Go Green for Less Green: Create a Healthier Living Environment in 5 Easy Steps

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August 18, 2010 by Tina | Comments (0)

Did you know that you spend about 80% of your time indoors? Here in Portland, it’s important that busy entrepreprenesses are armed with the best technology, resources, beauty products, and now sustainable interior design! Sustainable interior design is more than just a trend. It refers to products and habits that foster a healthy environment such as having products that don’t emit harmful chemicals, practicing eco-friendly production methods, and supporting local businesses. If you thought sustainable living wasn’t within your budget range, think again! Read on to find out how you can create a healthier living environment in five easy steps!

1. Eliminate Clutter.
Remove materials that emit harmful gases or chemicals. Removing clutter drastically improves indoor air quality and well being in general. Taming what goes into our home, and recycling what you can helps us save money, time, stress while preventing less junk from going into the landfill.

2. Add Plants.
Plants are very affordable and beneficial in creating a healthy living space! Plants naturally eases stress and promotes relaxation. They can also be a great way to liven up a living space as they naturally clean the air and help improve overall health. Did we mention they’re beautiful as well?

3. Adjust Lighting.
The amount of lighting in a living space can directly affect your mood. Lighting can stimulate action, increase energy, promote relaxation, and encourage intimacy. Open your windows to let some natural light in, and use it as a natural source of illumination if you can. Natural lighting makes for a more attractive entrepreness as well!

4. Save Water.
Are you turning off your water while you brush your teeth? Washing a full load in the dishwasher and laundry instead of a small one? Can you take a shower in ten minutes or less? All of these small changes heavily impact our environment and your water bill over time. Water scarcity is an issue in many countries all over the world, and safe water is a limited resource that we must take care of.

5. Consider Remodeling.
After taking the baby steps to help create a healthier living environment, you may be ready to consider remodeling your home to make it more sustainable. During this step, you may consider updating the color in your home with no or low-VOC paints (ecofriendly paints). Purchasing local furniture or products from artisans in your area is a great alternative from importing overseas. Choosing local helps support your community and help thrive business in your area. We love our local businesses!

To find out more about sustainable interior design, visit these local resources!

Relish Design
1715 NW Lovejoy St
Portland, OR 97209
(503) 227-3779

The Joinery
4804 SE Woodstock Boulevard
Portland, OR 97206
(503) 788-8547

Hunt & Gather
1302 NW Hoyt St
Portland, OR 97209
(503) 227-3400

Ecohaus
819 SE Taylor St
Portland, OR 97214
(503) 222-3881

MetroPaint
4825 N Basin Ave
Portland, OR 97217
(503) 234-3000

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