With the challenges of global warming and climate change looming over our existence, it is not the task of governments alone to push for sustainability. As empathetic and aware citizens, the onus lies on us too. The choices we make today matter more than ever before. These choices include how we use our space, the furniture we buy, the materials used, and the waste we generate
Below we have listed five design principles adhering to which will help ramp up your contribution towards the global fight for climate change.
1. Choose colours intelligently – If you are wondering about the colour choice for your living space, go for bright organic and natural paints. Bright walls and ceilings not only reflect natural light, but also make for great background colour for a diverse range of decor and furniture options
2. Use eco-friendly materials – Today we have organic and natural alternatives to every material used in interior design. For example, furniture made from reclaimed wood, certified sustainable wood, or bamboo is a better choice than solid wood or plastic furniture. Similarly, buying vintage or low-toxicity furniture also make for great sustainable choices.
3. Get crafty – Go green with hand-crafted furniture. Support local craftsmen or get creative yourself. Reupholster that old couch to something entirely new, or reuse that old dresser with a new coat of paint. There is nothing more praiseworthy than a piece of decor or furniture in your living space which you have made yourself.
4. Become energy efficient– Simple design choices make for great energy savings in the long term. Filling up your space with indoor plants is always a great idea. Save energy on lighting by opting for design options that maximises the use of natural light. Use reflective surfaces in the living room that help light bounce around and brighten up your living space. Similarly, save water with intelligent landscaping and rainwater harvesting. Make sure to design with easy maintenance in mind. This will help avoid recurring monetary or environmental costs in the future.
5. Be a minimalist- Minimalism is a design principle which frees you from the all-consuming passion to possess. Modern furnitures often aspire to become minimalist in design. However, it is important for consumers to become minimalists in their own might. Buying furniture and artifacts that last a lifetime, and living with the things you really need are some simple principles you can live by, which will help pave way for a sustainable future.
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