Ever since Bjorling & Grant moved from 50th and Bryant to St. Louis Park more than a year ago, I've anxiously awaited news of what type of business would fill the old storefront (I live close by, and as many of you know, the neighborhood already has a few cool design shops and cafes). Several months ago, "coming soon" signs for Casa Verde showed up in the windows--and a few days ago, the store officially opened its doors. It's really more than a store: Casa Verde bills itself as the Twin Cities' first eco-luxe design show room. Designer Rosemary Merrill and business partners Susan Brunn and Susan Jacobs hope to show that sustainability in furnishings and kitchen/bath design doesn't need to come at the expense of beauty.

Here's a closer look at one of the kitchens. It features an energy-efficient induction cooktop and nice custom-glass details on the cabinet doors. I understand the upcharge for going with Forest Stewardship Council-certified woods and other green elements here was about $900--a lot less than I would have thought.

Casa Verde's custom furniture, including this dining table and chairs, is made in the Midwest in a manner that is environmentally responsible. Even small items, such as the candles in the china cabinet from Paddywax, are eco-friendly.

The show room is filled with beautiful local craft as well. Here are some pieces made by potters Monica Rudquist (the fluid-shape mugs and bowls with pronounced throwing marks) and Maren Kloppmann (the fantastic bowl on the bottom shelf).

Works by Minnesota painters hang throughout the show room. One of my favorites is this wonderfully austere landscape by Sarah Wieben. It pairs nicely with a throw by Libeco, a Belgian linen company that makes its products from flax. Casa Verde is the exclusive Twin Cities vendor for Libeco linens.

We'll be covering Casa Verde in more detail soon in Mpls.St.Paul Magazine, but in the meantime, check out the store for yourself. Ask to see the office with the compressed and recycled paper countertops!