From recycled glass tile, bamboo flooring, textiles, low VOC paints, cleaning products, to home design products, the trend towards green design seems to be growing due to consumer’s heightened consciousness of the importance of using items that are good for our environment. Using recycled items is also gaining interest among interior design clients.
There are varying degrees of “green,” also called eco-friendly design, but in general a product must be made from a renewable material that was grown organically with minimally impact to the environment; the manufacturing process must not cause pollution. Green products may be recyclable, hypoallergenic, and biodegradable, and some may even save energy (such as energy star appliances and energy efficient light bulbs).
If you were to ask the average person what going green means, they may picture lines of solar panels angled on their roof line. While solar panels are a great way to save money on your energy bill and definitely fall under the going green umbrella – the expense of installing them can be very steep; simple changes can have a positive impact in our lives as well. If you need to upgrade your flooring, going with a bamboo or cork is a would be an environmentally friendly option. When selecting a wall paint, it is always healthier to select a low or no-VOC paint, since it uses water as an ingredient and is less hazardous to the environment.
Eco friendly interior decoration avoids using toxin-introducing materials in your home. Synthetic fragrances and air fresheners may release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can irritate the respiratory system. Candles made before 2003 were made with lead-core wicks and are now banned, according to the National Candle Association. Organic soy and beeswax are green options that are better frangrance choices for your home; these choices are safe for pregnant woman and people with asthma.
When selecting cleaning products, it is always a better option to select a green product. Synthetic cleaners pollute our environment and can affect our lungs. Using water and steaming your ceramic tile is a great way to clean your kitchen floor. Products such as Cleaning the Green, are all natural and are great glass and surface cleaners. Also, Pet Pure Ayre Odor Eliminator is all natural and safe for your pets and will eliminate all your pet’s odors. Vinegar and water is also a great all natural cleaner for your kitchen and bathroom. Believe me, you will start to feel better when you use all natural cleaners in your home.
Keep in mind that “greening” your entire home does not happen overnight, it is an ongoing process that can lead up to an large environmental impact overtime that will also affect your health positively. Adding plants are an excellent green option and design element to add to any room.
Kate
Kate’s Home Staging and Redesign, specializes in home staging, interior design, home decorating, vacant staging, color consultations, and more. Contact Kate at 845-538-3623 to schedule your design consultation, www.kateshomestaging.com
Kate's Home Staging & Interior Design Blog 