Living Eco-Luxe

Casa Verde showcases grown-up sustainable design

By Chris Lee

Photo by Todd Buchanan

If you harbor any suspicion that “sustainable design” is code for clunky or unsophisticated, we prescribe a visit to Casa Verde. This 2,800-square-foot showroom in the Lynnhurst neighborhood of Minneapolis (in the space formerly occupied by Bjorling & Grant) will put to rest any doubts you may have. Open since the end of November, Casa Verde is the inspiration of founders Rosemary Merrill, Susan H. Brunn, and Susan Jacobs. While the three share a passion for sustainable design, Merrill is the award-winning kitchen and bath designer behind the vision. “We wanted to show that good design and construction are the foundation of green design,” she says. The showroom’s elegant vignettes and luxurious furnishings and accessories—all made with Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)-certified wood, natural fibers, and nontoxic finishes—reinforce the message that green encompasses beauty, endurance, and eco-friendliness. Casa Verde displays a generous selection of sustainable products, both locally produced and winnowed from sources across the country. Eco-friendly built-ins and furniture share space with Casa Verde’s own custom furniture line, lighting by Urban Electric and Niche Modern, textiles by Q Collection, accessories by local artisans, and much more.

Photo by Todd Buchanan

Photo by Todd Buchanan
ABOVE From a custom bench ($1,500) and Indonesian root-wood table ($8,000) to a sexy kitchen yearning for a loft to call home, Casa Verde wares combine sustainability with good design.

FAR LEFT This kitchen shows off custom cabinetry, soapstone countertops, and a pewter light fixture by Urban Electric ($3,095). LEFT Scott McGlasson’s handturned ash with walnut-top side tables ($585-$650) display ceramic bowls by Monica Rudquist ($30-$80).