging and poor forest management as set out in the United Kingdom Timber Regulations (UKTR) which came into effect in 2021.

Each of our timber suppliers are members of the UK Timber Trade Federation (TTF) and adhere strictly to the supply chain due diligence guidelines set out in the TTF’s ‘Responsible Purchasing Policy’ (RPP).

Consequently, we will only import timber products from a chain of custody certified sources (FSC® PEFC).

From the solid wood used in our cabinetry to the natural stone countertops and hand-forged metal hardware, every element of a Humphrey Munson kitchen is chosen for its beauty, durability, and sustainability.

Our handmade approach to kitchen design means that each kitchen is a unique and carefully crafted work of art. This level of attention to detail means that our kitchens are not only beautiful, but also incredibly durable. With a lifetime guarantee, a Humphrey Munson kitchen will never need replacing, making it the ultimate sustainable choice.

In addition to our commitment to sustainable materials and craftsmanship, we also take steps to minimise our environmental impact in the production process. We use energy-efficient machinery and recycle all of our waste materials, including wood chips and sawdust.

At Humphrey Munson, we feel sustainability is a fundamental responsibility. We are proud to offer our clients not only the most beautiful and luxurious kitchens, but also the most sustainable ones we can currently design, make and install currently. Our work in this area continues…