Easy to design green? Barrington event aims to prove it

Add interior designers to those encouraging their customers to go green.

Whether it's using wood recycled from an old barn or harvested in responsibly managed forests, or buying an energy-efficient refrigerator, there are all sorts of way to be sensitive of the environment when planning a project.

To give people a better idea of how to make their remodeling projects more environmentally friendly, McCauley Design in Barrington and Palatine's Harper College are teaming up to host a "Green Design Evening."

"Green design is the biggest and fastest-growing part of our business," said Jacque Mott, who oversees Harper's interior design department.

The program, scheduled for 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at McCauley Design, 211 Park Ave. in Barrington, will include information on environmentally responsible products, materials and resources, all with a focus on architecture and design.

Mark McCauley of the namesake design firm said experts from across the country and representatives from the U.S. Green Building Council, will be on hand to try to clear up some confusion on what it means to go green.

Green design, he said, focuses on products that are recycled or reused and don't strain natural resources.

"We have to become more conscious about what we are doing in terms of energy use and in terms of recycling," McCauley said.

A common misperception, he said, is that it's green materials are costlier.

"It is completely cost efficient," McCauley said.

By using materials that reduce water intake or save electricity, he said consumers are actually saving money.

Mott said people are starting to realize that concern for the environment literally starts at home.

"I think as individuals we are starting to feel that we are responsible for the environment," she said. "It is time for us to save the earth."

If you go

• What: "Green Design Evening," a program on using environmentally friendly materials for home architecture, interiors and remodeling, hosted by McCauley Design and Harper College

• Where: McCauley Design, 211 Park Ave., Barrington

• When: 5-8 p.m. Wednesday, with formal presentations at 6 and 7 p.m.

• Cost: Free admission

• Info: (847) 381-2742