Sustainability is as vital as aesthetics when it comes to designing a modern home. Beyond lowering your carbon footprint, a sustainable design can help you save a fortune on utility bills.
Moreover, it ensures a healthy living space that exudes happy and positive vibes. But most homeowners fail to realize that even small decor changes can make a big difference to the energy efficiency of their living spaces. If you think sustainability requires hefty investments like solar panels and energy-efficient appliances, you may never achieve it. Start small with these surefire home design tips that enhance energy efficiency to move a step forward toward your sustainability goals.
Arrange furniture strategically
Surprisingly, the furniture layout in your living area can affect its energy efficiency. The next time you plan a decor makeover for your interiors, keep circulation and lighting in mind. Rearrange the furniture if it blocks natural light and air vents. Getting more natural light can lower the bills, kill germs, and enhance the ambiance of your space. Moreover, exposing the vents improves air circulation throughout your home. Place dense furniture against exterior walls to regulate indoor temperature, as these pieces act as thermal barriers.
Enhance your flooring
Flooring is another decor element you can modify to make your home more energy-efficient. Placing large area rugs can warm up hardwood or linoleum flooring. Choose materials such as heavy wool or cotton as they absorb the heat and lower the heating costs. The best part is that you can easily roll up these rugs and store them away when the weather warms up.
Dress your windows
Another cost-effective decor idea to make your home more energy-efficient is to dress your windows. Invest in insulating blinds as they make a perfect combination of the versatility of blinds and the energy efficiency of cellular shades. Add weather-appropriate curtains to create a perfect decor plan for any time of the year. Choose curtains with a light-colored backing in summer as they can block the heat. Opt for darker curtains during the winter to retain the maximum heat.
Choose paint colors wisely
Surprisingly, the color of your walls can make your home sustainable. Light colors are ideal for accentuating natural lighting. Besides reducing the need for artificial lighting, they give a larger size appearance to your room. The next time you plan a paint project, consider the sustainability factor to pick your colors wisely. You may create an accent wall with a darker shade if you want to add a dramatic element to your decor. Alternatively, choose brighter tapestry and decor elements to get the theme right.
Go green inside and outside
Going green does more than make your home interiors beautiful. House plants can actually lower indoor temperatures and reduce your energy costs. They also enhance indoor air quality, so you need to depend less on air purifiers that sap energy. Likewise, planting deciduous trees around the boundary walls can make the interior cooler in summer and warmer in winter.
Making your home energy-efficient is far more affordable than you imagine. Try these decor ideas to achieve more with less, and get a beautiful home as a part of the package.
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