Ensuring that your home is as environmentally friendly as possible on the inside as well as the outside is fast becoming a growing trend. From the use of rain water collection to supplement waste water needs, to using sustainable materials such as bamboo, innovation is high when it comes to designing a sustainable space.
Sustainable design is a necessary part of our future. Bringing awareness to what is considered disposable is key. We need to think about how things are made and whether they are easily recyclable. As we seek to dramatically reduce our carbon footprint, there are lots of simple yet effective ways to implement these changes in our home.
⦁ Choose the right color. When you think of sustainable interior design in the first place is the color in question. In this case, it is not a color theme, a special paint without toxic substances. Choose a nice color without volatile organic compounds and take the first step to sustainable interior design.
⦁ Maximize the efficient use of space. Efficiently used interior spaces can keep the size of a building—and, therefore, the use of construction materials and other resources—to a minimum. Micro-housing developments, or “apodments,” serve as one solution in cities with quickly growing populations. They typically are 300-square feet or less and feature built-in amenities such as a refrigerator and microwave. Some developments are LEED-certified.
⦁ Use energy-wise construction and design materials. If you want to shape a sustainable interior design, you say goodbye to synthetic materials such as plastic or PVC. Instead, use natural materials such as wood, stone and bamboo that make the interior a warm and cozy look.
⦁ Use materials produced in a socially responsible manner. Use furniture and products from sources that promote safe manufacturing processes and socially just business practices. When possible, use local sources.
⦁ Reduce waste by using reclaimed or recycled materials. Fortunately, antique and vintage décor is an option for interior designers. Furniture and decorative items can be repurposed, refinished or otherwise refurbished to give them new life. For the truly environmentally conscious, tiles, carpets, fabrics, even sinks and counters can be made from recycled materials.
⦁ Plan for energy-efficient lighting. Clever interior design can incorporate windows and skylights to maximize the use of daylight and minimize artificial light. Use energy efficient lighting…..This is a simple and easy change to make in your home that will have lasting impact on the environment. By switching from regular light bulbs to eco-friendly ones you will dramatically reduce the energy that is wasted when you use your lights. When artificial lighting is needed, LEDs, halogens and compact fluorescent light bulbs save energy and last longer.
⦁ Have some plants as decorative features. If you’re struggling to think of environmentally friendly decorations, plants can be a simple yet striking addition to any room. House plants are becoming increasingly popular as they are now available in a wide range of colours to suit almost any interior. If you’re unused to caring for plants, it might be an idea to care for a simple green plant before building your way up to an orchid as these can be quite temperamental and difficult to care for at times. That said, once you are used to them they are a gorgeous addition to the home.
⦁ Use non-toxic and non-polluting products. An increasing variety of safe and chemical-free products is available, from organic, hypoallergenic paint to fibers and woods that haven’t been treated with pesticides.
Always remember, sustainability begins at home. From finishes to furniture, selecting eco-friendly products and practices can enhance the design of your home as well as leave a positive environmental impact; truly a win-win situation!