A growing number of homeowners are seeking eco-friendly homes and interiors. This eco-conscious design approach focuses on renewable materials, energy efficiency, and ethically sourced products.
Eco-friendly materials like bamboo, cork, and reclaimed wood can add character to any space while reducing waste. Choosing low-VOC paints and other finishes reduces harmful chemical emissions. Maximizing natural light and incorporating insulation minimizes electricity consumption.

Recycled or Upcycled Materials

Recycled or upcycled materials are a growing trend within sustainable interior design. This practice transforms old, discarded materials into new products, such as furniture, that offer style and functionality. These methods limit the amount of waste that makes its way to landfills, reducing methane emissions and groundwater pollution. They also introduce a creative element to the design process, demonstrating that sustainability and style can go hand-in-hand.
Choose low-impact products that are made from natural, renewable, or recycled sources. Reclaimed wood, cork, bamboo, and compressed earth are great options for flooring, furniture, and countertops. Look for textiles made from organic cotton, linen, wool, or hemp. Choose plant-based dyes, rather than synthetic dyes, to minimize your impact on the environment.
Energy efficiency is another crucial aspect of eco-friendly design. Choosing high-efficiency appliances and fixtures reduces your energy usage, and can save you money on utility bills over time. Additionally, incorporating biophilic elements into your space enhances your quality of life by encouraging the natural movement of air and light. This practice is known to stimulate productivity and improve mental health.

Renewable Materials

Natural materials like bamboo, cork, and reclaimed wood are popular choices for furniture and decor. They have a low environmental impact, are durable, and add texture to interior spaces. Renewable materials are also a sustainable choice, as they can be replaced or reused when they are worn down.
Using energy-efficient lighting and non-toxic finishes are other sustainable design trends. These changes reduce a home’s energy consumption and help maintain healthy indoor air quality. They can even improve occupants’ mood, increase productivity, and foster feelings of well-being.
Other eco-friendly design features include maximizing the amount of natural light in a space and choosing organic textiles, like linen and hemp. These products have a lower environmental impact than conventional synthetic fabrics and are often more comfortable. Sustainable materials are growing in popularity, with options like mycelium-based products and algae-derived fabrics offering exciting new possibilities for eco-friendly interior design. In addition, sourcing local materials whenever possible helps to support the community and reduce transportation costs.

Low-VOC Materials

Many conventional paints, glues and adhesives emit volatile organic compounds, which off-gas into the air over time. These chemicals can have short and long-term adverse health effects, especially for sensitive individuals like children and pregnant women. High-VOC levels also deplete the ozone layer and contribute to climate change. Low-VOC products don’t emit these chemicals and are much safer for the environment and living organisms.
Look for a sealant, adhesive or paint with a GREENGUARD, UL Certified Low VOC or Green Seal label to ensure the product meets environmental and health standards. Similarly, choose wood furnishings with a low-emitting finish.
Another way to reduce VOC levels in your interior design is to purchase local, sustainably produced goods when possible. Doing so supports the makers and reduces the need for long-distance transportation. This can have a positive impact on your local community and economy. Additionally, purchasing locally-made goods can provide unique materials that add personality to your home. It can also help you reduce waste and eliminate the need to throw away old furniture or items that no longer fit in your space.

Energy Efficiency

The building industry is a huge consumer of natural resources. As a result, it contributes to rising CO2 levels and climate change. Eco-friendly interior design can help to minimize energy consumption by incorporating various strategies. For example, maximizing natural light sources and implementing insulating windows reduces the need for artificial heating or lighting.
Another important strategy is using low-impact materials that don’t off-gas VOCs into the air, improving indoor air quality. This helps to prevent health issues for occupants such as headaches, respiratory problems and allergies. This trend is also reflected in the use of low-VOC paints, which are more eco-conscious than traditional varieties.
Additionally, utilizing smart technologies that optimize energy usage is a great way to improve sustainable design. For example, zoning systems and programmable thermostats allow occupants to establish temperature schedules that align with their daily routines, reducing energy waste. These technologies also promote a more efficient use of water through greywater and rainwater harvesting systems. By implementing these technologies, designers can support industries that prioritize sustainability and demonstrate how sustainable practices have tangible benefits for people and the planet.

Longevity

If eco-friendly home design was once thought to be a fad, it’s clear now that sustainably minded approaches are here to stay. These ideas include using organic and renewable materials, incorporating natural elements like indoor plants and living walls, choosing energy efficient appliances, and more.
Sustainable materials like reclaimed wood, bamboo flooring, recycled glass tiles and natural stones help to reduce waste. Organic cotton, wool, jute, and linen fabrics for upholstery and curtains are durable and have an earthy aesthetic that suits many styles.
Eco-friendly options like smart appliances and low-VOC paints make a space more energy efficient, cutting down on power use and utility bills. Incorporating biophilic features like indoor plants, living green walls, and airy rugs improves the air quality in a room and promotes a sense of connection to nature. Finally, choosing a durable, versatile material that can be used for furniture or rugs and incorporating eco-friendly fixtures like LED lighting adds value to a home and appeals to environmentally conscious buyers.