By Kari Nordgren

It used to be that green design choices referred to the color. Some of us cringe a bit as we remember the avocado green that made a hit in the sixties and early seventies. We think of it as being an "old" color…and sadly most "old" things in today's culture are considered undesirable. We are bombarded daily with messages that are designed to make us want new things and to discard the old. Color forecasters work to help marketing teams sell product by promoting new colors. As a result of these strategies we are greatly influenced by the established color trends and often feel a need to update the colors we surround ourselves with. Are you decorating green?

Green has always been a popular color preference. Grass green is considered the most restful color, probably because of how we associate it with images of rolling hills, beautifully maintained lawns and undeveloped land that turns our focus to simpler, less chaotic times and activities. Most people respond to the calming, comforting effect the color green provides in nature. Green represents fertility and life and is associated with growth, learning, harmony, healing and money.

Today however, when we hear about something being Green it's more likely referring to environmentally friendly choices. One can hardly get through the day without hearing or seeing something about green products and living. Green refers to less negative impact on the health of the environment and individuals. It's about protecting our natural resources, especially those that are being dangerously depleted. How will our choices affect our water supply, soil, and air? What effects will our choices have on people around the globe? The sustainability of a resource is a huge consideration too. Do we choose wood products from rapidly depleting species or do we choose the newly promoted woods and products like eucalyptus and bamboo that are quickly replenished? There are multiple measuring sticks that combined lead to the best green choices.

I'd like to bring attention to a Green choice that hasn't gotten much attention because it doesn't impact big business and manufacturing. This Green décor strategy is found in the philosophy and practice of redesign. Redesign professionals are trained and skilled in transforming rooms and homes without the time and expense of traditional interior design solutions. They use principles of good design and their creative abilities to make every room function well and look new without any purchases. Redesigners skillfully find ways to rearrange, reuse or repurpose existing furnishings. Using already existing furnishings is a great Green choice!

New purchases are not always necessary to give your home great new look. Yes, you may need some new furniture if your existing pieces don't fit in your new house and life anymore…but that doesn't mean you have to throw them away, contributing to the mounting landfill. Think first of how that no longer wanted piece could be refurbished, broken down to usable parts or passed on to someone else. Well constructed and designed furniture is worth re-upholstering or slip covering particularly when there is sentimental value. When new is needed, how about shopping consignment stores or other sources for pre-owned furnishings? Consider the materials and construction of the furniture you purchase and select pieces that will survive the test of time

The use what you have philosophy of redesign is great for the environment. Rearranging furnishings, reusing fabric, refinishing furniture, and repurposing the things you have allows you to borrow from the past and move in to the future in a way that is good for you and the planet

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Make the green choice today and call for your redesign appointment. Working with you for a better tomorrow. By Arrangement Interior Redesign (925)-455-4321 or email info@4roomdesigns.com