While reading this article, anywhere you are, there’s a high probability that you might be uncomfortable with the current weather, whether it’s far hot or cold. The irregularity of the climate is turning into an ordinary issue in our earth and one of the principal reasons for this irregularity is global warming. In the current situation,  architects and designers can act as catalysts in healing the earth. The use of sustainable materials in interior layout is an eco-friendly approach that works on different layers. Sustainable materials have extraordinary benefits such as recyclability and low pollution.

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Interior of the Edge_©Raimond Wouda

In interior design, professionals have different choices of sustainable elements. The list starts with bamboo- it grows quickly and can be used for all kinds of things like flooring and furniture. Reclaimed wood is another option, it gives you a native feel and reduces the need to cut down new trees. Recycled glass is another favorite material, perfect for countertops and tiles, and eco-friendly. Recycled metal also looks good as an effective strategy. It can be molded and turned into different sorts of things.

The primary gain of using sustainable materials in interior designs is the healing of the environment. One of the primary reasons for global warming is the greenhouse gases emitted from different resources. Sustainable materials reduce the quantity of greenhouse gases and hence reduce global warming. The recycling of sustainable materials will save resources such as trees and wild animals. Some of you might wonder, how? Think about it—when we use reclaimed wood instead of chopping down new trees, we’re helping to keep forests intact and protecting wildlife habitats. when we choose materials that don’t need a lot of energy or water to make, it will also act as a catalyst in healing the earth. Sustainable materials also reduce pollution in numerous ways. Thus choosing sustainable materials in interior design we are keeping forests, water, and soil clean.

The benefits of sustainability do not end with environmental responsibility. The use of sustainable materials can be economically viable for people. These materials often help save money in the long run. They use less energy, which means it directly reduces the electricity bills. These are also designed for the long term, so we only need to spend less money on maintenance and replacement. Plus, as more and more people look for environmentally friendly options, properties with sustainable features will get more valuable. The buy choosing sustainable materials for interior design, we can save the environment and well as our pockets. 

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Interior of the Edge_©Raimond Wouda

In the case of using sustainable materials, living examples can be found all around the world. In Amsterdam, the Edge stands as the greenest workplace construction. The sustainable materials incorporated into the interior design of the Edge play a pivotal role in its environmentally conscious production. This groundbreaking construction is celebrated for its innovation and sustainability. It showcases a meticulous selection of materials that align with its commitment to sustainability. For example, the large use of double-glazed windows enhances power efficiency by minimizing heat transfer, ensuring the most fulfilling thermal insulation throughout the building. Along with maintaining the room temperature these windows also reduce the need for excessive heating and cooling, which leads to energy saving. Moreover, the incorporation of recycled glass into numerous architectural elements demonstrates a commitment to useful resource efficiency and waste reduction. The Edge sets a benchmark for sustainable interior design, showcasing how thoughtful materials selection can contribute to creating spaces that are environmentally pleasant and aesthetically appealing.

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Interior of the  Bullitt Center© Sarah Oberkhlaid

 The Bullitt Center from Seatle is another instance of the usage of sustainable materials in interior design. The construction boasts a design that seamlessly blends innovation with aesthetic enchantment, showcasing a dedication to ecological values. Its exposed ceilings and expansive home supplies natural lighting to the space, fostering an environment of openness and connectivity. This also acts as a catalyst for saving electricity. The construction includes woods-certified by the Forest Stewardship Council. The layout prioritizes flexibility and collaboration, promoting a sense of well-being among employees. By using green materials the building prioritizes the health of humans as well as the environment. In essence, the Bullitt Center’s interior design epitomizes sustainability, functionality, and beauty, serving as a beacon for a greater environmentally conscious future. 

The design of modern-day buildings, including The Edge in Amsterdam and Bullitt Center in Seattle, stands as live examples of the successful use of sustainable materials in interior design.  These designs show how thoughtful material choices and ecological design principles can result in environmentally friendly and visually beautiful spaces. By the use of reclaimed wood and recycled glass, architects and designers can play a critical role in reducing the effect of global warming and promoting an extra-sustainable future. When the world addresses the challenges of climate change, the adoption of sustainable factors in interior design represents a tangible step closer to growing a healthier environment.

References:

  • Barbulianno. (2021, April 29). The Importance of Sustainability in Interior Design. Barbulianno. Retrieved March 20, 2024, from https://www.barbuliannodesign.com/post/the-importance-of-sustainability-in-interior-design 
  • The Edge | PLP Architecture, Kawneer, Axolight. (n.d.). Archello. Retrieved March 20, 2024, from https://archello.com/project/the-edge 
  • 5 Principles of Sustainable Interior Design | by ECONYL® brand | Medium. (2017, September 5). ECONYL® brand. Retrieved March 20, 2024, from https://econyl.medium.com/5-principles-of-sustainable-interior-design-b390503a5176 
  • Oberklaid, S. (2015, April 29). Inside Seattle’s Greenest Commercial Building: The Bullitt Center. The Urbanist. Retrieved March 20, 2024, from https://www.theurbanist.org/2015/04/29/inside-seattles-greenest-commercial-building-the-bullitt-center/ 
  • Randall, T. (2015, September 23). The Edge Is the Greenest, Most Intelligent Building in the World. Bloomberg. Retrieved March 20, 2024, from https://www.bloomberg.com/features/2015-the-edge-the-worlds-greenest-building/ 
Author

Krishnanunni, an avid reader and English graduate, is passionate about films, traveling, and learning about history. He tries to capture and explore the essence of moments through the art of writing and photography.