From Guest Blogger Lillian Connors: Going All Natural in Your Interior Design Efforts

Many different industries are slowly turning towards natural and organic elements. People have started implementing more organic food into their diets, they’re making DIY household products and creating a natural interior design is the next step. However, if you are not sure what “natural” actually means, don’t worry; you’re not alone.

“Natural” is a broad term used in interior design which encompasses renewable resources harvested from the earth. Such interior design elements have better quality and are not harmful to the environment, and that’s exactly what today’s consumers are looking for. However, how can such interior design pay off?

Renewable is durable

You probably remember those old closets or dressers from your parents’ living rooms that have been in the family for ages. Those pieces still look like new. “They don’t make things the way they used to” for sure and those old pieces of furniture still look way better than new commercial furniture. The main reason for the longer lifespan is reliance on natural products while in production.

Basically, any material that has been harvested from the earth is more durable than those synthetic ones. Some of the examples include cork, which is incredibly springy, granite, which is the hardest natural stone, and any hard wood material which is dense and sturdy. However, such materials will last even longer if they are properly maintained and handled per manufacturer’s instructions.

Better quality for less money

When engaging in any interior design project the two main concerns are the budget and duration of the certain project. If you plan on uplifting your interior design but you need to keep your budget small, then you should opt for reclaimed and renewable materials. Older pieces have higher quality than the products we get today. The reason for that is that back in the day they used larger and healthier samples for making the best products.

However, it could be tough to find such pieces today, for example mahogany wood is nearly impossible to get, but by looking in the right places you can find top quality pieces for little money. Visit thrift stores, vintage websites and some freecycling groups and you will manage to find something for your own project.

A timeless décor

By using elements and furniture made of natural materials, you are ensured an interior that lasts. Trends and tastes change frequently and you don’t want to redo your entire interior design every few years. When it comes to sustainable natural materials, they are on the top of the list of timeless designs, because they have been around almost as long as the very concept of interior design.

The first step towards a perfect design is choosing materials that will fit your personality. Find something you love and what relaxes you and don’t hesitate to incorporate it. Additionally, you can find some decorative but sustainable wood and stone furniture, as the pieces shown here, and fit them into your personal style with ease. Besides furniture, floors and window shades should also be made of natural materials. These pieces can cost a bit more, but they are bound to last and stay constant through each trend cycle.

Neutrals brought to life

Every home has neutral pieces since they are the backbone of every interior design. However, they are never the wow factor your home needs. That’s why you should rely on sustainable neutrals that will allow some other bolder aspects to pop. The elements that are harvested from nature will always vary in looks based on the place they are harvested from.

If you want to have stone countertops, its marbling patterns will vary and it will never look the same. Additionally, every wood floor will look significantly different because of the small imperfections that give it personality. All natural materials have their own quirks that provide something unique and that should become part of your design.

Renewable natural materials certainly are good for the environment. However, they are also good for your home both in the aspect of interior design and health of your family. If you rely on sustainable materials you are bound to have a timeless design that will last forever and just look stunning.