My new home has an EV charger in the garage. I do not own an electric vehicle, but it’s still pretty cool. Look at listings of homes for sale (a hobby of mine, I confess) and you’ll see these chargers mentioned more and more often. Because EV chargers are part of new, larger trend toward sustainable interior design. And it’s quite the rage in 2025. But what is it exactly? Keep reading to find out.
What Is Sustainable Interior Design?
Generally, I think the best place to start when talking about topics like this is with a definition. So what is sustainable interior design? It’s interior design that focuses on energy usage within your home. Accordingly, this involves selecting energy-efficient lighting, appliances, and HVAC systems. It also means utilizing natural light as well as passive heating and cooling. And it includes buying items that are produced with sustainability in mind, like bamboo flooring and responsibly sourced furnishings.
Replacing Light Fixtures and Appliances Is A Key Part of Sustainable Interior Design
I don’t know about you, but I am not particularly jazzed about having to buy new appliances, especially if it’s because they have failed me. It’s often an expense that you’re not planning and then… ouch! But with sustainable interior design you consciously chose to replace appliances and lighting to increase energy efficiency. It saves you cash in the long run and helps out the planet at the same time. The same is true with heating and cooling systems. Perhaps you take out an old, oil-burning system for a high-efficiency heat pump or a min-split cooling system. Sustainable interior design is forward-thinking and earth-friendly.
Passive Heating and Cooling is Sustainable
You lose a lot of your heating and cooling through your windows. Consequently, energy efficient window treatments are sustainable. You let in the sun during the day in colder months, and shut them up tight in the dark to keep in the warmth. In warmer months you might do the exact opposite to keep the house cooler. You use less energy and save some money on your heating and cooling bills with this little trick.
Read more about some of these window treatments in my previous blog: Benefits of Room-Darkening Curtains. And by-the-way: thrift and consignment stores, like Consignments Ltd., are a great places to score window treatments at significant savings.
And Guess What? Thrifting Is Sustainable Too!
Responsibly sourced furniture and home goods are a big part of sustainable interior design. Buy things that are made with less energy or made with renewal resources and you’re on trend. And if you want to catch the wave, but aren’t up for adding your own EV charger or don’t feel like buying a new fridge this week, don’t despair. Every time you thrift something for your home you are practicing sustainable interior design! Go you!
If you’re hungry for more, check out this related read: What is Biophilic Interior Design?
No Comments