The Top 12 Sustainable Materials to Give Your Home a Fresh, Green Look

9 February, 2023 Heloise Garrity

Sustainable interior design is all about designing and decorating interior spaces that take into account the impact of design choices on the environment, people and economy. This type of design prioritises the use of environmentally-friendly materials, energy-efficient technologies and the promotion of healthy indoor air quality. If you wish to give your home an overhaul that excels on this front, consider these top 12 examples of sustainable materials, which can be used to create a beautiful, functional and environmentally responsible haven.

1. Bamboo: Bamboo is a fast-growing and sustainable material that is used for flooring, cabinetry and furniture. Not only is it renewable but also durable, making it a great choice for those who want to reduce their environmental footprint.

2. Cork: Cork is an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional flooring materials. Harvested from the bark of cork oak trees, it is naturally resistant to moisture and insects, making it a particularly durable choice for flooring.

3. Linen: Linen is a sustainable material that is often used for curtains, bedding and upholstery. It is made from the flax plant, which requires minimal water and pesticides to grow.

4. Recycled Glass: Recycled glass can be used for countertops, tiles and other surfaces in a sustainable interior design. It reduces waste and the use of non-renewable resources.

5. Recycled Plastic: Recycled plastic can be used for products such as outdoor furniture, flooring and cabinetry. Recycled plastic is durable, weather-resistant, and helps to reduce waste.

6. Reclaimed Wood: Reclaimed wood is wood that has been salvaged from old buildings, bridges and other structures. It has a unique character and charm, and furthermore helps to reduce waste and conserve resources.

7. Hemp: Hemp is a fast-growing plant that can be used for flooring, textiles and building materials. It is a sustainable alternative to traditional materials and is often grown without the use of pesticides.

8. Clay: Clay can be used for tiles, wall coverings and other surfaces in a sustainable interior design. It is abundant and renewable, making it an environmentally friendly choice.

9. Soy-Based Foams: Soy-based foams can be used as cushioning for furniture, mattresses and other items in a sustainable interior design. These foams are biodegradable and made from a renewable resource.

10. Natural Latex: Natural latex is a sustainable alternative to synthetic foam. It is made from the sap of the rubber tree and is biodegradable, making it an environmentally friendly choice.

11. Moso Bamboo: Moso bamboo is a species of bamboo that is used for flooring, cabinetry and furniture. This type of bamboo is a fast-growing, sustainable material that is not only durable but also beautiful.

12. Recycled Steel: Recycled steel can be used for furniture, cabinetry and other products in a sustainable interior design. Alongside being strong, and durable, it can be recycled endlessly, making it a great choice for those who want to reduce their environmental impact.