When most people think of a home’s interiors they often image filling it with beautiful items including the perfect furniture, lighting, and even flooring. While this is certainly true, interior design does not have to be limited to aesthetics alone. This is great news for homeowners who embrace eco-conscious living. If you are interested in protecting the planet while also designing the home of your dreams, here are 7 top tips on designing a home with eco-friendliness in mind.
#1 Choose the Right Interior Designer
It does not matter if you are seeking décor for your bedrooms, living room, kitchen, or exteriors such as your screened in porch, there are so many options available when it comes to interior design. One of the best ways to begin your project is to rely on the expertise of a professional. When it comes to choosing the best designer, opt for someone who is already knowledgeable in the area of sustainable living. Such a designer can help you choose the best design elements that are gentle on the environment, giving you peace of mind in knowing you are taking the right steps towards improving the condition of the planet.
#2 Choose Eco-Friendly Brands
You can also fill your home with items from companies that are just as committed as you are to protecting the planet. Even if you are not working with an interior designer, you can still include items in your home that were created by eco-conscious companies on a mission. There are many brands that manufacture their goods in sustainable ways. For instance, some companies use recycled materials during production or they rely on non-toxic natural materials such as organic cotton, bamboo, and hemp. To find out if a company is eco-conscious check out their websites or call them directly to find out how involved they are in sustainability.
#3 Minimalist Design Inspiration
Minimalism and eco-conscious living go hand in hand. A minimalist lifestyle is all about reducing the clutter, living simply, and only using things that you truly need around the home. This entails reducing the amount of furniture and other unnecessary décor. The minimalist design features clean lines, sleek elements, and a focus on more space for a natural flow. What’s more, is that minimalism can help you to feel better since a decluttered home can reduce stress and clear out the distractions.
#4 Less Artificial Lighting
Relying less on artificial lighting is another great way to be eco-conscious at home. This is because natural sunlight can be just as good for illuminating your home during the day as turning on the light switch. What’s more, is that sunlight will give you plenty of vitamin D which is excellent for your health. So, instead of turning on the lights, pull back the curtains and blinds and let sunlight stream in. This is a great way to reduce your overall carbon footprint as well as save on your energy bill!
#5 Incorporate Indoor House Plants
Potted indoor plants are a great way to demonstrate your commitment to eco-friendly living. There are many plants that can help to purify the air that you breathe. From clearing the air of mold to eliminating harsh toxins like carcinogens and formaldehyde, plants are not only great for decorating but they are good for your health and well-being. Plants can be incorporated into any room, giving your spaces personality and visual interest. Some of the best houseplants for home décor and health are orchids, garden mums, peace lilies, Boston ferns, and snake plants.
#6 Energy Star Appliances
Even though appliances like refrigerators, stoves, and dishwashers are mainstays within homes, they can also serve a higher purpose. Choose an energy-saving appliance that will help you maximize your conservation efforts at home. Search for appliances with the Energy Star logo to ensure you are using fewer fossil fuels. Studies have shown that homes that use Energy Star appliances use 15-30% less energy than standard models. You can choose models in beautiful finishes such as stainless steel for a modern look and feel to your home.
#7 Repurpose & Upcycle Furniture
Reusing items is a basic premise for eco-conscious living. Creative homeowners can give old or unused items a new purpose by refinishing or upcycling them. There are so many easy DIY upcycle projects you can embark on. For instance, an old dresser can be turned into a new bookshelf and its drawers used for under bed storage. Repurposed or upcycled items can be customized with stains or paints in brand new finishes for a look that is all your own instead of simply throwing them away.
For homeowners who are committed to an eco-conscious lifestyle, incorporating green elements into your home is a great way to demonstrate responsibility in caring for the planet. So, design your eco-friendly home today and keep these great tips in mind. You’ll have minimal impact on the environment and will leave a lasting, positive impression on the Earth.
Author: Maggie Baker
