The world is becoming increasingly more environmentally conscious, and the field of interior design is no exception. Sustainable interior design, or designing with the environment in mind, has been on the rise in recent years as people become more aware of the impact their everyday choices have on the planet.
There are many different aspects to sustainable interior design, but five core principles are the foundation of this growing trend. These five principles are: designing for longevity, reducing environmental impact, waste reduction, prioritizing energy efficiency, and wellbeing. Each of these principles can be applied in a variety of ways in order to create a more sustainable interior design.
What is the green interior concept?
The green interior concept is one that takes all five of these principles into consideration in order to create a more sustainable design. This type of design focuses on creating a healthy environment for both people and the planet, using materials that are environmentally friendly and minimizing the impact the procedure has on the planet.
How do interior designers become sustainable?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as each designer will need to find their own way of incorporating sustainable practices into their work. However, some ways that designers can become more sustainable include using environmentally friendly materials, choosing energy-efficient appliances and fixtures, and employing green building techniques.
Design for low environmental impact
One of the most important aspects of sustainable interior design is designed for low environmental impact. This means choosing materials that have a minimal impact on the environment, whether that be through their production, use, or disposal.
Some examples of materials with a low environmental impact include bamboo, recycled glass, and low-emitting paints. Energy-efficient appliances and fixtures are also a great way to reduce environmental impact, as they use less energy and water than their traditional counterparts.
This principle is interconnected with all other aspects of sustainable interior design, as each choice made during the design process has an impact on the environment.
Design for energy efficiency
Another important aspect of eco-friendly home interior design is designing for energy efficiency. This means choosing appliances and fixtures that use less energy, as well as incorporating green building techniques that reduce the overall energy consumption of the space.
Some examples of energy-efficient appliances include LED lighting, low-flow plumbing fixtures, and ENERGY STAR® certified appliances. Green building techniques can be used to increase energy efficiency. Although that incandescent bulb may look good in your new lamp, an LED bulb uses at least 75% less energy and lasts 25 times longer.
Designing for health and well-being
One of the lesser-known aspects of green interior designing is focusing on health and well-being. This means creating a space that is not only environmentally friendly but also promotes the health and well-being of those who live in it.
Some ways to achieve this include incorporating natural light, using low-emitting paints and finishes, and choosing materials that improve indoor air quality. Other health-promoting features include access to nature, green space, and ample storage.
After all, what good is a sustainable home if it’s not a healthy one?
Design for waste reduction
Focusing on waste reduction is one of the top aspects when deciding to go sustainable in your home. You can achieve waste reduction in many ways but a popular way is to incorporate upcycled or recycled materials into your design.
Some examples of upcycled materials are using pre-loved vases or using mason jars to decorate your home. You can find many different ways to upcycle old materials into new ones with a little bit of creativity. As with everything else, reduction of plastic use is important too.
When it comes to recycled materials, think about using recycled glass for your countertops or recycled aluminum for your light fixtures. The options are endless and by incorporating these sustainable materials into your home, you’re making a commitment to reduce waste.
However, make sure not to overdo it; we want our home to look chic, not like a landfill.
Design for longevity and flexibility
Longevity and flexibility are one of the more popular principles of sustainable design as it incorporates the idea of getting more use out of something.
This could be anything from choosing furniture that can be used in multiple ways to designing a space that can be easily adapted as your needs change.
Some examples of this principle in action are using modular furniture, investing in quality pieces that will last, and choosing finishes that can be easily changed.
Material is also an important consideration when it comes to longevity and flexibility. Choosing materials that can be reused or recycled is a great way to make your home more sustainable.
Longevity and flexibility are important principles to consider when embarking on a sustainable design journey because they allow you to get more use out of your materials and reduce waste in the long run.
All principles are connected
You may have noticed that all of these principles are interconnected. And you’re right!
All of these principles are important considerations when creating a sustainable home because they all work together to create a space that is environmentally friendly and promotes the health and well-being of those who live in it.
When one principle is applied, it often has a positive impact on another. For example, when you choose energy-efficient appliances, you are not only reducing your environmental impact but also saving money on your energy bills by designing for energy efficiency. And when you focus on designing for health and well-being, you are creating a space that is not only more sustainable but also more enjoyable to live in.
Sustainable Interior Designs Impact On The Environments Health
Some of the ways sustainable interior design impacts the environment are by reducing waste, using recycled materials, and choosing energy-efficient appliances. All of these help to reduce the environmental impact of your home.
Materials
If you choose materials that can be reused or recycled, you are making a commitment to reduce the use of resources that aren’t sustainable. For example, bamboo instead of hardwood floors or using cork instead of tile in your kitchen backsplash. This helps save trees and energy used in the production of these materials.
Temperature
You can regulate the temperatures in your home by using energy-efficient appliances and fixtures. For example, use a programmable thermostat to ensure your home isn’t using more energy than necessary to heat or cool it. This also helps reduce your energy bills, but more importantly, it helps reduce your carbon footprint.
Lighting
Similar to temperature, efficient use of lighting also helps the environment. Using LED bulbs and natural light are great ways to reduce the amount of energy. Reduced energy consumption means the environment feels impacted less as well.
Final Thoughts
Green interior design is a growing trend that is here to stay. By applying these five principles in your home, you can create a space that is not only more sustainable but also more enjoyable to live in. And remember, all of these principles are interconnected so by focusing on one, you will often see improvements in another. So what are you waiting for? Start your sustainable design journey today!