Sustainable Interior Design: How to Create Eco-Friendly Coastal Homes

In today’s world, eco-friendly interior design has become a hot topic in the industry, with an increasing focus on sustainable and efficient design practises. This approach to interior design not only minimises environmental impact but also promotes the well-being of those living in sustainably designed homes. All of that to say, the increasing use of green design is going to be integral in shaping the future of the design industry and the trends we can expect to see over the next few years. In this article, we’ll explore sustainable interior design trends, answer the question “What is sustainable interior design?” and share tips on creating sustainable interiors, all with a special focus on coastal homes in Cornwall. If you have any questions about sustainable interior design or how to implement these practices in your upcoming project, follow the link at the top of the page to get in touch. We would love to help you.

What is Sustainable Interior Design?

To answer the central question, sustainable interior design involves creating spaces that are environmentally responsible and resource-efficient throughout their lifecycle, from planning to demolition. It forces us to consider carbon emissions and the use of renewable materials to reduce environmental impact and positively contribute to the environment. Practically, this means selecting materials, products, and design strategies that benefit the environment and enhance occupant health and well-being.

In essence, it’s about designing your home with the environment in mind, using sustainable materials and strategies that are good for our planet.

Sustainable Interior Design Trends

The landscape of interior design is continually evolving, with sustainability recently being pushed to the forefront. Here are some of my favourite trends within ‘sustainable interior design’ that you can consider implementing, particularly suited for coastal homes:

Use of Recycled and Upcycled Materials

Designers are increasingly using materials that have been recycled or upcycled. Using these types of materials not only reduces waste but also adds a unique character to your interiors. Reclaimed wood, recycled metal, and vintage furniture pieces are popular choices to create a rustic, coastal look.

Energy-Efficient Lighting

LED lighting and smart lighting systems are becoming standard in sustainable design. The role of energy-efficient lighting in the interior design process is crucial for creating eco-friendly and cost-effective spaces. These options consume less energy and have a longer lifespan compared to traditional lighting solutions, making them the less harmful choice. Also, when working with coastal homes in particular, I always try to use as much natural light as possible by incorporating large windows and skylights in the design process – indeed if you check out some of our most recent projects, you’ll see how we’ve managed to exploit natural lighting to enhance the homes of our clients. The more natural light a room has access to, the less electricity the occupant will likely use.

Biophilic Design

Incorporating natural elements such as plants, natural light, and water features into interiors creates a strong connection with nature, enhancing mental well-being and reducing stress. This approach to sustainable design aligns perfectly with coastal living, where the beauty of the natural surroundings can be brought indoors. A personal favourite here are ‘weeping fig trees.’ They look great and contribute to creating a healthier, greener space due to its air purifying qualities.

Low VOC Paints and Finishes

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) in paints and finishes can harm indoor air quality. Low VOC and non-toxic paints that are free from harmful chemicals are being widely adopted as the sustainable alternative to create healthier living environments. Coastal homes can benefit from these eco-friendly paints to protect both the interior environment and the surrounding natural beauty.

Use of Low-Impact Sustainable Fabrics

Sustainable fabrics offer another way for you to incorporate low-impact and environmentally friendly materials into your design process. For example, choosing to rely on recycled cotton and wool helps to reduce waste and resource use, while organic hemp and linen, both extremely under-utilised fabrics, require minimal water and pesticides. Another more innovative option (that might be harder to get your hands on) is mycelium leather, made from mushroom roots – a relatively new alternative to leather that’s both biodegradable, sustainable, and vegan friendly. Opting for any of these materials in place of their more wasteful (and sometimes toxic) alternatives is a great way to reduce the carbon footprint and negative impact your project has on the environment.

Image source: https://www.zameen.com/blog/eco-friendly-fabrics-for-home.html

What are Some Examples of Sustainable Interior Design?

Example 1: Eco-Friendly Coastal Homes

Environmentally sustainable coastal homes focus on using natural and locally-sourced materials, energy-efficient appliances, and renewable energy sources such as solar panels. Incorporating elements like reclaimed wood for flooring and furniture, and using sea glass and driftwood for decor, are common sustainable practises.

Example 2: Sustainable Beachfront Residences

Beachfront residences often utilise designs that maximise natural light and ventilation. The importance of preserving natural resources in sustainable beachfront residences cannot be overstated. Using large windows and open floor plans helps reduce the need for artificial lighting and air conditioning. Additionally, incorporating rainwater harvesting systems and native coastal plants for landscaping supports sustainability.

Example 3: Green Holiday Homes

Holiday homes along the coast are increasingly adopting sustainable practises such as water-saving fixtures, eco-friendly toiletries, and energy management systems to reduce their negative impact on the environment. These homes often feature solar water heaters and composting toilets to further enhance their sustainability.

Whilst these are just some examples, if you want to discuss how you can embed sustainability into your next interior design project, give us a call and we’d love to help you devise a sustainable solution that’s bespoke to your needs.

How Can We Create Sustainable Interiors?

Step 1: Choose Sustainable Materials

Opt for sustainable materials that are renewable, recycled, or have low environmental impact. Bamboo, cork, reclaimed wood, and recycled glass are excellent choices – as a general rule of thumb, look for raw materials or recycled waste products like these. For coastal homes, consider using materials that withstand the salty air and humidity, such as teak or marine-grade plywood. Choosing to use more environmentally friendly materials is one of the easiest ways to minimise unnecessary waste without getting in the way of creating beautiful spaces.

Step 2: Maximise Energy Efficiency

Incorporate energy-efficient appliances, lighting, and HVAC systems. Use smart home technology to monitor and reduce energy consumption. Solar panels are particularly effective in sunny coastal areas, providing a renewable energy source that can significantly reduce utility costs.

Step 3: Prioritise Indoor Air Quality

Use low VOC paints, finishes, and adhesives. Incorporate air-purifying plants and ensure proper ventilation to maintain healthy indoor air quality. In coastal regions, ensuring good airflow can also help mitigate moisture issues.

Step 4: Incorporate Renewable Energy

Where possible, integrate renewable energy sources such as solar or wind power to reduce the carbon footprint of the space. Solar water heaters and photovoltaic panels are excellent choices for coastal homes, where sun exposure is high.

Step 5: Focus on Water Efficiency

Install water-saving fixtures and appliances. Consider systems for rainwater harvesting and greywater recycling. Native coastal plants in the landscape design can also reduce the need for irrigation.

Conclusion

Sustainable interior design is not just a trend but a necessary shift towards creating healthier and more environmentally friendly living spaces. By embracing sustainable materials, energy-efficient solutions, and sustainable design practises, we can significantly reduce our environmental impact and create interiors that look great and contribute towards a more sustainable future.

Whether you are looking to redesign a coastal home, renovate a beach house, or embark on a new build in Cornwall, adopting sustainable interior design practises will ensure your project is future-proof and beneficial to both people and the planet.

For more insights into sustainable interior design or to start your eco-friendly coastal home project in Cornwall, contact us today.