Terri Ramsey Beavers Are you in the throes of planning an interior makeover, or have you decided to do a little summer sprucing? Many of us are devoting more time and attention to doing our bit for the planet. If you’re trying to embrace greener living, there are some great ways to incorporate this intention into your design plans. If you’re attempting to feather an eco-friendly nest, here are some top tips.
Use natural materials
If you love the natural look, you’ll be pleased to hear that this is a major trend for 2018. Natural materials like cotton and wood-look amazing, especially in the warmer summer months, but it’s also better for the environment to employ natural resources to adorn your home. Look out for reclaimed and recycled furniture, and keep an eye out for items that have been created using sustainable wood. Natural decor works brilliantly for compact kitchens, airy bathrooms, and tranquil bedrooms. Team a stripped wooden floor and white walls with a bamboo rug, plenty of houseplants, and some printed cotton cushion covers for an effortlessly cool look.
Buy eco-friendly paint
Are you thinking of trying out a new colorway in the living room, or are you swapping dark for light tones in time for the summer sun? If you’re planning to buy paint, take a look at companies like Real Milk Paint, which sell eco-friendly, non-toxic paint. By covering your walls in environmentally friendly paint, you can create a stunning aesthetic at the same time as doing your bit to protect the planet. When you’re choosing shades, try a range of testers and make sure you wait for them to dry, and then compare the colors in natural light. Paint can look very different on the wall to how it does on a label on the front of the tin. Colors have an influence on our mood, so think about how you use each room before you make a decision. Pastels and neutrals are an excellent choice for bedrooms, for example, as they have a soothing effect.
Add plants
Plants have aesthetic appeal, but they’re also proven to offer health benefits and act as a natural air purifier. You can use plants to add color and embrace the natural trend in kitchens, living rooms, and home offices, but they also absorb toxins and chemicals. Adding plants to the room is a great way to help your family breathe easier. You can choose from small, low-maintenance options like cacti or spider plants, or go for larger plants like the yucca. Think about the space you have available. If you’re decorating kitchen or bathroom shelves, for example, smaller potted plants are a fantastic option. If you’ve got a spacious hall, you can afford to opt for something a little more eye-catching.
Are you hoping to make your home more eco-friendly, or are you looking for easy ways to go green with your decor? If you’re planning a mini makeover, hopefully, this guide has given you some inspiration and ideas.