Many of the reasons sustainable materials, products are becoming more popular is also because of the health benefits inherent to using natural or eco-friendly products and materials. However, just because they’re sustainable doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice quality or style when implementing some of the latest interior design trends. In case you want a fresh look for your next interior design project, here are a handful of some innovative ideas to choose from. 

1. Acrylic Surfaces

Acrylic solid surfaces have emerged as a top choice for homeowners looking for sustainable, durable, and stylish surfaces to use in their homes. Acrylic is both repairable and renewable, making it eco-friendly and able to last an entire lifetime without much maintenance. 

Although acrylic is a form of plastic, because of its durability, easy maintenance and ability to be repaired this tilts the sustainability bar towards using it even though it is a plastic. Not all plastics are created equal and when deciding on ‘sustainable’ choices for your home improvement you must consider many things such as durability and quality, plus care and maintenance. Making sure you do not need to throw away and replace your countertop every few years is an essential element in making your sustainable choices in your home.

The benefits of acrylic solid surfaces are that they are durable, less susceptible to damage during production and transportation, and seamless. Acrylic solid surfaces are so seamless that even a multi-piece installation looks like one solid piece to the naked eye. 

Typical HVAC systems aren’t effective at heating your floors, but with radiant heated flooring, you can heat your floors and keep your heating system at a lower setting and/or use it less often. 

Radiant floor heating is more effective at heating rooms, even when compared to an HVAC heating method set at the same temperature. This makes it cost-effective and more eco-friendly than regular heating systems. Another benefit of radiant floor heating is that your home will never have any cold spots or drafts, improving the vibe of your home and your interior design as a result. 

3. Handrails

Safety is key in all home design and it does not need to look like an old person’s home or have a healthcare facility feeling to it. Handrails have become a functional addition to many interior design strategies lately. Not only do certain brands of handrails look sleek and elegant, they also provide additional safety for you and especially your elderly visitors. There are also eco-friendly options sourced via sustainable methods such as wooden handrails. Using handrails in your bathroom and shower is an especially good idea as these are the most dangerous rooms in the house according to Interior Designer, S. Lee Wright who has designed many bathrooms with the use of grab bars and handrails as part of the design.

4. Seagrass Rugs

Swap out your synthetic-fiber rug for a seagrass rug. Seagrass rugs are made from seagrasses, which are flowering plants that grow in marsh wetlands. Seagrass rugs are not only some of the most eco-friendly rugs on the planet, they’re also incredibly durable, stain-resistant, and affordable. Not to mention, they’re available in every color and style imaginable. 

From weaving lines to checkered patterns, words, shapes, and images, there’s a seagrass rug out there for everyone. They’re also made without any dangerous chemicals and are completely allergen-free. 

Sustainable Design Can Be Stylish Too!

Interior design doesn’t always mean having an authentic animal-fur rug or a leather couch in your home. Sustainability has become a key focus in interior design as of late, and the innovative materials we’ve listed here are some of the most popular right now. 

Sustainable spaces are healthier for you, your family and for the planet as well. Putting your wellbeing – and the wellbeing of our planet, - at the forefront of all your home décor decisions is something your future self will thank you for.

From heated flooring to seagrass rugs, acrylic surfaces and handrails, there’s no shortage of choices when it comes to crafting the most beautiful and eco-friendly interior possible. Implementing some of these ideas in your home or office will not only improve the aesthetic, they’ll improve your energy-efficiency and have a more positive impact on the environment as well.