There are lots of ways you can improve your home. The objects and things in our home have a massive impact on us and the people. One of the trends we’re going to see more of through 2020 and onwards in the use of more natural sustainable materials and finishes used throughout the home. If you’re not one for a minimal look, and still like your home to have a homely and warm feel to it, with out going crazy with “interior trends” there are some friendly finishes that you can opt for that still look great and will last.
Considered more a lifestyle change than a trend. More and more people are looking into ways that not only benefit their well being but the environment as well. We’ve seen a shift to this outlook with biophilia interior design and interior trends such as Japandi and the ever popular Scandinavian look. Here are some materials and things you can add to make a more sustainable friendly home.
Cork
Cork is versatile material that can be used as a wall finish. There are some cool cork design products available such as lighting, seating and furniture. Designer Tom Dixon designed a furniture collection from cork with a slightly different look to the normal colouring of cork.
It’s naturally biodegradable, recyclable and has sound proofing qualities. Cork trees grow extremely fast and only the outer bark needs to be harvested. It’s fire resistant, water resistant and toxin free which is great for kids around the home. The dappled material has a warm, soft touch and looks fantastic in the home. Another reason why this sustainable material is so popular for interiors.
Bamboo
Bamboo is strong, durable and versatile which is why you can find it being used from bamboo silk sheets, to woven baskets and flooring. It’s very fast growing grass, reaching its peak within 3 to 5 years much faster than a typical hard wood tree.
Typically a material more favoured in Asia like China and Indonesia from everything to interiors, roofing, structures and decor.
Rattan & Wicker
Rattan and wicker is not only popular for use in the home it’s practical as well. A fast growing grass that is flexible and strong enough to weaved and made into seating and decorative features for the home too. Due to it’s fast growing properties it’s considered a sustainable and renewable material. A popular option for a sustainable friendly home.
LED Light Bulbs
LED lighting is now far more common for use in the home. Simply put Light Emitting Diode which produces a brighter light without wasting as much heat energy from the bulb.
Wool
Wool is natural fibre so it’s a good material for rugs and. It’s a good insulator for warmth and sound and it’s very long wearing. Other benefits are it’s hypoallergenic and naturally flame resistant. Wool contains natural oils which tends to keep staining to a minimum.
Cotton
Cotton has its advantages especially for your bedroom linens. It naturally regulates your body temperature during the winter and summer months. Keeping you cool in the summer and warmer in the colder months. So it you find you have trouble sleeping you should try switching to cotton or linen sheets.
Linen
An alternative option to using cotton is linen. A thicker and coarser material than cotton, it has the same benefits being hypoallergenic, biodegradable. It’s made from flax which is considered a renewable resource. Linen may last longer than cotton depending on the quality but may take a few washes to soften up and smooth out.
Greenery
Adding some plants to some places in your home will literally bring some life into your home. The closer we are to nature the better we feel and the cleaner the air around us.
Are you making an effort to creating a sustainable friendly home? What are things will you be trying out? Let me know in the comments below!
Chloe
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