Go Au Natural
Organic interiors are this year’s biggest design trend. Essentially, this concept refers to the incorporation of natural or recycled elements into household decor and design. What’s more, furnishings cannot just look natural – they must be as green or eco-friendly as possible.
“Organic is such a loosely defined topic, and when discussing organic interiors, to some the image is living on wood planks inside a yurt. To others the term might be the inclusion of living, breathing plants and trees incorporated into their interiors,” says Savannah Cavin-Winfrey, an interior designer.
Materials from Mother Nature
• Bamboo wood is a great option when it comes to wooden flooring. Bamboo is natural, and grows rapidly in nature, making it a renewable resource. It is also very durable, and has anti-bacterial properties. However, it is best to check whether the company has sourced the bamboo sustainably, and what treatment the bamboo has undergone.
• Reclaimed wood is also another option when it comes to flooring, doors and other wooden furnishings. Reclaimed wood, is, as the name suggests, wood that has already been used once in structures and would otherwise end up in the dump. It is essentially a form of recycling.
• Reclaimed stone, as with wood, is stone that would otherwise be dumped. Stone can be an unusual yet trendy design material to use for paving, flooring or decorative embellishments.
• Recycled glass tiles are another option when it comes to wall or floor coverings. They come in various colour combinations and designs, so there’s no need to compromise on style!
• Sisal, hemp and sea glass can add an interesting natural touch to your indoor decor.
• There are plenty of paints and sealants available that are free from the toxins or harsh chemicals that can harm both human health and the environment.
• Try to make use of natural fabrics in your household for curtains, duvet covers and towels. Organic cotton, hemp or bamboo are all suitable options.
• Don’t forget about your furniture. Try to invest in items that have been made locally – the fact that the piece hasn’t travelled far to get to you means that it has a lower carbon footprint.
• Upcycled furniture is another option. Traditional furnishings can receive a stylish makeover and look as good as new, if not better. There are plenty of ideas floating around on DIY sites and Pinterest to provide inspiration.
• Handmade decor items can often be greener than their shop counterparts, since the manufacturing process is less intensive.
The Golden Rules
Above all, do your research before you by! Check out the company practices – do they source materials sustainably? Are their workers treated fairly? What impact does their manufacturing process have upon the environment? These are all important questions to consider before handing them your hard-earned cash.
As green becomes mainstream, it’s important to make sure that your lifestyle also embraces an environmentally-friendly philosophy. Reassess your consumption and transportation patterns, and make small changes wherever possible.
Grace Matthews is a London-based lifestyle blogger who always keeps some carpet shampoo handy in the event of red wine spills after an evening with friends.
