Sustainable Style: How to Design a Home That Feels Good and Does Good

Sustainability isn’t a trend anymore — it’s a mindset. It’s about being intentional with how we live, design, and take care of the places we call home. The most meaningful interiors aren’t just beautiful; they’re designed with purpose — supporting our wellbeing and the planet at the same time. Creating a sustainable home doesn’t mean giving up on luxury or comfort. It means choosing well-made pieces and materials that stand the test of time, ones that feel good to live with and are not only beautiful but safe, functional, and sustainable.

Why Sustainable Design Matters

Sustainability touches so much of what we do in design — from the paint on the walls to the furniture we bring in and the light we live under. And while it has clear environmental benefits, it also changes how a home feels.

Healthier living: Many conventional paints, materials, and furnishings can release toxins that affect indoor air quality. By choosing low- or zero-VOC paints, natural textiles, and responsibly made furniture, we create a healthier space — one that supports the wellbeing of everyone who lives there.

Environmental impact: Choosing vintage or repurposed pieces, energy-efficient lighting, and durable materials keeps things out of landfills and conserves resources. Over time, these decisions make a real difference — less waste, lower energy use, and a smaller footprint.

Emotional connection: There’s something special about living in a home that aligns with your values. When you know your surroundings are healthy for you and kind to the planet, there’s a deeper sense of pride and peace that comes with that.

Materials and Finishes That Feel as Good as They Look

Sustainability and style don’t have to be opposites. Some of the most beautiful products in the industry today are also the most responsibly made.

Paint: Swapping out traditional paint for low- or zero-VOC formulas is an easy way to start. Clare Paint offers GREENGUARD Gold certified, zero-VOC colors that are rich, modern, and healthy for your home. Another great option is Sherwin-Williams Harmony, a trusted low-VOC paint designed to help improve indoor air quality — a longtime favorite of ours for wellness-focused design.

Materials: Recycled or renewable materials like bamboo, cork, and reclaimed wood bring warmth, texture, and character — all while being kind to the environment.

Countertops:Sustainable quartz and recycled glass surfaces are both beautiful and long-lasting. Cambria leads the way in sustainable production and craftsmanship, creating long-lasting surfaces made responsibly in the U.S. Caesarstone and Silestone also offer eco-conscious lines that combine recycled materials with high performance.

• Recycled content and type (glass, quartz, etc.)

• Binder or resin composition (it impacts maintenance and heat resistance)

• Certifications like GREENGUARD, LEED, or NSF for quality and safety

Energy-Efficient Upgrades That Make a Difference

Design isn’t just about how a home looks — it’s about how it works. Smart, energy-efficient upgrades save money, reduce waste, and make living easier.

Lighting and controls: LED lighting and smart dimmers are small changes that make a big impact. The Google Nest Smart Thermostat is another great example — ENERGY STAR certified, intuitive to use, and designed to adapt to your daily routine while saving energy.

Appliances: Energy-efficient appliances are where sustainability meets everyday luxury. Look for models that carry the ENERGY STAR label, offer smart features like programmable cycles, and are sized right for your household.

A few great examples:

• GE Energy Star French-Door Refrigerator: Counter-depth design helps maintain consistent cooling and energy efficiency.

• Frigidaire Built-In Dishwasher: ENERGY STAR rated and engineered for better performance with less water.

• LG Front Load Washer: Uses less water and energy while offering powerful, gentle cleaning.

Designing a Home That Feels Good — and Does Good

At its heart, sustainable design is about care — for our homes, our health, and the environment we live in.

Beautiful design and responsible living can go hand in hand. When we invest in quality materials, support brands that do better, and design for longevity, we’re creating homes that nurture both people and the planet.

The future of luxury is mindful living — where every choice, from a light fixture to a fabric, is made with purpose. And that, to me, is what makes a home truly beautiful.