From the Inside Out: Energy Efficiency Starts With Interior Design
If you’re like most people, you probably think that interior design is simply the art of making the interiors of a home aesthetically pleasing… Well, that’s only partially true. Interior design also places focus on functionality, and for some people, efficiency; that is why we stated from the beginning that energy efficiency starts with interior design.
Of course, people want their homes to look nice and to properly function, but to make a home efficient is a conscious choice made solely by the homeowner. To have a home that’s efficient means that it doesn’t use unnecessary energy, it reduces emissions, and utilizes renewable energy resources. This, in turn, gives homeowners healthier and cleaner living spaces and it also provided significant savings on monthly expenses.
Why does energy efficiency starts with interior design
For example, a homeowner might opt out of utility resources that use fossil fuels and opt for a greener option that allows them to compare utility rates from renewable resources. But in reference to ways to incorporate energy efficiency in your home’s interiors, it’s going to start with interior design.
Maybe you’re wanting to incorporate some of the hottest home decorating trends this year has to offer. Well, little did you know that you can still incorporate those designs but look for them in eco-friendly options.
The thing that people are failing to realize with sustainable interior design is that designers are just as aware of environmental responsibility as the next person is. Because of that, they’ve created various pieces and decor that speaks to that awareness.
According to medium.com, there are five principles to follow in order to not only create a green living space but also reduce your negative impact on the environment. Everything from air circulation to heating and cooling, your interior design can make or break the total efficiency of your home.
If you’re looking to improve your home’s efficiency all while improving its aesthetics, take a look at some interior design tips to not only reduce your environmental impact but also improve the overall look of your home.
Interior Design Must’s to Improve Your Home’s Efficiency
Utilize the Power of Natural Light
People forget just how powerful natural light can be, and if your home has lots of windows, it can significantly transform the look of any room. The only thing to take into consideration with natural light is that despite its beautiful illumination of your home, it can heat up your home rather quickly, causing you to run your A/C longer to keep it cool.
Fortunately, there are ways your home can still benefit from the natural light without taking in too much heat from the sun. Adding sheer curtains is a great way to enhance the look of any room while still letting the sunshine through and minimizing the heat. You also have the option of window films that allow the sun’s natural light to shine but it also blocks the heat as well as the harmful UV rays.
This efficient interior design hack is a simple improvement that prevents you from having to unnecessarily turn on the lights during the day.
Add a Ceiling Fan
If your home has a ceiling fan, use it, and if it doesn’t, purchase one. Sometimes you don’t even need your A/C to run to make your house coo. Sometimes you can get the coolness you need simply by letting the wind from a ceiling fan cool you down. It’s definitely more efficient than running your A/C.
Just be sure to get a ceiling fan with a reversible setting so that when wintertime comes, you’ll be able to turn your blades in the opposite direction. Then cause the fan to recirculate the warm air that’s risen to the ceiling. These ceiling fans prove to be beneficial in living rooms and bedrooms but add a beautiful touch of class and sophistication to any room.
Consider Adding Carpet or Area Rugs to Your Home Interiors
One of the most popular trends in interior design these days is hardwood or linoleum flooring. These flooring options are indeed beautiful design choices but they can also be a bit cold. Carpet will make your home warmer by up to 10%!
If carpet installation is not in your budget or design scheme, you should at least consider adding a few area rugs in your home.
Area rugs are great additions because in the colder months, they too give your home added warmth and in the summer and you can easily store them in a closet until the cooler seasons arrive. Plus, rugs simply add more personality to the room, and your choice in rugs also tells a little bit about your own personal sense of style and what you like.
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