In recent years, the impact that we humans have had on the environment has become increasingly and alarmingly apparent. As awareness regarding the importance of preserving the planet we live on grows, more and more people are seeking sustainable solutions, a trend particularly notable in home design. By utilizing eco-friendly materials and following more sustainable practices, homeowners can meaningfully reduce their carbon footprint, improve their home’s air quality, and save money on energy bills, all in one fell swoop.
Sustainable living solutions bring a range of benefits; as Realtor Darren Robertson says, ‘The growth of sustainability trends in home design is an exciting development for both homeowners and the environment. By embracing these trends, homeowners can create a space that is not only beautiful and functional but also healthy and eco-friendly – it’s a win-win for everyone.’
Here are some on-trend sustainable home design ideas that can help make your living space more eco-friendly, healthier, and more cost-effective.
Opting for non-toxic materials
One of the key aspects of any sustainable home design is the use of non-toxic materials. For example, plywood, particle board, and other traditional building materials often contain formaldehyde, which can be harmful to our health. Furthermore, many paints, stains, and adhesives can also release various harmful, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air.
Thankfully these days, there are plenty of safe, healthy alternatives on the market, such as VOC-free paints, non-toxic woods, and insulation and carpeting made from natural materials, and an increasing number of homeowners and developers are making the switch.
Reclaimed and recycled materials
By repurposing materials that would otherwise be discarded, homeowners can reduce their impact on the environment by minimizing waste, while also creating a unique home aesthetic. Recycled decking, tiling, doors, insulation, roof and wall materials, upcycled furniture, recycled steel beams, and more, can all be used to create a stunning, eco-friendly home.
Upgrading to efficiency-geared products
Efficiency-geared products are becoming increasingly popular in modern home design. These products, including solar panels and heat pump water heaters, are designed for greater efficiency, allowing homeowners to significantly reduce their expenses while also minimizing their environmental impact. By using energy and water-efficient design elements and products, homeowners can benefit from both lower bills and a reduced carbon footprint.
Living walls and roofs
Living walls and roofs are gaining popularity in modern eco-friendly home design, as they use plants to purify the air and improve indoor air quality. That said, the concept of green roofs dates back to the ancient practice of covering roofs with mud and grass to keep them cool, so perhaps we’re a little less progressive than we like to think! Nevertheless, green roofs, consisting of vegetation growing on a water-retaining layer, are not only highly energy-efficient and eco-friendly, but also add a stunning aesthetic to any home. Meanwhile, living walls can provide the following:
- A growing environment for plants on virtually any interior wall surface.
- Effective air purification
- Helping to reduce VOCs.
- Promoting a healthier, greener living environment.
Statement glass
Statement glass can bring a real ‘wow’ factor to the look and feel of a home, while adding to its eco-friendliness. Large windows, sliding glass doors, and other architectural elements can help to create a seamless transition between the comfort of the indoors and the beauty of nature and outdoor spaces, while also providing an abundance of natural lighting to really brighten any home.
The advantage of using statement glass to connect a home to its natural surroundings, whether that be a beautiful mountain view or a lush garden, is that it can go a long way toward creating a heightened sense of calm and tranquility. This connection to nature can also have a positive impact on mental health, helping to lift our mood and reduce stress.
The added perk of using statement glass to make a space feel larger and more open is particularly beneficial for smaller homes where every square foot counts.
When going green with statement glass, it’s essential to choose energy-efficient glass to prevent heat loss, as the type of glass used can have a big impact on the energy efficiency of a home. Low-emissivity (Low-E) glass is a type of energy-efficient glass that features a special coating for reflecting the warmth back into the home. This type of glass can help to reduce energy bills and minimize a home’s carbon footprint.
Final thoughts
As the growth of sustainability trends in home design continues to soar, it’s clear that more and more homeowners are embracing the benefits of eco-friendly living. These sustainable home design ideas provide solutions for creating a living space that is both beautiful and functional while also reducing our impact on the environment – a win-win for everyone.
