Green and eco-friendly buildings have had a steep rise in the last ten years. As of late 2023, over 78% of consumers say they'd be more likely to buy sustainably built or designed products and homes. If you're considering putting your home on the market or you're building from scratch, this could be your time to tap into this awesome market.

Organic Interior Design Mood Board by Orange County California based interior Design firm Jess Jones Design Group.

Whether you're new to sustainability or you're looking to change things up after working in this style for years, these are the top eco-friendly design materials and ideas you'll find!

1. Remember, Insulation is King
Insulation is one of the best ways you can make any property more sustainable. Not only is this great at helping protect your home from weather fluctuations, moisture, insect life, and even sound. Keeping your home heavily insulated is one of the best choices you can make for sustainability.

You don't have to go with the classic types of insulation. Instead, consider sustainable materials like wool insulation! Made naturally, sheared from healthy and happy animals, and then cleaned before being put to use- this is one of the hottest items in sustainability.

2. Well Sealed Windows and Doors
Although this might seem obvious, you should treat your home like an aquarium. Any slight leak or gap can ruin the environment you're living in and can destroy anything from air quality to how much your energy bill costs.

Take the time to check all windows, doors, vents, and other entrances to your home. Pay attention to any air leaks or other issues that can allow the outside in. If you're buying new, look for sustainable companies that have a long history of creating good seals.

3. Intelligently Chosen Wood

Orange County, California Interior Design by Jess Jones Design Group

Where you source your wood matters! From modern crown molding to your cabinetry and furniture, the type of wood you pick will largely affect how sustainable your entire home is.

Look for locally sourced wood if possible (the longer it travels, the less sustainable the material is), and pay attention to how the wood is collected and processed. This can feel overwhelming to someone new to sustainable living, but it's a step that will give you peace of mind that you made the right choice.

4. The Details are Paramount
Although the big picture items, like flooring, furniture, siding, and roofing, may feel like the most important part, the details add up. Be careful about where you source things like ceiling fans, light switches, and your appliances.

Greenwashing is prominent in these materials, and a company simply saying it's energy efficient isn't always a great indicator. Look at what accreditations they have, whether they're transparent about sourcing and why it's sustainable, and what they do to give back to the environment.

5. Keep Noise Out
One of the largest types of pollution we forget about in daily life is noise and sound pollution. Our hearing is far more likely to be affected by enduring long-term constant noise than it is by having one or two loud noises. A great way to fight back against sound is by using wood acoustic panels!

Acoustic panels can be used in any area of the home to create a quieter home. You don't have to use this throughout your entire property, but it's a good choice to use it in spaces like bedrooms and home offices.

6. Low VOC Paint is Incredible
Paint is something in every property that isn't usually thought about. The more you consider it, the more clear it becomes that this is a product that should be more eco-friendly. Low VOC paint (or paints that have few volatile organic compounds) is a powerful tool to make your living space safer while also protecting the environment at the same time. You can find this in most colors and finishes, so it doesn't hold you back from creating a space you'll love.

7. Moisture is Blocked

The last thing you need to affect your thermally modified wood is water. Moisture can be one of the most hazardous things to make its way into your home and will cause rust, rot, mold, and so much more.

You can block moisture in many ways, using sealant, using better paint, and using dehumidifiers in areas like basements and laundry rooms, but the most important thing you can do is be aware of the signs of water making its way into your home. Missing these signs will quickly lead to issues that are pricy and time-consuming to correct.

8. Don’t Compromise Your Aesthetics
Eco-friendly and sustainable products have come a long way in the last twenty years. If you're still picturing an all-beige and white home without much character, you'll be amazed. There are brands for every style and taste out there, and they'll work with you to create something amazing.

Eco-Friendly Properties Are All The Rage
Buyers know what they want, and in the mid-2020s, we're expecting to see far more eco-friendly properties flying off the market. Whether you're upgrading a property or you're building from scratch, consider working with Jess Jones Design Group to make your home a success!

Author Bio:

Jackie Kaufman is a freelance writer who shares her knowledge and studies of the construction and renovation industries. When not writing, she enjoys spending time with her kids hiking the trails of Colorado where she and her family currently live. Jackie’s work as a freelance writer can be found on Building Product Advisor, a construction industry resource site.

Sustainable Style: Eco-Friendly Design with Cutting-Edge Materials