::"green" paint::

Now that everyone is more aware of global warming (thanks Al Gore!), "green", earth-friendly products are more popular than ever. In my last few architectural projects, heavy emphasis has been placed on using sustainable building materials and methods.

Initially, I wanted to use Wolf Gordon Scuffmaster pink pearlescent paint for the walls of the nursery. This particular paint is not only beautiful, it is extra durable and usually used in high traffic, commercial spaces. A similar finish was applied on the walls of Prada in SoHo when the store first opened. In addition, Scuffmaster products meet or exceed the U.S. Green Council 's LEED standards for environmentally sustainable building products. Unfortunately, due to the two-part specialized application process, we decided against using it.

Instead, we used Benjamin Moore's Eco Spec paint and primer. These products' features are:

• Low odor


• Low VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds)


• 100% Acrylic


• Dries quickly to a beautiful, washable, and uniform flat finish


• Spatter-resistant

In the end, the Eco Spec was a good choice because it is environmentally friendly and dried within hours without any noticeable odor. That is a plus especially for babies...and pregnant mothers who are sensitive to smells.