Latest trends in interior decorating: Eco chic to accents

Eco Chic.

The most current looks have always reflected what has been happening in the world Whether it’s be the fun and liberated look of the 60’s or the cool slick modern of the later 90’s these looks were reflective of the events going on in the world.

The newest look is certainly not one born out of trends but stems more out of a global concern. Eco Chic has been fast becoming the look of the moment as the awareness of environmental issues grows. As with every previous decade designers and shoppers are eager to get them homes to fit in with the world around them.

Going green has certainly not taken anything away from style. Long gone are the days of hippie or granola looking interiors in order to be eco friendly. This current look has in fact challenged designers, manufacturers, suppliers and the consumer to think outside the box on how to keep style high and mother earth even closer.

You’ll find the Eco Chic look to take on a very natural and airy style. (I often compare it to being in a sun dappled birch grove) That’s the feeling that is evoked in many Eco Chic homes. It’s all about bringing the outdoors in but also keeping it as natural and environmentally conscious as possible.

One of the first eco friendly trademarks that has emerged is the bamboo floor. But one must make sure to do their research, although almost any bamboo floor will give you the look not all are manufactured in an environmentally friendly way. Look for the types of chemicals used to treat the wood as well as the finishes and glues. Make sure the products used in the making of your floor are environmentally friendly not only in the manufacturing process but also once inside your home. Many chemicals break down over time and release harmful vapors in your homes air.

Paint is another product that has defiantly gone “green”. One of the great colours to use in an Eco Chic space is the hottest new colour Kelly Green. It makes the home look fresh and light furnishings pop against this colour. But colour is not the only thing paint can bring you regularly manufactured paints contain VOC’s which are harmful fumes released at the time of painting and as the paint breaks down over time. Most paint companies now offer either Low or No VOC paints. These paints are especially good to use in homes with occupants suffering from asthma or allergies.

Another important part of this look is the use of natural materials. Stone, wood, glass, and metal are used to achieve the Eco Chic look. But as with your floors and paint there are areas to watch out for. Research into where your product comes from is just as important as its style appeal for this look. Woods should come from trees that are not in risk of being an endangered specie and that is collected responsibly. (for every tree a company cuts down it should be planting 2 in its place). Stone and metal also have their own set of environmental issues. These should be mined and quarries with high respect to the environment and not pose any threats to surrounding wildlife areas.

The Eco Chic look really isn’t just about the look. Sure it’s about mixing natural materials in a sleek and sophisticated way. But it’s also about being responsible about the things we bring into our home. There is a responsibility that exists in all of us, weather consumer or designer, manufacturer or supplier. We should not only feel responsible but also proud to choose products that are designed to help conserve our planet, and with this new Eco Chic trend there’s no fear that we can do it in high style How’s that for having your cake and eating it too.

Shop responsibly everyone!