These showhouse products get our green seal of approval for being good-looking and good for the planet.

WOOD FLOORS AND CARPET
Noted for their innovations in green manufacturing, Shaw Industries (www.shawfloors.com) collects an estimated 300 million pounds of carpet waste each year, reducing its share of the 5 billion pounds sent to landfills. Used nylon fibers are recycled into new carpets or converted into steam energy. Wood products are harvested from sustainable forests.

NATURAL UPHOLSTERY
The Natural Lee collection (www.leeindustries.com) features foam cushions made partially from soybean products and pillows made from recycled plastic bottles. Frames consist of sustainable wood laminates and soy-based resins. Organic fabrics also are available. Lee offers a natural upgrade on any of its upholstery styles for about $100–$150, not including fabric.

WALL FINISH
American Clay natural plaster (www.americanclay.com) gives the walls in the main living areas a rich, textured glow. Mixed with water and natural pigments, the nontoxic (no VOC) treatment can be troweled or sprayed over painted walls or primed wallboard for a porous surface that resists mold. Because of its long drying time, even first-timers can get good results. Cost ranges from about 80 cents to $1.35 per square foot.

WINDOW COVERINGS
Oregon-based Hartmann & Forbes (www.hfshades.com) makes hand-woven shades and drapery panels from organically grown grasses and bamboo. The company recycles old shades into compost for future crops.