Posted by
Mia Rodak, Website Manager
Friday, April 22, 2011 9:32 AM EDT
There are many ways to furnish and decorate your home that are both easy on the planet and easy on your pocket book. We've explored many of these green and budget-friendly tricks on this site many times over; up-cycling, antiquing, refurbishing, choosing vintage over new. I love all of these green decorating choices and have used several of them already in the newly-renovated house that I'm in the process of setting up.
Thing is though? Sometimes you just want something new. So rather than splurge on something that will further increase your carbon foot-print, why not choose your luxuries wisely? Today, in honour of Earth Day, I'm giving you my top five splurges with a conscience. Happy shopping, and happy Earth Day.
Hip and Healthy
Century Crib; Ella and Elliot
Expanding your family also means increasing your carbon footprint. Babies require a lot of gear, much of which can be hand-me-downs to help curb over-production. But cribs have to pass certain health and safety regulations that are changing all the time, making it difficult to go vintage and upcycle a charming old model. DwellStudio to the rescue! Their stunning Century Crib is made in Canada of solid hardwood and non-toxic finishes. Also, it's fabulous!
The Statement Piece
Jane Bi-Sectional; Gus Modern
Another made-in-Canada stunner, the Jane Bi-Sectional sofa from Gus Modern is making the rounds on design blogs and interior rags the world over, and for good reason. It's an example of exceptional design using sustainable materials, such as a solid frame made with 100% FSC-Certified Wood. If you want some serious bang for your substantially spent buck, this is a very comfortable place to start.
Sustainable Sleeping
Amenity Duvet Cover, Organic Fern Cream + Peacock; Modern Karibou
Bedding is one of those things that most of us just want to buy new. Don't get me wrong, there are handmade quilts and vintage sheets that make me swoon, but for the most part when I'm ready to redecorate my bed, I'm going to splurge on crisp, fresh, new linens. Doesn't mean that you have to choose pillows over the planet! This gorgeous handmade duvet set from Amenity is made with pure organic cotton and printed using traditional methods and eco-friendly dyes.
Multi-Purpose Must-Have
Abaca Ottoman; Crate and Barrel
I'm a firm believer in choosing furniture that can be used many places through-out your home so when the urge to redecorate strikes (as it does often, we know) you can give an old piece a fresh start somewhere else. The Abaca ottoman from Crate and Barrel is just such a piece. Occasional seating, nightstand, side table? Possibilities abound. Plus, it's made from natural abaca fibre, which is both biodegradable and eco-friendly.
Something Sparkly
Recycled-Glass Jugs; West Elm
A touch of reflective glimmer is a must in every room. But sometimes these sparkly bits are the hardest earth-friendly accessory to find. Natural materials are often soft and subtle, think stone and wood. And while metal is often polished and glam, it's not always made via the most environmentally-friendly methods. Thank goodness for glass! These beautiful recycled-glass vases from West Elm have a sweet silhouette and just the right amount of sparkle.
There you have it, green and gorgeous! Do you have any sustainable splurges to share? Do tell...