Reno of the Month: Sustainable solutions in home renovations

Written by Mina Lucks, Synergy Design & Construction

While adopting sustainable changes may seem overwhelming at first, taking small and intentional steps in our interior environment is an easy way to care for our outdoor environment. 

In this blog, we explore the use of sustainable practices and eco-friendly materials that harmonize with modern design trends. 

Repurpose and Reimagine

By choosing to remodel, you’re already making a positive impact! Preserving and restoring an existing home is a more sustainable option compared to buying or constructing a new house. 

During your remodel, embrace creativity and think outside the box. Consider switching up items’ functions or giving them new life in another space. Maybe the living room lamp would work better in the kid’s room, or instead of discarding old sinks and towel racks, repurpose them into unique pieces for your garden, such as plant holders. 

Once you know you’re ready to part with something, try giving it to a friend, donating, or recycling before sending things to the landfill. There are many great resources to choose from — these are several of our go-to’s: 

• Habitat for Humanity
• Community Forklift
• Cornerstones

Eco-Friendly Materials  

Modern design offers a wide range of eco-friendly materials that achieve wonderful quality and aesthetics.  

Popular sustainable materials include reclaimed wood, recycled glass, bamboo, and so much more. You might be surprised by options like countertops made with post-industrial scrap waste and recycled paper. Not only are these materials stunning, but they also offer a great alternative to granite, which is non-renewable and fossil fuel-heavy due to long-distance transportation. 

Even paint choices can have environmental and health impacts. Opting for low or zero-VOC paints instead of traditional ones reduces air pollutants and promotes a healthier indoor space. Low VOC paints, with lower concentrations of harmful chemicals, are especially beneficial for children, the elderly, and those with asthma or allergies. 

Sustainable Practice of Embracing Natural Light 

Embracing natural light is a sustainable practice that doesn’t require a full-scale renovation. 

If you’re ready for a more transformative remodel, replacing windows without mullions is a popular trend that increases light in a space. Look at this before and after to notice the change! 

 

You can also consider taking down walls to open an area and flood it with daylight, reducing the need to use your lights. This enhances the sense of openness and interconnectedness throughout your home. 

Check out how we removed a fireplace wall to create an open-concept space with abundant natural light and better connection to the backyard. 

 

Create a Sustainable Home with Synergy 

Eco-friendly materials and practices and modern living go hand in hand, and we encourage you to take an active role in planning for a sustainable future! 

If you’re looking for guidance, Synergy Design and Construction’s Founder and Certified Green Professional, Mina Lucks, has the expertise to help you navigate the world of sustainable design. 

Reach out today to get started with Synergy!