How to Renovate with Sustainability in Mind
Home renovations are notoriously stressful, with homeowners often unsure of where to start. Designing and decorating requires a practiced eye – especially for those taking an eco-friendly approach. There are plenty of ways to make your home greener, ensuring your family does its part to minimize its environmental impact – without sacrificing style.
This is achieved by boosting energy efficiency while cutting down on construction waste. The most eco-friendly homes utilize recycled, upcycled, or green construction materials inside and out. In fact, every design decision presents an opportunity to put sustainability in the spotlight – including flooring, lighting, appliances, furniture, textiles, and interior decor.
Our experts here at JOY Architecture give homeowners an active role in the renovation process – and in protecting against climate change and preserving natural resources for generations to come. Here we’ve described some of the techniques used when renovating and decorating your home with sustainability in mind.
Tips & Resources
Tip #1: Hire a trusted team of professionals.
When it comes to renovations, architecture, and interior design, it’s best to trust the pros. Stick with professionals who have a thorough understanding of conservation, energy efficiency, and sustainable building techniques and material use.
At Joy Architecture, we make sustainability a priority and always keep it in the forefront of our minds. If you share our passion for energy efficiency, water conservation, and sustainable material use, we would love to help. Whether you live in Charleston, SC or call Minneapolis, MN home, get in touch to learn more about our eco-conscious approach. (add a link to the contact us form).
Tip #2: Invest in Energy Star-rated appliances.
To save money while also benefiting the planet, our team prefers green appliances. We recommend investing in Energy Star-rated appliances, including water-saving fixtures like low-flow faucets and low-flush toilets. Washing machines with the highest energy rating are another great idea, along with installing LED lighting designed to save energy and cost less over time.
Solar panels are another highly efficient, affordable, and environmentally friendly option. They can be used to heat pools and water, power fans for cooking, provide energy for lights, and charge batteries. Installing solar panels reduces your building’s energy demand – and your electricity bills!
Tip #3: Design with regenerative materials and natural finishes.
When selecting materials for building, renovation, interior design, and decor, we favor naturally regenerative materials, such as bamboo or cork. These rapidly renewable resources are also a low Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) emitting product, with a net-positive effect on indoor air quality. Plus, natural finishes such as Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified hardwoods are as beautiful as they are sustainable.
Tip #4: Reduce waste whenever possible.
“Reduce, reuse, and recycle” has become a common mantra of those with an appreciation for our earth. Keeping this catchy phrase in mind when renovating or constructing can have a significant impact. Our team works with contractors who ensure that materials are properly disposed of and, when possible, recycled. The key is identifying local organizations that reuse materials removed from renovation projects. Plus, we recommend buying second-hand when possible to cut down on waste – and create unique, one-of-a-kind spaces.
Tip #5: Bring the outdoors in.
Creating a cohesive transition between your indoor spaces and the outdoors helps to incorporate natural light and fresh air. This is not only good for the planet but your mental health as well. Adding houseplants and other natural features effectively brings the outside in and cultivates a more serene living space.
Making the most of natural light offers many advantages too, such as a reduced energy demand for your home. In fact, strategic window and mirror placement plays a major role in our design method as we strive to create light-filled homes.
Tip #6: Use proper Insulation techniques.
Our designers employ proper insulation techniques and select high-quality windows to reduce heat loss or gain. Ensuring your building is insulated helps maintain a comfortable internal climate while reducing its carbon footprint.
Consider Sustainable Renovation Techniques in your Next Remodel
Eco-friendly remodeling balances the needs of homeowners and the natural environment. This approach eliminates exposure to harmful substances and chemicals while reducing a homeowner’s carbon footprint.
If you are looking for an architecture and interior design company that understands your eco-friendly home goals, JOY Architecture + Interior Design is the right choice. Plus, our team provides an incredible design and customer experience – just ask our satisfied clients!
The tips detailed above are just a few of many ways that we create durable and sustainable homes. Get in touch with us to learn more about creating a stunning, sustainable home. (add a link to the contact us form).