Green Home Inspirations

Going green does not mean you have to compromise on your design style or the quality of your design. Nor does it mean you have to spend a fortune. Due to the increase demand of consumers wanting to live healthier lifestyles, the cost of going green has decreased. For example, you can now go to the local hardware store or the big chain store to find eco-friendly paint at a reasonable price.

You are not quite ready to go green? Start small use no or low-VOC paints and water based finishes on your floor or use wool carpets with natural rubber backing. Making these changes alone drastically improves your air quality.

Here are some green home inspirational photos:

This home was designed by Kimberly Rider. The original red-oak floors were refinished with a water-based urethane. The fireplace mantel was built with formaldehyde-free MDF (medium-density fiberboard).

The use of low-VOC, the refinished kitchen cabinets and hardwood floors, halogen lighting, and energy star appliances complete this eco-friendly kitchen.

The pillows are made with vintage recycled fabrics and natural materials. The bedding is made from organic hemp, linen, and cotton fabrics that were dyed with soy-based inks. The lamps are made out of recyclable glass. Isn't the chandelier beautiful??

Here the designer and homeowner, Trudy Dujardin opted to use shutters painted with low-VOC paint. A shutter is an eco-friendly solution because it is much easier to wipe away dust that cause allergens than draperies. The use of live plants also aid in improving air quality.

The fireplace mantel and built-ins are made out of solid wood. The furniture have natural fabrics cover and custom-made cushions filled with cotton and wool.

The existing cabinets were painted with low-VOC paint and this island is made out of solid wood. The granite was finished with non-toxic sealer. The wood floor was finished with water-based urethane.

Designed by Vasi Ypsilanti and Margreet Cevasco. This home is a great example of not compromising on the quality of the design. The floor is made out of bamboo. The solar-reducing shades are made from reeds, grasses and bamboo.

My favorite photo, this antique chest was recycled and then a wood top was added to create a stunning breakfast bar.

Hard to tell from this photo, but the wall is made of out low-VOC emitting vinyl covering. The vintage table was refinished with beautiful benches to match. The seating is made from natural fabrics. The flooring is made out of natural cork.

The walls are made out of renewable bark of cork trees and most of the furnishings were recycled.

I hope these photos have inspired you to start going green!

photos are from Traditional Home.

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