Sustainable Design Tips
Planning a new build, renovation or major re-furnishing project is a daunting task. The idea of adding sustainability as an overarching requirement may seem overwhelming, but with the right information we can all consider the impact of our purchases on the natural environment and humanity.
At Knight Varga Interiors, we believe that even small decisions can have a big impact. We aim to educate clients on easy ways to be lighter on the planet. It’s important to us that people make decisions with longevity in mind, and overall purchase less. We look at the sustainability story of every company we work with and factor this into our decision making process.
Here are 5 small things can make a big difference...
#1. Talk to your designer, architect and builder about aligning material selection with companies that have a strong sustainability story.
Many people believe that they must choose between building within a budget or building with the health of the planet in mind. There are many options today which allow for both to be true, and manufacturers’ websites are a great source of information to learn more about how they are considering the environment in their manufacturing process.
#2. When getting ready to renovate or refurnish your home, talk to your team about repurposing everything being removed, including cabinets and furniture.
A few examples, have kitchen cabinets removed and sold or donated if they are in good condition, sell furniture and lighting or donate to non-profit store that will sell them for you. Recycling is the next best option, if you have items that won’t sell in their original condition, plan to recycle everything possible. This takes a little more time in the demo process and yes, it will cost more, but it is an important step to limit items going to the landfill.
#3. When considering new purchases, shop for pieces that you will keep for a long time.
This one is easy to implement. Buy classic well-made pieces and you will be able to enjoy them, pass them down or sell them to be used by others.
#4 Plan for the Future
Future proof your home for aging in place, intergenerational living and densification. This could be something as simple as adding backing to the walls when renovating a bathroom to allow for grab bars.
When building a home or planning for a major renovation, consider where you might add an elevator in the future, or how space could be divided to allow for a separate suite for adult children returning home, a live-in caregiver or as extra income in retirement.
#5 Promote Healthy Living
Create a comfortable and safe environment for you and your family by using non-toxic materials, maximizing natural light, and adding a water filtration system and air purification system. Even just opening your windows daily to allow fresh air to flow through the house will improve respiratory health! Selecting materials that are easy to clean will increase the likelihood that daily chores get done - a clean home helps to reduce pest infestations.
When you’re ready to start your next project, reach out to us to find out more ways that we include sustainability in our design projects. Even small decisions can go a long way to make a difference.