Climate change and sustainability have certainly become hot topics in recent years, with more people making adjustments to their lifestyle — small or large — to reduce their own carbon footprint and help save the planet.
Sustainable interior design allows you to reduce the environmental impact of your home makeover, try out a new style of décor, and feel safe in the knowledge that the materials you are using have been ethically sourced.
So, if you want to delve into the world of sustainability, here are a few suggestions to introduce eco-friendly interiors to your home.
1. Non-toxic paints
Many of the mainstream household paints can contain volatile organic compounds (VOC) — chemicals that evaporate at room temperature and can be damaging to the atmosphere. These chemicals can also be extremely harmful to breathe in —especially for homeowners with underlying health conditions — causing headaches, eye and throat irritation, and nausea.
A number of brands offer eco-friendly paint alternatives, perfect for refreshing your space without the risk of harmful chemicals. Check out Auro, Earthborn Paints, or ECOS Paints.
2. Cork is back!
Formerly relegated to wine bottles and noticeboards, cork has received a revival in recent years. Originating from the bark of a cork oak tree, it’s a firm favourite among the sustainability-conscious interior design world.
This versatile material can be used on walls, floors, accessories, even as insulation!
3. Buy pre-loved
Gumtree, eBay, and Facebook Marketplace are excellent platforms to search for second-hand furniture to complete your space in an eco-friendly and affordable way.
You can also make a few pennies by listing your own unwanted items for the next person to enjoy.
4. Let the light in
Layer up, turn town the heating and open the windows. Natural light paired with regularly-circulated fresh air will help to improve the atmosphere — and boost your mood at the same time.
If you’re looking to brighten up your working from home days to help with your wellbeing, check out this blog too.
5. Smart technology
Investing in smart home technology — such as thermostats and hybrid heat pumps — can improve the energy efficiency of your home and even save you money on household bills in the long run.
Smart thermostats can learn your household’s patterns and make adjustments to the heating according to whether or not someone is at home. This kit also lets you change the settings of your system while out and about.
We hope this has given you some helpful inspiration for your eco-friendly home makeover — get in touch on Twitter, Instagram, or Facebook to let us know how the transformation goes.
