Sustainable practice is a way of living which is the current need. It is a way of behaving with responsibility to nurture mother earth. Sustainable means lasting, so it means using resources that could be continued for a longer period. The idea is to live and develop ourselves without disturbing the natural eco system. The concept is beyond just protecting and conserving natural resources. Crop failures due to extreme weather conditions, emission of greenhouse gases, huge amounts of construction debris, natural calamities, economic downfall, increasing poverty, melting of glaciers are such indefinite difficulties faced by each species.
Although these issues are fabricated due to human activities, the impact is seen on the overall eco system. The mindful balance of three pillars – environmental, social, and economic is the basic step towards sustainability. Every pillar is dynamic and dependent on the other two pillars. Some of the top interior design colleges in Maharashtra are teaching students about sustainable interior design to make them environmentally-conscious designers. Let us understand sustainability in interior design in detail:
Three Pillars of Sustainability- Environmental, Social and Economic
The ESE concept focuses on the fact that only environmental sustainability is not good enough to fight with the current scenario. The balance maintained at three levels, i.e., environmental, social and economic is crucial. It focuses on the inter connections which are required for a healthy environment.
Environmental: This pillar protects natural resources and ecosystems. It focuses on enhancing natural habitat and reduction of use of harmful materials. Resource management is put forward through different policies based on current needs and forecasted future needs.
Social: This pillar focuses on community well-being, equity, and justice. Social progress is beneficial for every human being which includes education, happiness, human rights, and quality of life.
Economic: This pillar emphasises achieving long term economic growth of society. The cycle of employment, safe working conditions, access to basic needs and economic management for future generations is managed by this pillar.
Sustainable Interiors
Sustainable interior design means wisely choosing materials and objects that are economically and environmentally friendly. It is an approach to creating environmentally healthy and aesthetically pleasing spaces. This approach has long term positive effects on the environment, society, and economics. Architects and Interior Designers can achieve sustainable spaces by balancing the needs of clients and material choice. To reduce waste designers can choose recycling and upcycling. Reusing old furniture by refurbishing it as per the requirement of design preserves old and antique furniture. It is also called a creative reuse of discarded and unwanted furniture.
The recycling process involves breaking down old pieces and creating a new product. Upcycling refers to refurbishing it without breaking it, so it consumes less energy compared to recycling. A wooden bed converted into a sofa gives traditional appearance to the space. Vintage furniture adds charm to space along with emotional connection. Longevity and flexibility help create timeless and durable spaces which can be seen in vernacular architecture and interiors. Traditional building methods are always in association with the use of local materials, in response to the local climate and environment. It also ensures a reduction in the carbon footprint of human habitation.
Sustainable Interiors Design Materials
Reclaimed or Recycled wood: Reclaimed wood reduces the load on fresh timber used in Architecture and Interior design. Wall cladding in the interior by reclaimed wood automatically gives a rustic and vintage look to the space. Reclaimed Pine wood with visible knots is perfect for center tables, false ceiling and panels.
Old traditional buildings are always a treasure for a designer. Elements discarded from such structures like intricately carved brackets, columns, windows, doors, etc. are used in interiors of farmhouses to create contemporary style. For flooring purposes, hardwood is durable and stronger. It is available in large mats with a variety of colors. A wide range of colors, beautiful grains, knots and different sizes makes it a luxury material and its ability to save cost and energy makes it sustainable material.
Bamboo
Bamboo is a versatile material which has gained notable recognition in recent years. Both in Architecture and Interior design, the structural capabilities of bamboo help to seamlessly blend with other materials both in Architecture and Interior design. Bamboo furniture like chairs, back panels, partitions, shelves create organic and raw beauty in space. Several geometric patterns can be made with the arrangement of bamboo as it is available in different sizes. Bamboo pendants, hanging lamps, wall hangings, pergolas along with sufficient electrical lighting results in interesting patterns. Bamboo panels add depth in walls and result in interplay of shade and shadow.
Natural Stone
Natural stone is a clever choice as it is highly sustainable and available locally in every region. Natural stone is exceptionally durable and strong. Stone waste is purposely used as a road base, in landscaping, etc. It has low maintenance and is good for the longer run. Stone finds its place both in traditional and modern style. It acts as a bridge between the old with the new. Vernacular Architecture is valid proof for the durability of stone. Stone floorings with wooden furniture elevates the richness of the area.
Stone partitions along with glass creates an interesting drama of solid and transparent. Stone paving and plantation in the indoor landscape is a soothing experience for a human. Low maintenance, minimal chemical treatment, available in abundance with a variety of colors as per the region makes it environment friendly.
Conclusion
Healthy and aesthetically pleasing spaces are considered as a current need globally. Along with choosing ecofriendly materials other techniques like rain water harvesting, grey water recycling, fixing low force faucets, and energy efficient lightning, green roofs, biophilic design that incorporates nature in interior spaces, lime plastering, etc. are important aspects of sustainable designs. The reduced need for renovation and unnecessary resource consumption are the impacts of sustainable interior design practice. It develops connections between human and nature to enhance physical and mental well-being.
Pursuing a B.Des in Space and Interior Design can help you build a career in sustainable interior designing. Sustainable interior design is not only about environmental protection, it is also necessary for community well-being and catering economic crises. Different cultural inclusivity, local community engagement, designer’s knowledge and role of a client promotes sustainability for better living lifestyle.