Sustainable interior design is all about creating the best and healthiest space for your family, and the environment. Living a greener and more sustainable lifestyle begins at home, and the right space can have an effect on your mood, and your health. There are plenty of sustainable living tips for things like your water consumption, and your landscaping, but sustainable interior design is about more than just energy-saving appliances.
If you’re looking to live a greener lifestyle, these tips can help you create a more eco-friendly home, and put sustainability first in your home design.
Use Plants As Decoration
A stalk of bamboo can suck up more CO2 than a full-grown tree. Using real plants in your decor will keep your air fresh and healthy. And, even better, it will have a huge impact on your carbon footprint, and help you live a more sustainable lifestyle. Growing a small herb garden indoors can also help save you money and time at the grocery store, as well as offering a healthy, organic alternative to big box stores.
Get Lots of Sunlight
Low-energy LED bulbs are significantly greener and safer than traditional bulbs. But they can only mimic real sunlight. Especially in the summer months, you’ll want to take advantage of the best hours of daylight, with lots of windows, and lighter curtains. Using natural daylight can cut down on the overall energy consumption in your home. It can also help you save hundreds on your electric bill!
Use Energy-Efficient Windows And Doors
While we’re on the subject of windows, make sure your windows are properly covered and insulated. There are products on the market that can ensure that your windows will reflect heat and insulate effectively. That means you use less heating and air conditioning throughout the year, saving money, and energy.
An estimated 80% of heat loss from your home is caused by improper insulation. Make sure to check your windows if you’re renovating or moving in, especially if the home is older.
Choose Natural Materials
Furniture and textiles made from organic material may seem more expensive, but they’re a great investment. Natural materials, like mango wood and teak, can last for years, and choosing furniture made from wood that has been reclaimed is a great way to cut down on your carbon footprint even further.
When choosing natural textiles, stay away from dyes and chemicals. Stick to cotton for your blankets and throw pillows and natural fibres like wool. You can use antique shops and second-hand furniture stores to find cheap rugs and other small decor items, to leave room to cover the cost of more expensive furniture.
Avoid VOC Content
Volatile Organic Compounds are chemicals that evaporate at room temperature. They’re found almost everywhere but are twice as prevalent inside your home as they are outside. Bad news for you. They are found in everything from paints, adhesives, cleaning products, furniture, and even carpets.
Good news, you can find a greener version of most of the products that have VOC. Stick to natural fibres, and use Green-Seal certified paints and wallpaper adhesives. That should minimize the VOC concentrations in your home. That means cleaner, fresher air, even when you’re inside.
Choose Low-Energy Options
If you’ve done any research into sustainability, chances are you know there are many options for low-energy fixtures in your home. Choose LED light fixtures in every room, and low-flow taps and toilets in the kitchen and bathroom. There are plenty of options to create a stylish, modern, and greener home!
When you’re dedicated to living a more sustainable lifestyle, there’s a lot to think about. Installing low energy bulbs and fixtures in your home can help reduce your carbon footprint. But there are also ways to live a more eco-friendly lifestyle throughout your interior design. With these tips, you can have a stylish and beautiful home, that is also healthier for you, your family, and the environment.
