Sustainability is the future of construction. Offering a higher return on investment, giving back to the environment, and giving you the opportunity to gain tax credits in some states: sustainability is the clear choice for most homeowners. How do you incorporate it into your property? Instead of allowing yourself to make amateur mistakes, these are the top ways to boost your home’s sustainability and build for the future.
Why Everyone Should Build or Upgrade Sustainably
Sustainable building is what everyone should be working towards in construction. Not only does it give homeowners a chance to create a property that will reduce the amount of pollution and waste in our environment, but it also boosts the value of their homes.
Sustainable properties are proven to sell faster and for more money than the average comparable house. This means that every cent you put into your property will return in the long run and ensure that your gift to the environment is also a gift to your future self or loved ones. Many states offer tax rebates or credits to those who build green as well!
Turning the Kitchen into a Green Space
Interior Design by Stamm and Black | Photo by Elizabeth LaDuca Photography
Your kitchen is where you prepare food for your family and create memories that can last a lifetime. This is an area we want to keep as sustainable as possible, and thankfully it's easier than you may think. From more energy-efficient appliances to greener natural lighting and sustainable cabinetry, you can achieve a lot in your kitchen.
One of the largest conversations around sustainable kitchens has been centered around countertops. Stone is, of course, the most natural material out there, but it’s not always retrieved in a sustainable way. Don’t be afraid to research Caesarstone vs. Cambria counters to see which is more sustainable for where you live, and ensure you get this detail correct.
Creating a Zen and Sustainable Home Office
Home offices are more common now than ever before. Creating a room where you can focus and get down to business is a big deal since distractions can cost money in the long run. If you're worried about sustainability here: don't be!
Home offices can be made far more sustainable through what furniture you use. Go for comfortable and locally sourced or sustainably built furniture, and avoid buying the mass-made types from popular warehouse-styled furniture companies. To take it even further, use tools like hexagon acoustic panels to block out as much noise as possible so you can focus on the task at hand instead of the noise your neighbors or family members are making.
Boosting the Future Through Furniture
Furniture is a key component of building sustainably. Not only does it fill out a room and give it the iconic style you're aiming for, but it's also what you come into contact with the most. Sustainably built furniture needs to be well made from ethically sourced materials and shipped as little as possible to make it to its final destination.
Reclaimed wood works great for chairs, tables, desks, wood inlays in walls, art, flooring, and so much more. Recycled or repurposed metal and plastic are also still sustainable despite the blanket opinion people seem to have on these materials.
Bathrooms Can Use an Eco Lift
You may think bathrooms can't change much to be more sustainable, but there's always room for improvement! Reaching for more natural and earth-friendly materials like bamboo, reclaimed wood, porcelain, or stone can be a great starting point. Using products like low-flow toilets and adding a fogged window in a dark bathroom can be enough to save on electricity and water. Many companies even offer recycled tile, which lets you give it another life.
Work From the Walls Out
The walls of your home should be considered! Whether you decide to paint, wallpaper, or go for stone veneer interior walls, the material and how you source it matters. For example, not only can you get high-quality paint that will last longer, but getting moisture-proof paint for areas like basements, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and kitchens can save you from wall damage or having to repaint again soon, which is great for the environment in the long run.
Local Resources to Keep in Mind
Don’t be afraid to reach out to local companies like HOME for help and ideas! Many of their to-the-trade upholstery lines like The MT Company are US based, and committed to quality, and sustainability as well as have a great Eco Story! Their highly skilled furniture fabricators create far more sustainable products and reduce waste wherever possible. Sustainability is Design With the Future in Mind. Updating or building your home requires you to be mindful of the future, from future trends to return on your investment, so why not keep the future environment in mind as well? Sustainability should be on the mind of all home designs, which is why working with HOME should be at the top of everyone's to-do list.
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Natalie Akins is a freelance writer that loves sharing her knowledge and expertise on interior decorating and remodeling. She lives in her hometown of Austin, Texas where she enjoys spending time with her husband and decorating with her children. Natalie’s work as a freelance writer can be found on Building Product Advisor, a new construction industry resource site.