"The essence of interior design will always be about people and how they live"
In today's world, choosing sustainable materials and incorporating them in interior design isn't just about following a trend—it's a mindful decision that impacts our peace of mind, health, and the planet. We're living in a toxic world whether it's in our food, our clothes or our materials we purchase to design our home. However, Knowledge is power! If we're armed with the knowledge of where we want to make a difference for ourselves and our family then we can make better decisions and make choices in the products we purchase.
There's such a vast selection and choice of products on the market when designing your home which can be daunting and overwhelming. Reading through the packaging alone can be like deciphering code. Being in the design world and surrounded with materials everyday this article is meant to educate what we've learned and to share it with you.
The good news is that many sustainable products are made without harmful chemicals, and are Low VOC (which stands for low volatile organic compounds, which are toxic chemicals that can become vapors or gases at room temperature. However, as a consumer you need to be knowledgable and ask questions and read labels before shopping as many products do contain VOC's.
Here is a list of products that VOC's are generally found in:
- Paints
- Candles
- Aerosol sprays.
- Cleaners and room deodorizers.
- Some cabinets
- Some furniture
- Some carpets and rugs
- Home decor items that are lacquered
How VOC's work?
VOC's are released into the air through a process called "off-gassing and can have adverse health effects, including respiratory problems, headaches, nausea, dizziness, and eye and respiratory tract irritation. Concentrations of VOCs are often higher indoors than outdoors, sometimes up to ten times higher.
There's an option to choose between a Low or no VOC product in the materials and products we purchase by being informed. Our goal in this blog is to help you make informed decisions on the products you purchase to keep your family healthy, safe and less toxic.
Purchasing sustainable products also reduces our enviromental impact and supports ecosystems - which let's face it makes us feel better knowing we have buying power that can make a difference and leave a legacy for future generations.
Whether it's eco-friendly home goods, organic foods, or renewable energy solutions, each sustainable choice we make has a ripple effect, making a positive impact on our lives and the world around us.
Some of our FAVE products that we curated that are sustainable and low in VOC's
Cabinet Companies that care about it's carbon footprint
At The Lifestyle Lab, we're proud to be an official dealer for cabinet companies that rate high in being at the forefront for sustainability and leaving a low carbon footprint.
Bellmont Cabinets and Canyon Creek Cabinetry, both based out of Washington state are at the forefront for building cabinets that are low VOC and sustainable at a price point everyone can afford to get into.
Bellmont's 1300 line, a value based line has cabinetry made out of recycled water bottles. They have over 60 door styles from traditional to transitional and their cabinet surfaces are made with anti-bacterial properties that block microbes cell reproduction to prevent mold growth.
Canyon Creek Cabinetry, has been around for 40 years and offers three distinct lines each with varying door styles to fit all budgets.
Both have been awarded the KCMA ESP Seal, the certification of the Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturers Association Environmental Stewardship Program (ESP). Since 2006, the ESP certification has been based on compliance in five categories: air quality and pollution prevention, resource sustainability, waste minimization, environmental stewardship, and community relations. This is the only environmental certification program that specifically focuses on kitchen and bath cabinets.
We're proud to Design Cabinets for Bellmont and Canyon Creek.
Choosing soy and natural candles over conventional ones is a decision that offers multiple benefits, both for your health and the environment.
Soy candles are made from soybean oil, a renewable resource, whereas many traditional candles are made from paraffin, a byproduct of petroleum. By opting for soy candles, you're supporting sustainable agricultural practices and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Additionally, natural candles often use cotton or wooden wicks and plant-based dyes, further minimizing environmental impact compared to synthetic alternatives.
Health considerations also play a significant role in choosing soy and natural candles. Paraffin candles can release harmful chemicals such as toluene and benzene when burned, which can contribute to indoor air pollution and pose health risks. In contrast, soy candles burn cleaner, producing less soot and fewer toxins. This means a healthier environment in your home, with reduced risk of respiratory issues and fewer allergens.
Natural candles often incorporate essential oils and natural fragrances, providing a more pleasant and potentially therapeutic experience without the synthetic compounds found in many commercial candles.
Finally, the aesthetic and functional qualities of soy and natural candles make them a superior choice. Soy wax has a lower melting point than paraffin, allowing candles to burn longer and more evenly. This not only provides better value for your money but also ensures a consistent fragrance release throughout the life of the candle. Natural candles also tend to have a more authentic and subtle aroma, enhancing your living space without overpowering it. By choosing soy and natural candles, you are investing in a product that aligns with a healthier lifestyle, supports sustainability, and offers a superior sensory experience. Who doesn't love an amazing, natural candle burning in their house!!
Here are some of our team's Favorite Candles!
Candles we LOVE that smell amazing, burn long and non toxic.... they're a Win in our book!
Eco Friendly and Low VOC Floors, Carpet and Rugs to keep your family and pets healthy and happy!
Choosing low VOC flooring is a proactive step towards creating a safer, healthier living space for your entire family, including the youngest and most vulnerable members Children and Pets. There are some great products on the market right now and we've brought the very best into our showroom for you!
We’re highlighting one of our favorite flooring companies, RIVA that is paving the way in sustainability. Here are a few ways they are making a difference as a manufacturer of hardwoods:
1. THEY CAREFULLY SELECT RAW MATERIALS Respecting the environment in every step of production is their priority. Their natural hardwoods are manufactured by following the strictest environmental standards. Raw materials, like their woods, are selected and chosen by experts in ethical and efficient management of forests.
2. THEY USE CERTIFIED FACTORIES At RIVA Spain, all natural wood floors are manufactured by an FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certified factory, an international, non-governmental organization dedicated to promoting responsible management of the world's forests. Its certification system enables businesses and consumers to choose wood, paper and other forest products made with materials that support responsible forestry.
3. REFORESTATION Planting trees promotes a greener future and makes a positive impact on our planet. For this reason Riva has formed a partnership with One Tree Planted , a non-profit organization that contributes towards reforestation efforts around the world. They plant 3 trees for each one they harvest.
4. CLEAN PRODUCTS Using non-toxic materials contributes to a healthier living. For that reason, look for hardwood floors that are Low VOC or No VOC.
Here are some other options for Low VOC flooring
Living well by choosing sustainable products encompasses a holistic approach to health and happiness that extends beyond personal benefits to global impacts. When you opt for eco-friendly goods, you're investing in your own well-being by reducing exposure to harmful chemicals and toxins commonly found in conventional products.
Sustainable products often use natural, organic, and non-toxic ingredients, promoting a healthier lifestyle. This choice also supports ethical practices and fair trade, ensuring that the workers who produce these goods are treated fairly and work in safe conditions. By aligning your purchasing habits with your values, you create a sense of fulfillment and purpose, contributing positively to both your physical and mental health.
Buying sustainable products fosters environmental stewardship and helps protect the planet for future generations. Sustainable goods are typically produced using methods that reduce environmental impact, such as conserving water, minimizing waste, and lowering carbon emissions. These practices help preserve natural resources, reduce pollution, and mitigate climate change.
By supporting companies that prioritize sustainability, you encourage more businesses to adopt eco-friendly practices, amplifying the positive effects on the environment. Living well through sustainable choices means embracing a lifestyle that values quality, responsibility, and mindfulness, leading to a healthier, more balanced, environmentally-conscious life and let's not forget a happier life!