Today there are plenty of amazing eco resources fitting a range of budgets and styles. That's why it's easy to incorporate green living (products and materials) into any interior design project. You only have to take a look at HGTV's Green Home to see how effective and beautiful green living can be.
Many of my clients want the satisfaction of living in a fantastic looking, functional, comfortable and healthy home that they also know is eco friendly. Because I also have a passion and commitment to green design, I have found ways to accomplish this goal without compromising budget, aesthetic or schedule.
Here are just a few examples of how green living can be gorgeous … based on some of my recent client experiences.
Green Living Using Recycled Materials
- Slab countertops that are created from recycled marble are a really lovely alternative that people rave about. The material is different, eco-friendly, and really beautiful. For examples, visit EuroStoneInc.com‘s website and you'll be surprised at the variety of colors available.
- An eco-friendly pendant light made from recycled beverage bottles became the light of choice for clients wanted an eye-catching bar. Several of these lights would be perfect over a kitchen countertop too. Check out BottlesandWood.com, to see all their wonderful, recycled glass lighting fixtures.
Products and Materials for Those Committed to Green Living
- Recently I used a remarkable high quality fabric for a client's curtains and wall covering. The fabric is hand- made, hand dyed, 100% woven silk and is weaved in cooperatives in developing countries by master artisans, and addresses four aspects of sustainability: economic, cultural, environmental and social. What this company Lulan.com stands for is pretty amazing as is their remarkably beautiful fabric.
- Another outstanding and affordable green option, in this case for sofas, comes from GreenSofas.com. Here all aspects of the sofa from frame, springs, cushions, adhesives and fabrics are based on eco-friendly resources and techniques.
One thing I have learned in my experience working with green interior design, is there are several ways to have a comfortable, responsible and beautiful green home. Equally important is that these eco-friendly design options are available across all design styles from traditional to ultra modern.
Of course, many of the green living products I mention above are in my geographic area of Los Angeles. I encourage you to investigate the available green alternatives in your community. Whether you choose recycled, sustainable, socially conscious, healthy and/or energy saving products, there are a multitude of choices than can be stunning, affordable, innovative and just perfect for your space.
Rachel Carson Winokur is an award-winning Interior Designer (EttaDesigns.com) known for eco elegant solutions. She has worked for Michael Smith; quoted in House Beautiful; seen in Angeleno Interiors, on HGTV and DIY. Rachel is an Allied Member of ASID, a Certified Green Building Professional and member of the US Green Building Council, Sustainable Furnishings Council and Build It Green.
Gayle
Love the recycled marble – so many colors/patterns to choose from.