Eco-friendly Decor Ideas You Can (And Must) Try!

One of the best things that have happened in recent times is that the design world has taken environmental sustainability to heart. Interior designers, furniture makers, and even decor retailers are now serious about being environmentally-friendly in their craft. So for us, home dwellers, it's now oh-so-easy to decorate our homes with eco-friendly chic.

As Earth Day approaches, why don't we dig in to this worthy trend? Here are gorgeous, affordable, nature-friendly decor tips you must try on your home makeover or party decorating.

 

Eco-friendly Decor For Home

1. Go green with plants.

Of course, nothing beats living, thriving plants to add natural beauty into your home. Sometimes, you don't even need other decorations to freshen up the room -- just a few verdant indoor plants can liven it up instantly! For fresh and attractive plant decorating ideas, check out our tips here.

Wall art pictured above: "Home" Premium Canvas

 

2. Use natural light when available.

Why spend on additional lamps and bulbs when you have gorgeous (and free!) natural light? Not to mention, this type of lighting is optimal for interior design -- just ask any photographer! To maximize sunlight, open up your windows and arrange your furniture near them.

Wall art pictured above: "Texan Family... Love"

 

3. Craft your accents.

Thank God for home decor DIY tutorials! Before you head out to the decor store to buy stuff for your walls and coffee table, consider what you can make yourself. Not only do you get to use more sustainable materials, you get to save money as well! To inspire you, here's a generous sampling of do-it-yourself accent mirrors that would look great in your home.

 

4. Choose organic over synthetic.

Many of the materials surrounding us today are so far removed from the natural -- such as plastics and synthetic fibers. Cut down on these materials and opt instead for their more organic counterparts: wool upholstery, linens and cotton draperies, and wooden furniture.

 

5. Hang canvas art instead of plastic decor.

Speaking of sustainable materials, canvas is a timeless choice even for artists. It's a great thing that there are plenty of canvas art readily available, already stretched over wooden frames so we don't have to spend extra on framing. These artworks can be even more attractive than non-sustainable ornaments, and they're usually more affordable, too.

Wall art pictured above: "You and Me, We Got This" Floral Print

 

6. Think twice about paints.

The paints used in homes and buildings typically contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are harmful to the environment and to human health. If you must repaint your walls, get informed on VOCs and read the label on paint cans before buying. Or, redecorate without painting at all! We have some fantastic tips for you here.

Wall art pictured above: "Let Them Be Little"

 

7. Repurpose old items.

We bet there are lots of stuff in your attic that can be dusted off and used in creative new ways instead of being thrown away. Old suitcases? Turn them into vintage-chic side tables. Unused wood pallets? Instant boho-chic storage. Scour the internet for endless ideas on repurposing or "upcycling" -- you'll be surprised at what you can do!

 

Eco-friendly Party Ideas

1. Fill up on flowers.

Flowers are unbeatable when it comes to decorating, so take advantage of this all-natural design element. You don't have to spend too much on extravagant bouquets. Some strategic touches of florals on the dining table or in the living room can go a long way.

Wall art pictured above: "Eat, Drink, And Be Merry" Personalized Canvas

 

2. Swap balloons with biodegradable decor.

Even party planners agree that balloons are outdated when it comes to party decor. But who needs them when you can make even prettier decor out of biodegradable materials? From cute fabric pompoms to colorful paper garlands, the possibilities are endless (and easy)!

 

3. Use natural confetti.

We're so in love with this idea! Use paper punchers to cut out shapes from colorful fallen leaves -- instant confetti! Tons of cute party points for absolutely zero cost.

 

4. Hang canvas prints instead of plastic streamers.

Plastic streamers, tarpaulin banners, and plastic "photo walls" create such a huge waste! Opt instead for fabric signage to welcome your guests into your home. Premium canvas prints are especially preferred -- you can personalize them and even keep them displayed all year round!

Wall art pictured above: Personalized Initials Premium Canvas Set

 

5. DIY, don't buy.

Buy only what you absolutely need to --the rest, you can make yourself. All it takes are some time, patience, and creativity for you to handcraft a super-cute gathering. With the guidance of many internet tutorials, you can create sustainable party decor while saving money!

Bonus tip: Enlist your family and friends in a pre-party crafting activity. Kids are especially fond of these hands-on preparations.

 

6. Choose reusable items.

Whenever appropriate, use decor, dinnerware, and washable napkins that you can reuse on other occasions. No one likes using plastic utensils anymore! And when it comes to decor, it's highly practical to hang art and wall signs that can stay in your home for years.

Wall art pictured above: Personalized "Gather, Eat, Laugh" Canvas

 

7. Give sustainable gifts.

Eco-friendly items have also become popular as party favors and special gifts. From little handmade crafts to actual live potted plants, these are a delightful surprise to your guests -- without the waste guilt. One suggestion we like is to give themed canvas artwork as a gift that matches the occasion.

Wall art pictured above: "Balls, Bats, And Baseball Hats"

 

Just looking at these decor tips makes us excited to go green in our homes and entertaining! Which ideas are you trying out?

If you're loving the canvas prints featured here, check out GearDen.com for more wall art that customers love!