The interest in creating "green" or "eco-friendly" living spaces has never been greater. The interior design industry is responding to the increased demand with countless new products and techniques.
A green product is generally not treated with dangerous chemicals and was harvested or produced under environmentally sound guidelines. There are dozens of ways you can make your home greener. In this newsletter, we are going to focus on the two most popular interior design upgrades – paint and flooring.
Paint - The EPA says indoor air pollution is one of the top five leading health risks in America. One of the biggest culprits is latex-based paints and other household projects that contain volatile organic compounds (VOC's). Fortunately, there are great alternatives now available. One of the most exciting new products is ceramic wall paint. It can provide a terrific finish that is durable and even resistant to mold, mildew and bacteria. Traditional wood finishes, such as milk paints, are also generally considered better than petroleum-based products for people with allergies and other sensitivities.
Bamboo flooring is visually striking and even less expensive than most hardwood flooring. Plus, it is durable, anti-microbial and water resistant. Bamboo flooring is less harmful to the environment because it grows so rapidly. Manufacturers can harvest canes in just a few years, instead of stripping old-growth forests.
Cork flooring is an exciting, fresh idea in flooring. It comes in dozens of beautiful colors and is highly durable, insulating, and comfortable. Many cork floors are made from leftovers used in the production of wine bottle corks. Cork is considered eco-friendly because it is taken from the bark of oak trees, without killing the tree.
Natural Linoleum is created from linseed, limestone, jute, cork, and tree rosin. You can find it in amazing colors, making it a terrific designer’s choice. It also will last around 40 years! Plus, it is biodegradable, non-toxic, anti-microbial, and easy to clean. I suggest incorporating various colors and borders to create a custom design.
Hardwood floors can also be a great eco-friendly choice if the wood comes from sustainable forestry initiatives. Called "ecotimber", these exotic hardwoods offer incredible beauty, hardness, and durability. Look for Brazilian cherry and Caribbean walnut. (See "Ask J. West" for more info.)
Carpet made from wool, hemp, cotton or other natural fibers is a great green choice. Just make sure the carpet is tacked down, instead of glued down. Natural fiber carpets do not release chemical fumes into the home, unlike many synthetic carpets and adhesives. Although natural carpets tend to be more expensive than nylon carpets, you reap the benefits every time you inhale. Look for the Carpet and Rug Institute's Indoor Air Quality label.
If you are interested in creating a greener living space, give us a call. We have access to some of the most innovative products on the market. The J.West design team can help you achieve a home that is beautiful and kinder to the environment.
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