interiors
Sustainable design(often referred to as green design) is concerned with the ecological, economic, ethical, health, and social aspects and impacts of design. It uses resources responsibly, in order to secure their availability for future generations.
Any interior space can contain green elements or features. As consumers, we can choose if and how to be sustainable.
eco
TM
green design
About
Visit FAQ's for more on the cost of green design.
- use waterless urinals, dual-flush or ultra-low flush toilets (saves water)
- provide views and natural light ("daylighting") for staff and patients (reduces staff turnover and decreases patient recovery time)
- install motion activated, energy efficient lighting (reduces energy use and saves money)
- paint with no VOC paint (improves Indoor Air Quality)
- made with materials containing low-toxicity (improves Indoor Air Quality)
- made from materials grown and harvested responsibly (preserves resources)
- that is upholstered with fabric containing recycled and/or organic content (minimizes waste and/or pesticide use)
- or chooses to reupholster his/her existing sofa (prevents land-filling)
In this time of economic strain, sustainable design focuses on helping people maximize the return for their money in terms of the design's initial vs. life-cycle costs. For example, will the flooring you purchase need to be discarded and replaced in 5 years? Will the water heater you install help save you money on your energy bills?
Many criteria exist for determining what the impact of a building or material is on the health of the individual and the planet.
What makes a product "green?"
1. are salvaged, recycled, or contain waste (that would otherwise end-up in a landfill).
100% post-consumer recycled glass tile
Salvaged lighting
Linoleum (which is NOT vinyl) flooring has a 25 year warranty and requires no special maintenance
Recycled rubber floors may be used inside and out, for high traffic areas, and with heavy loads
2. have exceptional durability and low maintenance.
3. minimize the use of resources and materials.
a. reduce transportation costs by using locally produced materials
b. minimize waste
Locally made tiles and counter tops(also include recycled content)
Carpet is not biodegradable. Use carpet tiles to reduce waste. Replace damaged tiles, rather than wall-to-wall.
c. use rapidly renewable resources and/or carry a third party certification of growing,harvesting and manufacturing processes.
Rubber and bamboo have harvest cycles of 10 years or less.
Wood and furniture certified by the Forest Stewardship Council
4. avoid toxic ingredients and emissions
100% wool carpets do not contain petrochemicals or emit toxins into the air.
Most commonly they:
Eco-conscious products that are luxurious and high performance are available, in high demand, and will add value to your home or business.
Contact us for information about the finishes seen on this page.
Contact us for information about the finishes seen on this page.
Case study 1: Eco-options in a residential living room renovation. The owner selects a sofa
Case study 2: Eco Options in a medium commercial medical clinic. The owner could choose to