Last week I shared my thoughts on trending colors for 2024. This week we’re jumping in to one of biggest overall trends in the world of design: sustainability. Since The Redesign Habit is all about “RE” concepts – repurposing, recycling, reusing, redesigning, and reimagining – the increased focus on sustainable interior design is a great fit that I wholeheartedly support! And the good news is there are now even more products and ideas to help us accomplish that goal. 

Sustainable Interior Design Products and Ideas 

Recycled Textiles: Everything from recycled window treatments to carpets and rugs are becoming more popular, representing a significant swing in the textile world. So if you’re in need of new textile materials this year, do a little research first to explore more environmentally options. Remember to watch the prices though, because environmentally friendly can but doesn’t always mean economically friendly.

 Flooring Products from Recycled or Eco-Friendly Materials: The choices in this space have expanded in recent years. Cork and bamboo flooring are more available and affordable than before. You’ll also find laminates and LVTs (luxury vinyl tiles) with cork backing. Again, plan to research before you plan to purchase to ensure you consider all the “greener choices” available.

Recycled and Repurposed Furnishings: If you’re an avid thrifter, this concept is part of your DNA. When you start a new house project, you naturally consider secondhand finds. Facebook Marketplace, OfferUp, thrift stores, garage sales and other venues make it easy to save money and reduce landfill waste. And don’t forget this goes both ways. If you’re getting rid of pieces that still have life, take advantage of the online platforms. You may be tired of the items in your home, but if they’re in decent shape someone will likely buy or take them from you. 

Multi-purpose Spaces: Ever since COVID reared its ugly head, our homes have been viewed through the multi-purpose lens. Knock wood, Covid is retreating, but this trend is sticking around. When you think multi-purpose, use your imagination and realize that a “bigger home” may not be needed to fulfill your bigger wants and needs. By simply reimagining the spaces you already have, you might create a variety of space-saving “slash” spaces: gaming/hobby room, den/home office, etc. And with mortgage interest rates coming down very slowly, this may offer a great long-term solution. 

Environmentally Friendly Paints: Always looking for ways to help the environment? Almost every major paint manufacturer now offers a line of biodegradable, non-toxic, and Zero VOC (volatile organic compounds) paints. I’m no chemist but “volatile compounds” does not conjure up images of happy healthy outdoor creatures. These paints are better for exterior and interior environments as many are biodegradable. You’ll pay more for “greener” paints, but if it’s important to you, the cost may be worth it. Through a little research online you’ll find a variety of options.

 Biophilic Design: I know. Use this term and sound instantly smarter. Biophilic design is becoming more commonplace now. Initially, it was all about incorporating living plants and water within an interior space to create a more healthy environment. This was a big trend in commercial spaces – which have become really challenged since the pandemic. Lately, the focus has shifted naturally to residential areas – not only incorporating live plants and water but also other natural elements such as natural woods and fibers and stone, plus natural light. Using nature itself and colors found in nature can create a greater connection between our inside and outside worlds.

 I’m excited to see the greening of design trends and hope this blog gave you some ideas to consider. If you’re inspired, get in there and do your research…remember change matters in little steps when there are many of us taking those little steps. 

Now, what will you do next to love where you live? 

Please feel free to reach out to us at The Redesign Habit and ask questions or simply share a project that you are working on or have completed. 

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