Sustainable interior design is the perfect way to create your dream home while doing your part for the environment. It is an environmentally conscious architectural and design style that focuses on using materials and construction methods that lessen a building’s impact on the environment. It also is centered on improving the health and wellbeing of the people who use the space.
Green design and sustainable design are not the same. Green design is all about reducing harm in the present and near future. Sustainable design looks at long-term consequences by using elements that will continue to minimize negative impact on the environment for years, decades or even centuries to come.
Sustainable design also helps improve indoor air quality by using materials prevent potentially dangerous toxins and dust particles from floating around the air and making us sick. By purchasing sustainable interior design decor and products, we can also reduce the noise in our living environment, which is all-important for psychological wellbeing. By using as much natural light as possible (above photo) we can reduce stress and increase productivity, too. This is especially helpful for those of us who work from home.
Reduced energy costs can be a benefit of sustainable design. Painting your walls light colors can decrease the need for artificial lighting. Using lined draperies, carpets, and blinds can improve insulation and thermal comfort resulting in reduced costs for heating and cooling. Arranging your furniture to open spaces around air vents will improve circulation. Lower electricity usage is another benefit of using as much natural light as possible.
When purchasing new furnishings, focus on longevity. Look for extremely durable high-quality materials that last longer. You will lessen your need to toss out old items and buy new ones, which supports waste reduction. Natural stone (photo below) is minimally harmful to the environment and can last centuries. The driftwood table (below right) is another example of using natural materials.
The Five Rs of Sustainability
It’s helpful to remember the “five Rs of sustainability,” which are the basic principles that underlie how to live sustainably. Refuse: Say “no” to environmentally unfriendly products by buying only those that are recyclable and ethically produced. Reduce: Use the minimum amount of required materials and resources to minimize your impact on the environment. Reuse: Avoid single-use products (especially plastics) by using metal or wooden alternatives wherever possible. Recycle: This one’s self-explanatory. Overall, dispose of your trash responsibly. Repurpose: Utilize your purchases in different ways once they’ve served their original purpose.
If you are interested in learning more about Sustainable Design, give me a call.
