In honor of the 53rd Earth Day, we want to share a few ideas for making home design and decorating more Earth-friendly. Sometimes it's the small decisions that get us moving in the right direction; we hope you find this information useful as you improve your home, and even as you make those small choices everyday. Please join the discussion in the comments below.
Try to avoid 'fast fashion' in the home industry. We’ve all heard of the massive and unnecessary consumption and waste of low-quality clothing known as ‘fast fashion.’ But the home design industry has the same wasteful practices. Influencers would have you believe that everyone is staying ‘on trend’ and ringing in every season with new home accessories and décor. Not the case! These practices are unrealistic and unsustainable. Instead, opt for quality, timeless pieces that are built to last. Don't get us wrong, we love trends too! But, if we layer those in with smaller, less expensive accessories we will be reducing the mass that makes up our landfills. We can further reduce if we reuse, up-cycle, thrift, find a beautiful antique, enjoy the thrill of the hunt at an estate sale, or treasure a family heirloom. Bottom line, disregard trends and go with what you love! You not only will reduce your carbon footprint but you will create a more meaningful, comfortable home.
Select regionally-made materials and furniture when possible. We all make choices everyday when we purchase products for our lives and homes. Many purchases we make without much thought as to where they come from. While it is not always practical to buy items that are American-made (or manufactured regionally), it has become easier in recent years to locate such sources. Sometimes it's as easy as doing a little research before making a purchase. Selecting furniture, flooring, cabinets, and other goods made regionally can pay off, not only with reduced carbon emissions, but also with supporting your larger community while receiving high-quality goods that can last a lifetime. Definitely a win!
Here are a few manufacturers we love, making quality goods right here in the U.S.:
Phillip Jeffries - wallcovering
Cambria - countertops, surfaces, and more
Alex Conroy Textiles - upholstery fabric; San Francisco designer, made in Pennsylvania
Croft House - furniture made in Los Angeles (pictured below)
Support local artists and artisans and opt for one-of-a-kind timeless pieces. Art is one the most important elements of your home, and what makes it uniquely yours. Great art adds visual interest, color, and texture to any space. Curating your own personal collection can take years, but finding and placing the perfect piece has the power to completely transform your space. Sourcing from artists in your own community is enriching in many ways, including supporting neighbors, learning the story behind the art, and acquiring a one-of-a-kind piece that you can enjoy for a lifetime. As with Monday’s topic of ‘fast fashion,’ meaningful artwork will stand the test of time, and not end up in a landfill.
Utilize nature to beautify your home. We have all supplemented design with artificial greenery, but before going that route, consider bringing some of the outdoors in first. Natural elements are the most beautiful, sustainable, and free décor around, that won't end up in a landfill when discarded.
Reduce clutter and adopt a more minimalist approach to design. Seeing images of landfills can be a sobering reminder of the consumption and waste that's part of our culture. You don't have to be a "tree-hugger" to recognize that we are living in a disposable culture that consumes in excess of our needs. Online shopping makes it so easy to perpetuate this cycle. Earth Day is a great time to stop and reflect on this phenomenon, and recognize that it takes a shift in mindset to change these patterns. As you are selecting items for your home, try to opt for quality over quantity, and celebrate the special treasures that make your home uniquely yours.
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