If I’m honest I hadn't always been environmentally conscious. It wasn’t until I bought my first home nearly 10 years ago and started decorating that I realised how much waste and consumption just one household can create. That’s when I started to upcycle furniture! Sustainable interiors have become more popular especially as people (like I have) become more aware, and interested in what we can do to help out our planet. Decorating your kitchen sustainably can be achieved in a variety of ways, including choosing eco-friendly materials, selecting energy-efficient appliances, and using low-toxicity paints and finishes. As well as using repurposed and vintage furniture. Here are some ideas for sustainably decorating your kitchen:
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Choose sustainable materials: When selecting materials for your kitchen, opt for those that are sustainably sourced and produced, such as bamboo, cork, or reclaimed wood for flooring, cabinetry, and countertops. Additionally, consider using recycled glass or ceramic tiles for backsplashes. Not only are these materials sustainable, they have the potential to create beautiful schemes that are ripe with textures and warmth.
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Use energy-efficient appliances: Energy-efficient appliances can reduce your energy consumption and lower your electricity bill. Win win!
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Incorporate natural light: Maximising the amount of natural light in your home can reduce the need for artificial lighting and lower your energy consumption. Install large windows or skylights, or consider adding a sun tunnel to bring natural light into your kitchen. A more cost effective way is to keep window treatments such as blinds and curtains, light in colour. And it may sound obvious, but a good window clean can really make such a difference. Not only Will increasing your natural light help to save money long term, but natural light has a great impact on our mood and how we feel!
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Choose low-toxicity finishes: When painting or finishing your kitchen, choose low-toxicity products to reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals. Look for low-VOC (volatile organic compound) paints, which emit fewer harmful chemicals into the air. Also look out for paint brands that ethically produce their products and offer recyclable packaging, most companies have already headed this way, but it is something to check and bare in mind!
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Embrace plant life: Plants can bring life and colour to your kitchen while also improving air quality. Consider adding potted plants or a vertical garden to your kitchen space. Plants are also great shelf styling accessories and in my opinion there is no such thing as too many plants!! If you have pets make sure you check first what is safe to have in your home!
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Reduce waste: Minimising waste can help make your kitchen more sustainable. Use reusable containers for food storage, compost your organic waste, and try to avoid disposable products such as paper towels and plastic wrap.
- Buy upcycled, vintage and repurposed furniture: Upcycled and vintage furniture is not only better for the environment than buying brand new, but it actually adds character and personality to your space as well as make it feel higher end! You can read more about how to make your kitchen feel more expensive with vintage and freestanding furniture, in my blog post, here!
By implementing these sustainable decorating ideas during your kitchen makeover, you can create a beautiful and functional kitchen all the while reducing your environmental impact.
If you would like some more info on any particular point, let me know in the comments and I will create a blog post for you in more detail!
If you are looking for sustainable yet beautiful furniture for your home or kitchen, check out my online store!
I also offer a furniture commission service where I will transform your existing furniture into something you love, or repurpose it for you completely! We can refinish the furniture to suit your home and compliment your style and personality!
I keep a constant inventory of vintage furniture ready to be redesigned for the perfect client, so if you are looking for a piece in particular, get in touch as I may already have what you are looking for in my stash!
As always, thanks for reading! Come say hi over on Insta and check out some of our behind the scenes action!
Stacey x
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