October 20, 2023
In today’s world, where environmental consciousness is on the rise, as an interior designer, it is important to embrace innovative approaches that not only create aesthetically pleasing spaces but also prioritise human well-being and sustainability.
So what could this look like for you?
I’ll start by giving you a little descriptor of what Sustainable interior design involves – it’s creating environmentally friendly, socially responsible, and economically viable interiors to aid in the longevity of our homes and environment.
What does this look like as a design approach? It can really be broken into 2 major sections.
1. Sustainable Interior Design: A Responsible Vision
In sustainable design, one of the fundamental principles is the use of renewable resources or recycled materials for materials and furnishings. This approach aims to reduce the depletion of finite resources and minimise the environmental impact associated with the production and extraction of non-renewable materials.
By choosing renewable resources, designers opt for materials that can be replenished naturally or through sustainable management practices. This could look like using harvested wood on your flooring or cladding, or materials that have been created from recyclable materials which we are now seeing in benchtops.
Another area we can look at is the safe management of material waste. What I mean by this is understanding where your renovation rubbish will be taken and how it will be disposed of. We now have many companies in Melbourne that assist with responsible rubbish disposal that has an incredible impact on the environment.
By making conscious choices to incorporate renewable and recycled materials into interior design, designers and homeowners contribute to a more sustainable and ecologically responsible approach to building and decorating spaces, helping to preserve natural resources for future generations and mitigate the impacts of resource depletion and environmental degradation.
2. Biophilic Design: Reconnecting with Nature
Biophilic design is an innovative approach to architecture and interior design that seeks to reconnect people with nature by incorporating natural elements and patterns into the built environment. Biophilic design capitalises on this concept to create spaces that promote physical and emotional well-being, productivity and creativity. In this approach you can look at using wood, stone, or plants to create a sense of connection to the outdoors. A very prominent example of this is the indoor/outdoor living we all strive for. By having that connection to the environment through our home we are benefiting our health along with the environment.
You can see in the industry over the past 4 years there has been an increase in indoor plants and greenery which has an amazing impact on your homes air quality control and your personal experience within the home. This is a prime example of Biophilic design.
Lastly, we want to maximise access to natural light, where we can to conserve energy and enhance your well-being. So in this, you want to think about the placement of your windows, how they interact with the sun movement and also the addition of skylights within your home,
Natural light not only provides illumination but also creates a dynamic and ever-changing atmosphere, fostering a connection with the outdoor environment.
Sustainable interior design is an extremely important approach that prioritises human well-being, environmental responsibility, and the integration of nature and indoor spaces.
To understand a bit more about how you can incorporate sustainable design into your home contact us at info@toveinteriors.com.au
