Designing sustainbale interiors
Designing sustainable interiors is no longer a nice to have or a commendable achievement. Recent data indicates that interiors may be responsible “for emissions at least equal to those associated with the strcture and envelope of a build” (Research conducted by CLF and Seattle-based LMN Architects).
With the heightened focus on reducing carbon contributions in interiors is gaining momentum, across the design and construction industry, there is a still a lot of work to be done – starting with a change in mindset. This begins with the notion of a ‘more is more’ approach shifting towards a reduction in waste and a focus on building performance vs aesthetics. It is well known fact that the construction industry contributes to 40 % of worldwide carbon emission and 40% of landfill (in Australia). The NSW Government has released guidelines for circular design for the built environment that encourage the reduction in embodied carbon, minisation of waste, improved material efficiency and incrased circularity of materials used in projects.
But what are interior designers doing about this? Below is a deep dive into 3 strategies for designing sustainable interiors.
1. Pivot to focus on reduction, reuse, and circularity
The best solution for the planet, is to build nothing at all. But when this is not an option, minimising waste by repurposing existing materials / objects and incorporating recycled content is the next best solution. For example Nudie Jeans have developed a tile made from traded in Nudie Jeans, and have used the tile in their shop fit outs. Ultimately, reducing landfill. A strategy we can all learn from.
Often, designers place focus purely on product content and overlook the product lifecycle. Looking at the full lifecycle of a product is an important factor in specifying responsibly. When specifying, designers should look at the product extraction, production, transportation, use, and disposal of the products being specified. This is crucial as it provides the true impact on the planet. Selecting products that are designed for disassembly and recyclability at the end of a product's life cycle is also a vital step towards circularity. Joinery, furniture and fixtures for example should be designed to allow various materials such as metal and wood to be separated allow for recycling at the end of lifecycle.
Another factor to consider as a strategy to reduction, is efficient space planning. Efficient layouts can maximise space utilisation and functionality, inevitably minimize excess square meterage. In turn this will avoid overbuilding to reduce resource consumption and environmental impact.
2. Low embodied carbon and sustainable material selection
Research shows that interior designers can have a much bigger impact on climate change than they ever imagined. Studies published in 2019 and 2020 suggest that we might have underestimated the cumulative embodied carbon footprint of interior elements, as calculated over the life of a building. As buildings has become more efficient, the role that materials play has become even more important. Selecting low embodied carbon materials will ultimately minimise the carbon footprint associated with the production, transportation, and installation of building materials. Low embodied carbon materials will greatly reduce the carbon from a building over its lifetime. This is particularly important with interior renovations which occur approximately every 5-20 years.
Whilst the building structure (typically concrete/ steel) and services (such as mechanical and electrical) contain carbon, they are generally a once off. In contrast, interior renovations that occur repeatedly over the building lifecycle, dramatically contribute to the carbon produced by the building over its life span. In light of this, specifiers should opt for low embodied carbon materials as well as materials that are renewable, recycled, or reclaimed. Examples include bamboo, cork, rammed earth, clay, reclaimed wood, recycled metal, and natural fibres like organic cotton and wool. Products with Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) or third-party certifications that quantify their carbon footprint are encouraged, as this ensures legitimacy and avoids greenwashing.
Other factors to consider when selecting materials is the origin. Choose locally sourced materials and products/ made to reduce the carbon associated with transportation. High-quality, durable materials, furnishings and finishes that can withstand wear and tear over time should be selected. A timeless approach to design will avoid interiors that go out of style, reducing the need for frequent updates and replacements. Overall this approach will reduce the need for renovations and there for reduce embodied carbon over the lifetime of a building.
3. Prioritise efficiency, health and wellbeing
It is well known that spaces impact people’s health and can have a physiological impact on our wellbeing. A well-designed space lowers our bodies' cortisol levels, improves cognition, may induce calm and creativity. Interior designers are responsible for how they employ various methods that impact of our surroundings and how they affect both our physical and mental health as well as helping the planet.
Interiors designed to promote good health and wellbeing start with good air quality and natural light. Natural lighting should be installed whenever possible and consider installing smart technologies for automated energy management. Studies have found that natural light leads to better sleep quality, increased productivity, higher physical activity levels, and lower stress. These factors can promote efficiency with the buildings energy also, by incorporating energy-efficient lighting fixtures, appliances, and HVAC systems, acoustics and insulation
Materials that are heavy in toxins and silica can cause serious health impacts preventing the body from functioning properly. Interior designers should choose non-toxic and low silica finishes. These include paints, stains, adhesives, and sealants that have low or zero volatile organic compounds (VOCs) to improve indoor air quality and reduce harmful emissions. Materials with high silica content should be avoided, as they may cause breathing problems and long term impacts on the lung, notably for installers. Avoid engineered stone, some natural stone including sandstone and granite and concrete.
Biophilic design is becoming more prevalent in interiors, due to the natural beauty of plants. However this design element brings great health benefits that improve occupant well-being and productivity. Incorporate plants, natural materials, water features, and views of the outdoors to create a connection with the natural world. Soil and plants can also sequester carbon and help off set some of the carbon generated from operations.
Choose local artisans and suppliers who prioritise sustainability, ethical practices and pay living wages. Supporting local artisans and suppliers also helps to support the local economy and reduce transportation emissions.
Spaces are created for people. They should be engaged and educated about their new space. Not only its health, wellbeing and sustainability elements, but most importantly how to use and care for the space for maximum impact. Businesses should raise awareness about sustainable practices and encourage behaviour change among occupants. Provide educational resources, promote sustainable habits, and foster a sense of responsibility for the environment.
By integrating these principles into interior design, spaces that are environmentally responsible and socially conscious will work towards achieving global emissions targets.
If you are curious about designing sustainable interiors and what this could mean for your design, customer experience and sustainability strategy, reach out to hello@xpluso.co or book a complimentary consultation.