Green home design goes beyond aesthetics, efficiency and budget. It is an environmentally responsible approach to interior design that focuses on how design goals impact the world around us. Green solutions attempts to create interiors that are healthier for people and enhance productivity, conserve water and energy, reduce waste and pollution, and minimize the use of materials.
Going green is not just for home design. Eco-friendly green home staging has become a popular topic among both home buyers and sellers.
For many, cost is a primary concern when considering green home design. Environmentally friendly products can be priced comparably but often times are priced considerably higher. Though individual items may cost more, the overall project budget may not be higher.
Often times a minimalist approach is the best approach to green home design. Rather than purchasing a vinyl-composition tile for floors, stain and polish the underlying concrete, a highly durable and environmentally friendly alternative. Or, consider green flooring options such as reclaimed wood floors. Rather than installing a new ceiling, leave interior structures exposed to minimize finishing materials. Rather than purchasing blinds, shutters or drapes, leave windows uncovered and take advantage of natural light.
Before you plan, make a purchase, or use an item for your interior design project, ask yourself these questions:
- Can I do without it?
- Can I borrow, rent or find it used?
- Can it be smaller, lighter or made from less?
- Is it durable, reusable or multi-functional?
- Is it available is a less toxic form?
- Does it use renewable resources?
- Is it recyclable or made with post-consumer recycled or reclaimed materials?
- Is it available from a socially and environmentally responsible company?
- Is it made locally?
Green Decor
When planning green decor consider both environmental impact and durability. When painting, look for non-toxic, low-VOC paints. For cabinetry, consider materials such as wheatstraw fiber rather than particleboard. This rapidly renewable, formaldehyde-free product provides exceptional strength and moisture resistance. For areas where carpets are desired, consider recycled, low-emitting carpet or all natural, chemical-free fibers such as wool. When accessorizing, look for items that are recycled, organic or reusable such as dried flowers in an old fashion glass soda bottle or watercolor painting on recycled paper or an organic bamboo scroll.
Green Furniture
Finding green furnishings can be challenging. Natural fabrics and furniture lines without formaldehyde, fire retardants and other chemicals can be difficult to obtain. As the popularity of green design grows, and manufactures receive more requests for non-toxic goods, more goods will be made available. Look for solid wood furnishings finished with environmentally friendly products such as low-toxicity water-based sealer. Some alternative finishes, such as beeswax, may require more maintenance and show watermarks. For upholstered items, look for chemical-free, all-natural fibers such as wool, cotton, silk and hemp.
Green Staging
Making people feel good inside a home when selling is one of the ingredients to a successful sale. Trees and plants are one step in a seven-layer process to staging a great room. Indoor plants create a more relaxed atmosphere while absorbing pollutants.
Tags: Green, green living, interior design, sustainable living