The Paisley Farmhouse

By Kristy McPherson, owner of The Design House Interiors

Green! Green! Green! We all like green and there is no better way to be greener than by going green with your interiors. Green design is on the rise and it goes beyond being efficient and attractive it is design that cares about the effects that it has on people and the environment. There are an increasing amount of green products & materials on the market today that have a healthy impact on both you and the planet. Designing and building green have both healthy benefits and financial benefits. There are many ways in which you can go green in designing your home. Some tips for going green with your interiors are listed below.

1. Use “Green” paints because they contain low levels of VOC (volatile organic compounds) or chemical emitting materials. These are air pollutants and are unhealthy to breath. There are many different ones on the market and most paint companies have their own line of “green” paint. For example, Sherwin Williams carries Harmony and Duration Home. These are both great for interior uses.
2. Use hard surface flooring that is natural and rapidly renewable such as bamboo. Also, when selecting wood flooring check to see that it is FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certified and contains low/no formaldehyde. The FSC certified woods are supplied from sources that comply with sustainable forestry practices, protecting trees, wildlife habitat, streams and soil. If you are going for the look, warmth and feel that carpet gives you consider adding and area rug to your hard surface flooring instead of wall to wall carpet.
3. Use Organic Fabrics in your design. Organic Fabrics such as cotton are grown without the use of chemicals or pesticides. Many retailers are now carrying products made with organic fabrics. They are becoming more and more popular in design.
4. When purchasing furniture always buy the best quality possible within your budget because it will last longer and you will not want or need to replace it anytime soon. Also, consider using antique furniture or refinishing the furniture that you currently have.
5. Install energy-efficient appliances such as dishwashers and refrigerators with the Energy Star™ rating. This will save both energy and green in your pocket.
6. Design around standard product sizes to reduce material waste that will end up in a landfill.
7. Consider the recyclability of all materials used to redirect their "next life" away from landfills.
8. Finally, be sure to always use environmentally safe cleaning materials to help keep your furnishing safe and your air quality healthy.

Enjoy all the benefits that going “Green” can provide you, your homes interiors and your planet.