Sustainable Interior Design

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Sustainable interior design is important for much more than the environment. Research shows that Americans spend approximately 90% of their lives indoors. Sustainable design concepts benefit those who spend their time in the space in a variety of ways, including improved health — a boon to both the environment and society. Incorporating environmentally conscious design principles into your home or business may be easier than you think. Even small steps can have a significant impact.

Environmentally Sustainable Design

Improving the health of an indoor environment is the genesis of sustainability. Using furniture and fixtures that encourage healthy indoor air supports that goal, as does using products free of toxins. Water- and energy-efficient appliances are another pillar of ecological design. Products that are socially and economically sustainable, and those that don’t cause undue harm to the environment, support this endeavor. Selecting products from local merchants reduces the need for transportation and keeps critical dollars in the local economy. Simply reducing or eliminating waste helps define sustainable decorating practices.

Why Sustainable Design is Important

Because people spend so much time inside, having a healthy indoor environment can greatly improve quality of life. For example, countless furniture and cabinetry products are fabricated using formaldehyde, a known allergy- and cancer-causing agent, in the manufacturing process. Low levels of this gas are emitted from the furniture continuously over time.

Many types of carpet and area rugs also emit formaldehyde into the air. Lighting fixtures that require incandescent bulbs not only cost more to run, but require a significantly greater use of energy. Many types of paint emit a high level of volatile organic compounds that can cause a variety of health problems.

Incorporating Sustainable Design into Your Space

Environmentally conscious designers offer some simple tips for adopting sustainable concepts in your own home or office décor. Select hardwood furniture, rather than composite or veneer products. Some furniture manufacturers have begun incorporating discarded or post-manufacturing waste materials into their designs, making those wise choices also. Products that can be recycled when you no longer want them helps reduce landfill demand. Even lighting fixture and bulb manufacturers have introduced energy-saving designer product lines. Finally, selecting high-quality, timeless pieces when purchasing new furniture and accessories can make a significant difference. These items will hold up much longer than lesser-quality products and they never truly go out of style.

The design professionals at Guild Hall Fine Furniture of Salt Lake City care about the well-being of their clients as well as the environment. They can assist you in choosing a variety of classic furniture and accessories, all of exceptional quality and timeless design. It’s a great start to adopting sustainable interior design principles into your home or office.