Architects and interior designers have been facing a challenging task of coming up with original solutions, which are also eco-friendly. With great environmental challenges all around us, these professionals really need to be on top of their game, because buyers and clients are looking for properties with green credentials.
Since there are so many aspects of our everyday life that still allow a lot of room for improvement, creating a green, eco-friendly home is a very complex task. Still, even a small change can go a long way and that should encourage us to keep looking for ways to improve our lives even further. Here are some aspects that need to be considered if you wish to contribute to environment protection.
Solar power
People have been using solar power for decades now and there have been significant improvements in the way solar panels convert the energy of the sun into electricity. With so many manufacturers offering similar products, the prices of such panels have been drastically reduced, making this investment even more attractive. Even the areas that don’t get so much sunshine can benefit from nothing more than sunlight, which is one of the reasons why solar energy has been popular for so long.
Natural light
The more natural light you provide to your home, the happier you’ll feel and the less electricity you’ll use. More glass will allow more natural light to the property and your home will not only look different, but you’ll also notice that you don’t use so much artificial light and you’re bound to feel more relaxed. This change might require a more substantial initial investment, but it’s bound to pay off relatively soon.
Green kitchen
The kitchen might not be an obvious choice when it comes to rooms that can be made green, but nothing can be further from the truth. To begin with, you can use materials such as bamboo for your cabinets and countertops, recycled glass for the backsplash. Also, by installing a modern UV water steriliser you’d be introducing the most sustainable way of providing potable water and wouldn’t have to purchase water in plastic bottles.
Using fire
Apart from looking really inviting and relaxing, a fireplace can serve other purposes, as well. The modern heating solutions allow us to use the heat generated by a fireplace to heat water, which should reduce both your heating and electricity bills. Naturally, you still can’t expect to heat all the water you need with the energy released by the fireplace, but even if you manage to use some of it, which would otherwise be wasted, you’ll notice the difference.
Size
Needless to say, the bigger the house, the greater the challenges, despite the comfort provided by a large house. If you have an opportunity to design your new home or you’re planning some renovation woks, bear this info in mind. It’s very often more important to have an efficient home than a huge space you don’t use properly.
Additional small changes
Replacing your traditional bulbs with energy-efficient LED lights will have a great impact on both the environment and your budget. Similarly, if you chose the right plants, you’ll be treated with much cleaner indoor air, since they constantly filter the air they’re exposed to. The fact that they also look great is just an added bonus.
With so many ways of making your home greener, it’s difficult to cover all the options available, but these tips should at least encourage you to think more about how you can make your home even better, more efficient and more eco-friendly.
Guest post by Carolin Petterson
About the Author
Carolin Petterson is a Business Lady and contributor for number of high-class websites. She loves to share her experiences and talk about practical solutions, but her specialties are sustainability, sustainable business and green living.
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