Environmental awareness has been on the rise in every single aspect of our lives, and interior design is no exception. Designers and homeowners alike have been embracing the eco-friendly trend and natural materials have been prevalent in interior design in the past few years. Besides being good for the environment, these materials are good for you and your family, as well. Add the warm and cozy feel they provide for any interior, as well as their highly versatile to the list of their benefits, as well. It’s no wonder why natural materials are a trend that is here to stay.
The style factor is high
There is a reason why natural materials never really go out of fashion. They are amazing neutrals and give an instant feeling of luxury and style to any space. Wood, marble, clay, terracotta and even concrete all come in colors that will fit into virtually any color scheme you come up with and enhance it. Interior designers are embracing this new environmental consciousness, and green materials are popping up everywhere. Apart from the traditional, there are many new materials available, which look great and have enhanced characteristics. The best part is that natural materials look amazing whether you use just one, or decide to mix several. Because they are always trendy, they also tend to give the space a timeless elegance.
They’re a health-conscious option
In an age when progress doesn’t always equal well-being, we are all taking efforts to do what we can for our health. Our efforts are mostly focused on diet and exercise. However, the materials we surround ourselves with can also have a huge impact on our health. Not so long ago, home building used to involve some pretty harmful practices, like using asbestos or lead. Those days are behind us now, but a lot of artificial materials are still potentially dangerous for our health. Natural materials are the best and safest option in this regard. And we’re not just talking about the lack of carcinogens either. Research has shown that natural materials have a beneficial effect on our mental health too.
They are sustainable
Natural materials are inherently more eco-friendly than their artificial counterparts, according to Antonia from EscapeWaste.com. If you’re buying locally produced materials, or, even better repurposing reclaimed or recycled materials and pieces, you can be certain in your knowledge you’re doing what you can for the planet. Reclaimed or recycled materials are also budget-friendly. Oftentimes you can get amazing pieces or materials for a ridiculously low price. You just need to look in the right place and use your imagination to figure out how to repurpose your find. In most cases, you will get superior quality for a relatively low price.
They are long-lasting
There is the reason why natural materials sometimes come at a higher price. Simply put, the quality of natural materials tends to be much better. Speaking in terms of quality, that usually translates into increased longevity. Even when, eventually (usually after many years) they do start to show some signs of wear and tear, they look much better than artificial materials. The worn look usually translates into an attractive patina which just makes the material look more attractive, instead of ragged. Of course, that doesn’t mean you should forgo proper care.
They vibe with every style
Whatever your interior design style, there is a natural material that will look amazing when incorporated. You’re aiming for a sleek, modern look? Concrete and metal are your thing. Rustic is more your speed? Terracotta and wood are the way to go. You want to achieve a minimalist zen look? Embrace bamboo and canvas. Naturals are a beautiful accent too, and they are sure to breathe some life into your neutral color palette. And finally, they are always at least a little bit unique, giving your home some much-needed character, without being overwhelming. Add some much need greenery, and your home is sure to shine.
The natural materials trend is definitely ushering in a new era in home design. It’s showing that we can be more responsible as consumers, both in regard to the planet and our own health.
