Local interior design store offers eco-friendly products

FALLBROOK — The term ‘Green Design’ is becoming more and more popular. Green Design is the process of using sustainable products that foster healthy living while reducing the overall environmental impact. This includes materials that use less energy and water to produce, conserve and preserve natural resources, reduce greenhouse gas emission and create healthier environments by improving indoor air quality. Many of these products are available to homeowners interesting in improving their homes.

Eco-friendly flooring choices include bamboo, cork and a new carpet fiber from DuPont. Most carpet is petrochemical based, however this new fiber is a renewably sourced polymer made with corn. It has permanent build-in stain protection and is extremely durable and comfortable. Compared to nylon, it uses 30 percent less energy to produce and reduces CO2 emissions by 63 percent.

New fabrics that are environmentally friendly include Robert Allen’s new collection for upholstery, window coverings and bedspreads. These fabrics are made from sustainable, organic and or recycled fibers. The most revolutionary fabrics are Ado’s smart fabrics that clean the air by converting health-threatening toxins into water vapor and CO2. These fabrics can reduce airborne toxins from second hand smoke and environmental chemicals.

Window coverings are a little more complex. Essentially, all window coverings are “green,” because they block solar heat gain and reduce UV damage. There are, however, several manufacturers that take their products to the next level of global consciousness by using recycled, renewable and reduced content materials to eliminate waste, conserve water, and reduce airborne emissions. These include Graber/Springs Window Fashions, MechoShade and Avalon Shutters.

A word to the wise: many window coverings are manufactured oversees, where it is difficult to monitor environmentally damaging processes. To ensure that the products you are purchasing are safe for your home and the environment, ask about the type of paint, stain, and finishes used and the manufacturer’s environmental management system.

To learn more about these products, contact Sharon Stika, owner of Village Interiors in Fallbrook, at (760) 728-2637 or (760) 519-0361.