When the Purdue University Solar Decathlon team approached Susan Benedict at Design Alternatives, she wasn’t sure what to expect! Twenty university teams compete in the Solar Decathlon; the winner of the competition is the team that best blends affordability, consumer appeal, and design excellence with optimal energy production and maximum efficiency.

Purdue is the first and only Indiana team to compete in the U.S. Department of Energy’s Solar Decathlon. Part of Susan’s role became coaching the Purdue team on the use of design principles in the kitchen/ bath field and helping source quality local suppliers, like Grabill Cabinets.

One of Susan’s design contributions was steering the team to reconstituted veneers for the custom kitchen cabinetry. The Solar Decathlon is a design competition – and style is an important part of design!  Grabill helped Susan determine that reconstituted veneers would meet the local source criteria, as well as being eligible for LEED credit, while still offering impact high-style.

Susan selected Rift White Oak (with a Natural Finish), which she sees as a more contemporary look and color in cabinetry. To further define the contemporary cabinetry style, she also oriented the grain pattern on the horizontal and chose a flush, frameless cabinet to allow for additional storage. The overall look is light, airy and contemporary with undeniable green appeal.

Learn more about Grabill’s Green Initiatives.

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