So you recycle, turn off the water when brushing, use earth friendly household products.... but did you know there is a whole world of eco-friendly design opportunities out there? I love it when a company touts their replantable forests, or proximity to my project to save on freight emissions. But who has the time to research and compare the sustainability practices of your decor faves? Rather than getting overwhelmed in all the green chatter going on out there, pick one thing you can do relating to home design and stick to it. Here are a few ideas to remind you of ways you can make a difference:
1. Replace all incandescent ceiling lights with LED or CFL fixtures. More expensive up front but way longer life and saves you big $$$ in the long run.
2. Buy local! There are so many great resources in our backyard. I try to specify and buy local furniture manufacturers when possible. And even if you cheat a little and buy from a local importer, at least you save on the additional trucking emissions rather than trucking your finds across the country.
3. Use no or low VOC paints. Widely available at paint stores such as Sherwin Williams and Home Depot, this one is a no brainer especially for nurseries.
4. Buy antiques! What better way to recycle than to repurpose and redo an old piece. No toxic new furniture fumes, no more trees cut down, and saving one more thing from the landfill. How simple is that?
Ok, I have had design obsessions before- tufting, nailheads, mother of pearl, antique mirror.... to name a few. Add another one to the list- printed French script on everything! I am sooo loving the vintage look of beautiful cursive script and printed text on furniture, pillows, upholstery, pillows, lamp shades, etc. I have to remind myself that not everything in a room can have this look and to use it sparingly, but it's such a classic and effortlessly casually elegant compliment to any decor. And when your little one draws on the furniture, one less thing to worry about- it blends right in! I would love to see a beautiful linen crib set with gorgeous cursive writing on the textiles- tres chic!!
