More Eco-Friendly Ways to Build Houses in 2023

To help the Earth and its inhabitants, consider these ways to make your next project more sustainable. Small efforts will bring significant benefits to the planet, homeowners, and your company.

Small Is Sustainable

Growing families may think that bigger is better, but this isn't always true for our planet. Homes today are 41% larger than in the 1970s, and this trend isn't decreasing. Larger, spacious homes are less efficient at retaining heat or cold air. They also use more materials to build, creating a significant carbon footprint.

It's clear why tiny homes have become so popular over the past decades. These living spaces are much smaller than regular houses and save energy, materials, and money during construction.

Their design encourages creativity. You'll find rotating doors that reveal hidden tables, storage under the floor, or uniquely fitted furniture that hugs smaller walls. Creating smaller homes is beneficial for the planet and presents a unique challenge in creativity for any architect.

Even if you transition to small homes — it's a big leap — any reduction in size helps conserve materials and energy.

Looking for Eco-Friendly Furniture

Filling your projects with eco-friendly furniture is also important. Construction materials contribute to deforestation, and it's essential to consider how bed frames, tables, or sofas are related to this.

Furniture can be harmful when made from wooden frames, fabrics, fillers, and toxic lacquers. Without considering the origin of materials, your choice of wood might come from a thriving forest instead of recycled material ready for use.

Eco-friendly furniture can be included in your next project — recycled materials may include anything from wood to steel or reused plastics. Many companies also invest in biodegradable options in search of a zero-waste future.

Additionally, the lifespan and durability of these items are crucial. If they last long, homeowners won’t need replacements and create more waste.

Designing for Energy Efficiency

Some projects are optimized for natural heating and cooling, which can reduce energy consumption. Some energy-efficient frames use square or higher forms.

Window placement is also important to consider. Where your building is located in the world can determine where light enters, for example, southern windows that absorb heat on the north side. Using solar movement can reduce energy needed to regulate your home.

Insulation is meant to keep heat in during winter and cool interiors in summer, but some materials are more sustainable. Straw is an excellent insulator and can be easily grown for a steady, eco-friendly supply.

Questions for Your Project

Researching ethical and eco-friendly materials can depend on thorough investigation. Greenwashing is a phenomenon where companies falsely market their products as eco-friendly using buzzwords and attractive design.

Take time to research the origin of your materials and check whether they collaborate with organizations to obtain eco-certification. That way, you can be sure that they're truly green and good for use.

The location of your next project may already be contracted, but if you have a choice of geographic point, think about how residents will find transportation around their city or area.

For many people, cars are the only way to travel, creating emissions and harming both the planet and human health. However, you can consider building near bike lanes or bus and train routes. The key is encouraging public transport where possible.

Some urban planners and developers in your region may also be interested in collaborating on a project to expand green transport efforts near your new residential complex. Would a bike lane fit within the budget? Can officials organize a city initiative for car-sharing? While this isn’t necessarily a direct design element for architects, cooperation in this area can create an eco-friendly environment for future residents and communities.

Striving for a Green Environment in 2023

Sustainability in residential spaces is essential for modern home design. Eco-friendly options are becoming increasingly known, especially on the furniture and framing materials market.

Consider these steps in your projects next year to bring real benefit to the fight against climate change and create a loving home for many years.