In 2022, we are part of a world that is progressively facing an environmental crisis, the urgency of which is rising everyday. We are facing the consequences of the negligent use of natural resources and we have to work hard everyday to consciously make our carbon footprint reduce and improve the environmental impact we have with our projects and actions.

Due to this, Sustainability in design has transitioned from a trend to a necessary factor. As a designer, it is the Architect’s responsibility to design a building consciously, an Interior designer’s role to maintain the indoor environment and a product designer’s role to create elements with an awareness of eco-friendly materials and techniques. This collaborative effort leads to an ideal design that minimizes the negative impact our industry has on the environment.

Sustainable or Green Interior designing can be defined as improving the quality of life of the people utilizing the indoor space by determining their relationship with the built environment and enabling maximum efficiency while minimizing negative impacts on the environment in an aesthetic manner.

The 3 important elements of Interior designing that determine the extent of sustainable living are:

1. Materials

Materials can be classified as green based on their Biodegradability, Chemical content, Longevity, and Renewability. To utilize the maximum potential of a material, the designer needs to use it accurately based on its characteristics and functionality. Similarly, the potential for the material to be recycled after use without drastically affecting the environment must be considered.

2. Lighting: 

Lighting mostly depends on the orientation of the building and the size and depth of the room.  Ample availability of sunlight, which is the primary source of daylight is known to enhance productivity especially in an office space and improve the quality of life. The primary objective of an Interior designer is to plan a space that does not hinder the natural light from entering the room and to reduce electricity consumption due to artificial lighting. This provides a healthy lifestyle and a sustainable future due to decreased energy consumption.

3. Furnishing: 

Furnishing plays an important role in the productivity of a space. Size, type, and alignment of furniture can affect the functionality and aesthetics of the space but the material used, its durability and efficiency will affect its sustainability. Practicing minimalism in Interior Design can help minimize wastage and contribute to sustainable designing.

There are a few Interior Design Styles and Aesthetics that can also contribute positively to Sustainable Designing: 

1. Green Country Look: 

Rustic spaces generally consist of eco-friendly products. Mostly an old traditional country look having recyclable reclaimed wood flooring, adds on to the beauty of these spaces. These spaces are recreated from stuff from antique stores or flea markets instead of buying it brand new from the store. This helps in contributing to a green planet too. By retaining old items, one can avoid the harmful manufacturing process for making a new one.  Make your home one-of-a-kind with a wide range of items for your rustic home.

2. Minimalism: 

Following the principles of ‘Less is More’ one can create interiors that are ergonomic and mindful along with being more sustainable. Minimalism is a method for decluttering, organizing, and simplifying, and having fewer things which means less manufacturing which in turn minimizes the negative impact on the environment.

Scandinavian design is known for its minimalist approach and focuses on the rawness of earthy, organic materials. This décor style adheres to the bare-essentials mindset by limiting the no. of items in your house that use non-renewable resources. For example, the use of natural materials like organic cotton, linen, and hemp, etc. for bedsheets and other upholstery along with using a small area rug made of jute fibers can eliminate processed synthetic materials usage.

We understand that the creation of a sustainable home requires attention to detail, and knowledge of green practices.

This is what we at Creative Architects are here for! 

We are continually working and educating ourselves in these practices, and are hoping to create Green Homes. 

Help us make the world a more sustainable place through your homes! Contact Us through our website, and visit one of our existing Sites to look at how we have designed spaces using Green practices, and how we can make things better for future generations!