True Luxury Is Found In Simplicity And Sustainability
Category Property Advice
Sustainable design for every stage
You may be starting renovations, refreshing your decor, or extending your home. Using
sustainable resources and principles will never go out of fashion. Guided by sustainable
principles, your redesign can imbue a wonderful, natural ambience into your home. Going
eco-friendly from the ground up is the way to go.
Sustainable design tips
We share a few guidelines on sustainable design, so you can easily incorporate these
important elements into your home. Here are some guidelines on sustainable design:
● Embrace natural light and ventilation: Cape Town is globally renowned for its
incredible views, so open up your space to invite it in. Incorporate large windows and
skylights to maximise natural light and reduce your reliance on artificial lighting.
Strategically placed windows can also promote natural ventilation, minimising your
need for air conditioning.
● Use sustainable materials: Opt for locally sourced, recycled, or rapidly renewable
materials like bamboo, cork, recycled glass, or reclaimed wood. Consider reclaimed
elements for a touch of character and to reduce your environmental effect.
● Invest in energy efficient systems and appliances: Choose LED lighting for your
rooms and living spaces. When you're looking at your energy solutions, explore
renewable energy options like solar panels, further reducing your reliance on
municipal electrical supply. Every great redesign encompasses new furnishings and
appliances, so select energy-efficient appliances.
● Choose water conservation: Water Conservation: Install low-flow faucets,
showerheads, and toilets. You could also consider installing a rainwater harvesting
system to irrigate your garden or flush toilets.
● Take it technological: Smart home automation technologies and systems are
reshaping the way we live. Integrate smart home systems that enable you to
remotely control lighting, heating, and cooling. This will optimise your energy usage
when you're not home.
● Support local businesses: When furnishing and decorating your home, seek out local
artisans and businesses that use sustainable practices. This adds a unique touch to
your space, supports the local economy, and reduces your carbon footprint.
Sustainable decor ideas
When you're redecorating, assess your current furniture and decor. Before discarding
furniture or decor, consider upcycling or repurposing them. This can be a fun and creative
way to breathe new life into old pieces while reducing waste. When you're adding to your
decor, choose furnishings and pieces that are made from natural materials and textiles.
Introduce natural fibres like linen, wool, or organic cotton into your soft furnishings. These
are comfortable, stylish and often more durable than synthetic textiles.
Introduce natural fibres like linen, wool, or organic cotton into your soft furnishings. These
are comfortable, stylish and often more durable than synthetic textiles.
Lead a sustainable lifestyle
Beyond your physical home, embedding sustainable practices into your lifestyle further
reduces your personal carbon footprint. Before you throw an item into the bin, consider if it
can be reused, recycled, or repurposed. You'll be surprised by how much this simple
practice reduces your family's rubbish. When you consider integrating more eco-conscious
practices into your lifestyle, you naturally become a more eco-conscious consumer too.
Research the environmental practices of the brands you purchase from. The more you
know, the better decisions you'll make.
Let's tread lightly upon the Earth, as you reconsider your home and lifestyle. At Knight
Frank, we help you find the right property that reflects your commitment to Mother Earth.
Author: Knight Frank
