Sesshu Design Associates Ltd.

The Environmental & Aesthetic Benefits of Designing with Kirei Board

2012-05-14T19:29:35Z

The name says it all. According to sources, the word “Kirei” comes from the Japanese characters for “beautiful” or “clean.” Developed by Kierei USA, this low-impact, nontoxic material has become a popular eco-friendly alternative for flooring, cabinetry, wall coverings, furniture and more.

Kirei Board is an innovative material that is composed from leftover stalks of Sorghum that are harvested for food production. The Sorghum stalks are then woven and heat-pressed with KR Bond, an adhesive that is free of any urea formaldehyde. Here are a few of the environmental benefits of Kirei Board, as they are described in an article published by Treehugger:

Made from Sorghum, a rapidly renewable resource
Consists of over 90% recycled content
Categorized as a low-emitting material
Provides an additional income opportunity for Sorghum farmers

But it’s not only for LEED Credits that interior designers and architects are employing Kirei Board into interior designs. The warm colors, distinctive pattern and natural textures make the material an aesthetically intriguing alternative to ordinary hardwood. Take a look at a few inspiring designs with Kirei Board that we found on the popular design archive, Houzz.

Photo Credits:
1) By Kirei USA via Houzz
2) By Kirei USA via Houzz
3) By Vanni Archive viw Houzz

Designer’s Tip: Decorative Sinks That Make a Statement

2012-05-08T15:55:12Z

Skip the plain porcelain sink and explore the options of a sensational sink that is more like a work of art. Award-winning interior designer and founder of Sesshu Design Associates, Tanya Shively says decorative sinks are in! Two decorative sink lines that are making waves in the design world are Linkasink and Kohler. Here are some of our favorite sinks from these producers.

The English Cutwork Vessel from the Smithsonian Collection by Linkasink

Oval Brocade from the Bronze Collection by Linkasink

Sea Shell Sink from the Jewel Collection by Linkasink

The Artist Designed Glass Act Collection of Sinks by Kohler

Botanical Study™ Design on Kathryn® Under-Mount Bathroom Sink by Kohler

Lilies Lore® Cast Bronze Under-Mount Bathroom Sink by Kohler

What decorative sink lines have caught your eye? Tell us in a comment!

With our award-winning design techniques and experience with the industry’s leading products and materials, Sesshu Design Associates in Arizona can help western region homeowners achieve stunning luxurious interiors that perfectly reflect their lifestyle and personality. Contact us at 888-863-3070 to learn more.

Unique Mother’s Day Gift Idea: A Custom Designed Living Space

2012-05-08T14:35:18Z

Instead of the typical massage or spa package, you can extend the gift of relaxation or beauty with the Mother’s Day gift of a custom designed space. Sesshu Design Associates offers interior design gift certificates that can serve as the perfect present for a special mother this Sunday, May 13, 2012.

Imagine the gift of a spa master bath, a gorgeous new kitchen or a stunning powder room. Head designer of Sesshu Design, Tanya Shively is a LEED certified professional member of ASID, who specializes in luxury designs that incorporate environmentally sensitive and sustainable materials and methods. Not only will she achieve a beautiful interior or outdoor living space, but she will also get to enjoy the wonderful experience of working with an award-winning interior designer to create the space of her dreams.

Contact Sesshu Design Associates in Scottsdale, Arizona to purchase your design gift certificate by individual room or dollar amount by calling 888-863-3070. The Sesshu team loves to travel, too, so we welcome projects in Colorado, California, Wyoming and other western locales.