To truly understand why sustainable design is so important, we have to get a bit philosophical.
Terms like eco-friendly, green, and sustainable have become buzzwords in recent years because they reflect how we as a society have come to realize that we need to adjust some of our behaviors to decrease the negative impact they have on the environment.
Photo by Sarah Dorweiler on Unsplash
The coronavirus pandemic may have caused significant disruption on a global scale, but it once again showed what a massive effect our way of life has on our planet.
But there is some good news. A big part of the pollution we generate comes from transportation that accounts for 29% of carbon emissions in the U.S. As a result of the social distancing measures taken during the pandemic, many of us have had to switch to remote working, and it seems this trend is here to stay.
Since so many of us are still working from home and will continue to do, why not find ways to make our homes more sustainable through interior design? This short guide will offer you some tips on how to do that.
Energy Efficient Design
We can reduce our carbon footprint by improving the energy efficiency in our homes, and there are two aspects to focus on: heating and lighting. By getting good-quality windows, you can reduce the rate at which you lose heat from your home. This will lower your utility bills and also help the environment.
Curtains and drapes can be used to isolate both from the cold and the heat. Carpets are also great thermal insulators.
In terms of light, you can use different intensities for different areas and use automated lighting systems to increase efficiency. Keep in mind that the color of the walls can also help you conserve energy. Lighter colors reflect more light, so you’ll need to use less artificial light than if you painted your walls a dark color.
Eco-Friendly Materials
Green homes are usually associated with solar panels, energy efficiency, and water conservation. But the materials we choose to furnish and decorate our homes also have an impact on the environment.
For instance, cutting down living trees for the sake of creating wooden furniture is not a sustainable option. Reclaimed wood, on the other hand, recycles old materials and gives them a new environmentally friendly life.
Another great material is bamboo since it’s fast-growing and requires no or very few fertilizers.
Then there’s recycled metal which can be recycled multiple times without losing its qualities.
Interiors with a Minimalist Aesthetic
Sustainable interior design follows the principle of “less is more.” Minimalism means decluttering and simplifying one’s home and life, which benefits both our mental health and the environment.
Scandinavian design is renowned for its simplicity and emphasis on the natural beauty of earthy, organic materials. In keeping with a minimalistic philosophy, this décor style reduces the number of items in your home, especially those that use non-renewable resources.
For example, for linen and upholstery, natural materials like hemp, organic cotton, and jute fibers are preferred.