A growing trend among homeowners who are environmentally conscious is the implementation of an energy efficient interior design. The good news is that there are a number of stylish but low impact products that can be used for this purpose, and they come high in quality. Some of these products are 100% recycled and can be used for things such as rugs, tiles, countertops and furniture. Below are some energy efficient solutions that can be utilized for interior design.
Pay Attention to Where and What You Purchase
When planning your interior design, you should only buy from suppliers who run their businesses in a sustainable manner. They should believe in the conservation of natural resources and the efficient use of water or energy. Any materials you buy should be certified as sustainable, and should meet a variety of environmental standards.
Purchase Locally Whenever Possible
The artwork, textiles and furniture used for your interior design should be purchased locally. Buying locally lowers the carbon emissions that result from transport over long distances. It also supports the individual economies in which we live, making it a win-win situation for all!
Recycle as Much as Possible
Get in the habit of buying products made from goods which have been recycled. Some of the best examples of this are desks, tables, or chairs that are made from timber, which is salvaged. You can also purchase carpet tiles which are reclaimed, as well as rugs which are designed from recycled plastic. Products made from recycled goods care good for the environment, the economy, and can be aesthetically pleasing! Many are quite stylish and certain people even prefer them to non-recycled items..
Make Energy Efficiency the Cornerstone of Your Design
Energy efficient products and materials should be used for your interior design. Examples of this include heavily insulated curtains, low energy lighting units, and walls specifically painted to collect daylight while reflecting the heat they receive from other objects. By enacting these measures, some homeowners have been able to lower their electricity usage by as much as forty percent, while enhancing their guests’ experiences.
Don’t Forget the Bathroom
There are a number of green products available for bathrooms. Some of these include towels comprised of organic cotton, or shower curtains that are made from recycled materials. Look for shower tiles which are designed from recycled glass. Other excellent bathroom products include those made from bamboo, which is a very eco-friendly material.
Additional Tips
Avoid purchasing products that have low volatile organic compounds. More and more suppliers are selling goods which are “green certified”, and buyers should take advantage of these certifications when shopping for goods. You will also want to avoid purchasing products that contain materials such chrome, as it is a heavy metal which both pollutes and contaminates. Buy leather goods which are tanned using all-natural vegetable dyes, as they are more environmentally-friendly than other leather products.
All in all, implementing these solutions for your home will ensure that it stays energy efficient while dazzling everyone who visits your home!