Interior design has seen numerous changes and developments over the years. From the traditional to the modern, interior design continues to evolve with each passing day. One of the interesting debates in the industry currently is the sustainability of stunning interior design. Is it possible to create stunning designs while still being environmentally friendly, and how will the future of interior design reflect this? Interlux Interiors is proud to be at the forefront of sustainable interior design initiatives and in this blog, I’ll show you some of the many ways that stunning can be sustainable.
Sustainability and Interior Design
Sustainability has become an important aspect of daily life. From renewable energy sources to recycling, being environmentally friendly is more important than ever before. Today's generation is more environmentally conscious than ever before, meaning the designs of the future must keep this in mind. The trend towards eco-friendly, sustainable design has started to drive the home interiors' design market.
Stunning and Sustainable, Can They Coexist?
The question arises: Is it possible to create beautiful and stunning interior designs that are also sustainable? The answer is YES! Sustainability can indeed coexist with stunning design. One of the most significant advantages of eco-friendly interior design is its ability to blend practicality, style, and sustainability. Sustainable design is thoughtful, practical, and reduces environmental impact without sacrificing style and design. Eco-friendly interior design focuses on using natural materials, products with low environmental impact, and environmentally responsible manufacturing processes.
Sustainable Interior Design Materials
One of the most promising developments in sustainable design is the introduction of new materials. Interior designers are constantly exploring new and innovative materials as they look to create eco-friendly and sustainable designs. Some of the most promising materials on the horizon include bamboo, cork, sustainable hardwood, and non-toxic paints.
Bamboo: An Excellent Alternative
Bamboo is a popular material for sustainable interior design. Bamboo is one of the fastest-growing plants on earth and is naturally renewable. It is strong, durable, and can be transformed into a wide range of materials, including textiles, wallpaper, flooring, and more. Bamboo products are also cost-effective and have a low carbon footprint.
Cork: Renewable and Versatile Material
Cork is another sustainable material that is versatile and renewable. Cork can be used for flooring, wall coverings, and furniture. Cork production is environmentally friendly, and the material is naturally resistant to water and mold.
Sustainable Hardwood: A New Trend
Sustainable hardwood is another alternative for interior design, replacing traditional hardwoods and reducing the impact of deforestation. Woods like bamboo, oak, and maple are popular choices for sustainable hardwood.
Non-Toxic Paints: Environmentally Responsible Finish
Non-toxic paints have become essential to sustainable interior design. Traditional paints release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, which can be hazardous to health and the environment. Non-toxic paints contain fewer VOCs and pose fewer risks to humans and the environment.
Glass: Chemically Inert and Recyclable
Glass is a highly sustainable material for interior design due to being chemically inert and recyclable. It is an excellent choice for partitions, windows, and decorative components. Glass is durable, able to last for decades, reducing the requirement for new production. Its transparency adds a touch of elegance and spaciousness to any interior while limiting environmental impact.
Reclaimed Wood: Reducing Deforestation and Waste
Integrating Reclaimed Wood into interior design adds character while contributing to sustainability. Reclaimed wood is obtained from salvaged materials like old buildings, barns, or driftwood, reducing the demand for freshly harvested timber. By giving new life to these natural materials, the utilization of reclaimed wood decreases deforestation and waste. It can be used for wall cladding, flooring, furniture, and decorative items, bringing an extraordinary and eco-friendly appeal to any space.
Jute: Natural Fiber for Textural Appeal
Jute is a versatile and sustainable material broadly utilized in sustainable interior design. It is a natural fiber derived from the jute plant, known for its strength and durability. Jute can be woven to create carpets, rugs, curtains, and decorative fabrics, adding texture and earthy appeal to interiors. Additionally, jute cultivation requires minimal fertilizers and pesticides, making it an environmentally friendly choice that supports sustainable farming practices.
Wood Wool: Versatile Applications in Interior Design
Wood wool, alternatively called excelsior, finds its application in interior design for various purposes. It is produced using shaved or shredded wood fibers and is known for its excellent insulation and acoustic properties. Wood wool can be utilized for insulation material, wall panels, ceiling tiles, and even for creating decorative elements. Its sustainable nature, combined with its functionality, makes it a popular choice among environmentally conscious interior designers.
Sustainable Fabrics: Natural Fibers for Eco-Friendly Interiors
Opting for fabrics produced using natural fibers like organic cotton, linen, hemp, or bamboo promotes sustainable interior design. These materials are biodegradable, lessening the environmental impact as contrasted with their synthetic counterparts. Sustainable fabrics can be utilized for upholstery, curtains, and bedding, giving both style and eco-friendliness to interior spaces.
Natural Stone: Locally Sourced and Responsible Quarrying
Choosing natural stone and using locally sourced and responsibly quarried materials like granite, marble, or limestone is crucial for sustainability. Using locally sourced stone reduces transportation emissions, while responsible quarrying practices support ecological conservation. Natural stone brings timeless beauty and a sense of grounding to interiors, making it an excellent choice for countertops, flooring, and wall cladding.
Organic Cotton: Environmentally Friendly Upholstery and Bedding
Embracing organic cotton in interior design brings a touch of eco-consciousness to luxury. Harvested without fertilizers or harmful chemicals, organic cotton is grown utilizing environmentally friendly cultivating techniques. It can be utilized for upholstery, bedding, and drapes, providing a natural and sustainable touch to living spaces while guaranteeing comfort and well-being.
Natural Linoleum: Biodegradable Flooring with Timeless Charm
Natural linoleum is a sustainable flooring option crafted from renewable materials, like linseed oil, wood flour, cork dust, and jute. Its biodegradability, durability, and immense range of colors and patterns make it a popular choice for eco-friendly interiors. Natural linoleum adds warmth, character, and a bit of nostalgia to floors, displaying the harmony between sustainability and design.
Sustainability Will Continue to Drive Interior Design
As I have explored, sustainability and interior design have become increasingly important in recent years, and this trend shows no signs of slowing down in the future. As a result, more interior designers are incorporating eco-friendly materials, products, and manufacturing processes into their design concepts. With innovative and sustainable materials and increased dedication to eco-friendly design, stunning and sustainable interior design can coexist in harmony.
The Future of Sustainable Design
The future of interior design is exciting, dynamic, and sustainable. As sustainability continues to be a significant driving force behind design trends, new materials and processes will continue to emerge. The challenge for interior designers will be to balance aesthetics, style, and practicality, while also being environmentally responsible.
The use of eco-friendly materials, low-impact products, and environmentally responsible manufacturing processes will become essential. The furniture manufacturing industry is moving in an encouraging direction, with more designers placing sustainability and environmental responsibility at the core of their design concepts.
The future of the industry is bright, with curated designs, low-impact technologies and eco-friendly materials that will push the envelope even further. The time is now for both stunning design and sustainability to coexist. To see how sustainable design can be implemented in your interior design project, I invite you to book a consultation with InterLux Interiors, where we can discuss a sustainable strategy that will not only complement, but will also enhance your home or commercial interior.
About the Author
Angie Wetzel is an esteemed Interior Designer renowned for her exceptional work and distinguished academic background from London. With over 20 years of experience across the globe, Angie has solidified her expertise in the field. As an esteemed allied member of the American Society of Interior Designers, she brings a wealth of knowledge and a passion for creating beautiful, sustainable spaces. Angie's commitment to enhancing the world's aesthetics while promoting environmentally-friendly practices is truly commendable. Her expertise and dedication make her a shining star in the realm of Interior Design.