Michelle Ogundehin, an interior designer who serves as a judge on Interior Design Masters and is also an author, argues that sustainable home design begins with the selection of building materials. Her approach emphasizes natural elements such as marble, granite, wood, glass, and cotton, which minimize chemical exposure while enhancing occupant wellbeing. Ogundehin stresses that the most effective materials engage the senses through texture and touch.
Synthetic materials, including nylon carpets, polyester fabrics, and medium-density fiberboard (MDF), pose significant risks by releasing toxic chemicals. She advises completely avoiding these in both furniture and flooring.
An often-neglected aspect of sustainable design is addressing drafts. Even homes equipped with solar panels or high-quality insulation can lose substantial heat through gaps around windows and doors. Sealing these openings can drastically cut energy waste. Ogundehin further recommends using eco-conscious insulation materials like hempcrete, cork, or sheep’s wool, all of which are non-toxic and fully recyclable.
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Modern heating systems allow for greater precision in temperature control. Research shows that lowering a thermostat by just one degree can reduce annual energy costs by up to £75. Ogundehin advocates for pairing this with zoned heating systems, which focus warmth only on occupied spaces rather than heating entire rooms uniformly.
Everyday habits, such as laundry routines, also play a critical role in sustainability. Washing clothes at 30 degrees maintains cleanliness while significantly reducing energy consumption. For paints and coatings, she recommends lime-based alternatives, which contain no synthetic plastics and naturally resist mold growth. The same principle applies to plaster used during renovations, where traditional formulations are replaced with safer, more durable options.
