Green Decorating 101
Five Easy Green Decorating Tips
Reuse, Recycle, Reclaim…these words plus a few others need to become your manta when it comes to decorating your space. With homes becoming smaller and remodeling instead of moving becoming the norm, we need a refresher on ways to stay green.
Green remodeling is a way of thinking that insists on making a home more efficient, comfortable, and healthier. Using products that are better for the environment and reducing material waste are high priorities, as are better energy conservation and indoor air quality. According to a study by the Sustainable Building Industry Council, housing by itself consumes 20% of America’s energy.
So what are a few things you can do to be greener?
1. Recycle
Research ways you can use recycled materials for building needs. At the California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco, 68% of the insulation is made from recycled denim.
2. Buy From Eco Friendly Companies
If you must buy new furnishings, look to companies that promote green design. Lee Furniture’s NaturalLEE line of upholstery uses renewable, soy based foam and engineered wood panels that use less old growth timbers and maximize lumber use. Even their springs are made up of 80% recycled metal.
3. Organic Fabrics and Recycled Fibers
Use fabrics and pillow inserts of 100% recycled fibers made from plastic bottles, as well as organic cotton and linen.
4. Eco Friendly Flooring
Some of the most eco-friendly flooring options available today include linoleum (biodegradable and made of natural materials), concrete, and cork (made from the bark of the cork tree, which is renewable) and bamboo. Wood floors are a perfec
5. Use Trees and Nature to Your Advantage
Plant shade trees around your house. Schedule an energy audit by your local power company – they can recommend ways to make your home more efficient, and provide you with information on tax-credits available for remodeling or replacing items such as windows, furnaces, or insulation.
These are barely the tip of the iceberg for ways to become greener in your home or lifestyle. Check out websites such as the www.greenhomeguide.com for more recommendations.
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Decorating Style| Design Sustainable | Tags: sustainable interior design | 1 Reference | Permalink 
Reader Comments (1)
Even their springs are made up of 80% recycled metal.