Sustainability is quite the buzz word these days and for good reason. People are starting to recognize the importance of eco-friendly living decisions and how their presence impacts the earth. It’s becoming easier than ever to buy more sustainable produce, and fashion brands are beginning to incorporate more natural fibers into their designs and use fewer chemicals. Even interior design is getting a new look with more people choosing eco-friendly design options. If you’re also interested in making your home more sustainable, then keep reading to learn about the top seven sustainable interior design tips.
- Natural pendant lighting
Plenty of pendant lights are made with plastic shades or plastic decorative elements. If you’re looking to add some feature lights to your house, then consider choosing light fixtures made from wood. Distressed wood chandeliers or wood cased pendant lights will look beautiful in your home and give you that extra sustainable element. The wood from these light fixtures can easily be reused, recycled, or broken down many years down the line when they’re no longer being used, unlike their plastic counterparts.
- Wooden furniture
As you furnish your home, another way you can be more sustainable is by selecting wood furniture to fill your space. You can fill most of your house with sustainably sourced wood furniture, from a kitchen table and chairs to the front door bench seat. The great thing about wood furniture is that not only is it sustainable, but well-built wood furniture can last generations. As you choose what pieces will go in your home, be sure to select the items that were built to last. They may be more expensive, but they’re an investment you’ll have long into the future.
- Choose natural fibers
Carpet and rugs can all be found in natural fiber materials like wool or cotton. The great thing about these natural fibers is that they can eventually be composted when they need to be replaced. Look for other ways you can select natural materials such as window curtains, bedroom linens, and throw blankets. Not only do these materials look great, but they feel great and will last you a long time.
- Wood decor
Wooden decor elements are another way to add more eco-friendly design elements to your home. Select an elegant wood clock over its plastic counterpart, add a wooden sign to your front porch instead of a synthetic banner, and go with wooden serving utensils instead of the plastic ones. Wood decor pieces bring a natural look to your home and can make the space feel warm and inviting. Plus, you can feel good knowing your decor choices are better for the environment.
- Energy-efficient elements
The advancement of technology has made energy-efficiency in your home much more achievable. Add efficient elements to your space such as LEDs and a smart thermostat. A smart thermostat will adjust the temperature of your home whenever you’re away so the air isn’t running as much. This cuts down on your energy bill and conserves the use of electricity and other resources.
- Water-based paint
It’s easy to forget how many chemicals are in the products you buy. Paint, in particular, is often full of harsh chemicals, which you usually inhale after applying the paint. The scent you breathe after painting a room is what’s known as the off-gassing of the paint’s chemicals. For a more sustainable paint option, look for cans labeled “low odor” or “low VOC” when choosing your brand of paint. Water-based paints are a more natural option that will lower your exposure to chemicals and make your interior design more eco-friendly.
- Minimalist interior
Too often, people feel like they have to completely fill their space with furniture, decor, and other items. A minimalist interior design, however, looks and feels great. It also has the added benefit of being eco-friendly and sustainable. The fewer items you need to fill your space the more sustainable you’re ultimately being.
By working to move toward more sustainable design, you’re helping to create an energy efficient home and promote environmentally-friendly practices. Even if your interior design isn’t fully sustainable that’s still OK. As long as you’re mindful of your choices and do your best to incorporate more eco-friendly design features, that’s all that matters. Take it slow and look for one way you can add more sustainable features to your home. Perhaps it’s as simple as a wooden entry bench or a decorative wooden wall hanging. Whatever you choose, your efforts are making a difference for the environment and the people around you.