As a society, we are becoming more environmentally aware than ever before. This is reflected in our overall design sensibility as clients are interested in products that are sustainability sourced, safe for their homes, and don’t produce a chemical odor.
According to the Sustainable Furnishings Council (SFC), by their 2018 study, 98% of respondents were interested in environmental issues with 76 percent saying they’re willing to pay more for home furnishings that are environmentally safe and stylish. Four years later, it’s still in our best interest to shift to sustainable lifestyles. A key way that we can contribute to lowering our environmental footprint is to source domestic, and even locally made products, wherever and whenever possible. This reduces the environmental impact of transporting product long distances, and it’s a great way to support your community. Here are some of my favorite environmentally conscious products in the categories of wood, tile, and textiles.
Wood
Some great American made product can be sourced from small batch real wood furniture makers like:
Saloom: Based in central Massachusetts, this family owned furniture company sources from local hardwoods to create beautiful custom designed furniture.
Cisco Home: Based in Los-Angeles, Cisco Home is SFC certified and committed to responsible wood sourcing. The maker of fine quality sofas uses Forest Stewardship Council Certified wood in its frames and furniture.
Tile
Quemere Tile: This gorgeous tile is locally crafted for those who live on the East Coast. Since its carbon footprint is minimal, it’s the best of both worlds in terms of sustainability and style. This artsy product will elevate your designs to another level.
Fireclay Tile: From Aromas, CA, Fireclay Tile actively finds the most sustainable way to make tile in America. They are a carbon neutral company that is working towards becoming a zero-waste facility. The best part is that they ship fast and have an unbelievable selection!
Textiles
Wool is the original eco fiber! I have long recommended that clients choose wool for their carpet selection. It’s long lasting, easy to clean, and incredibly environmentally friendly. Wool is 100% biodegradable so it does not contribute to microplastic pollution in our oceans or on our land. It is also a rapidly renewable resource as each sheep grows 9 pounds of fiber every year, equalling to 11 yards of fabric. The wait for a wool product may be longer, but something like this is worth it. Woolmark.com has resources on where to source wool, how we can use it, and other facts about its environmental benefits! In terms of textiles, another way we can design sustainability is shopping in resale and thrift stores. Much of how we recycle cans and bottles, shopping for used textile products are a way to keep those plastics from getting into our earth.
It’s important to remember that we don’t have to make our difference to the environment ONLY by huge leaps. It matters to take steps, sometimes small ones. But they ALL count toward walking down the road in the right direction!
If you’re interested in “going green” in a plant sense, check out the Biophilic Design Movement blog here!
CONSULTATION PACKAGES
Julie and her team have a passion for creating beautiful, engaging and functional spaces, focusing on both the physical as well as the emotional well being of your environment. Click on the links below for package details:
A design collaboration done between client and designer done entirely online. Purchase the package below, submit photos of the space and existing furnishings you like to see incorporated in the design and a sketch of the space with measurements.
Need some assistance in selecting paint finishes for your home? A design collaboration done between client and designer done entirely online. Purchase the package below, submit photos of the space and and fabrics.
Whether it is directing the flow of chi through the arrangement of furnishings, design or colors; Julie and her team can help you to create the spaces that support your vision of a balanced life, rich in the areas that matter to you.
There is no second chance to make a good first impression. When the time comes to sell or rent your home, ease the transition and maximize return by helping your home look its very best.