Equip windows with double glazing
According to ADEME, double glazing can reduce heat loss through windows by up to 30%. Although it is sometimes a significant investment, it is also an essential solution for reducing energy losses in your living room. Improving thermal insulation, it helps maintain a pleasant temperature all year round, and it also reduces your energy consumption.
In addition, it reinforces sound insulation: a real asset for enjoying a quieter space if you live in an urban area.
Adopt thermal curtains
Thermal curtains are a simple and effective option for limit heat loss in winter and maintain coolness in summer. Designed to be both aesthetic and functional, they come in a wide variety of designs. Consider installing them so that they completely cover your windows to maximize their effectiveness.
Choosing eco-friendly coatings
Choose eco-friendly materials like linoleum, cork or even certified wood from sustainable sources. Some eco-friendly paints are also depolluting, helping to improve indoor air quality. Lime, for example, is a natural, sustainable, and biodegradable material that allows walls to “breathe”, ideal for renovations. Wallpaper team? Choose an eco-friendly glue!
Opt for natural materials and colors
If you are creating a more eco-friendly living room, why not choose a decor that reflects this approach? Focus on pieces with organic designs and neutral tones. Linen and wool are essential. As for furniture, focus on wood. Also consider natural stone, for example by choosing a single-piece travertine table.
Upcycle, divert and revamp your furniture and accessories
The concept of upcycling consists of giving new life to old objects by giving them a new function: a good idea to give personality to the decoration of the living room. If your furniture and accessories bore you, you can simply give them a makeover or divert them: for example, transform a carpet into a wall tapestry.
DIY is a great way to express your creativity while adopting a more sustainable lifestyle: think tufting and crochet, the big trends of the moment.
Buy second-hand furniture and accessories
Opting for second-hand furniture and accessories is a great way to reduce your ecological footprint while accessing quality pieces without breaking the bank. Whether on specialized platforms, in recycling centers or at garage sales, you can find unique furniture that will bring character to your living room.
Think about timeless pieces
When choosing second-hand furniture for your living room, opt for timeless pieces that will last through the decades without going out of style. Dare to go for iconic pieces like the Egg Chair by Arne Jacobsen.
Promote recycled materials
And for new furniture? Bet on reduced recycled materials. Of course, they reduce the demand for natural resources and minimize waste. It is also the assurance of having a unique piece. Many brands now offer designer pieces made from innovative materials, made from wood, cardboard, glass or recycled plastic.
Know the eco-responsible labels
It is always useful to know the labels that guarantee sustainable and environmentally friendly practices. For organic textiles, the GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) label certifies that the fibers used are organic and that the manufacturing processes meet strict environmental and social criteria. For wood, the FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) and PEFC (Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification) labels ensure that it comes from sustainably managed forests, where biodiversity is preserved and working conditions are respected.
Favor short circuits
Buying locally made furniture and accessories reduces the carbon footprint, supports the local economy by promoting craftsmanship, and guarantees better product traceability. In addition, the pieces obtained are often unique or limited edition, adding a touch of authenticity to your interior.
Greening the decoration
Plants don’t just bring nature into your home: they also help to purify the air. Among the varieties known to be the most effective are aloe vera, sansevieria and ficus. These plants bring a touch of freshness to the living room while improving air quality.
Install low-energy light bulbs
For efficient and eco-friendly lighting, opt for LED bulbs. They consume up to 80% less energy than traditional bulbs and have a much longer lifespan.
Pay attention to the choice of candles
Candles are popular decorative elements, especially since they help create an intimate and relaxing atmosphere in the living room. However, they can have an impact on the environment and air quality. Choose candles made from soy, rapeseed or beeswax, and avoid those containing paraffins derived from petroleum.
Use energy-efficient appliances
For your electronic devices such as your television or audio system, choose A+++ rated devices, which consume less energy while offering optimal performance. Remember to turn them off completely rather than leaving them on standby, in order to avoid unnecessary energy consumption.
Review the heating mode
Wood or pellet fireplaces and stoves are more environmentally friendly alternatives to conventional electric heaters, especially if you use wood from sustainably managed forests. In fact, they use a renewable energy source with a neutral carbon footprint, as the replanted trees absorb the CO2 emitted during combustion.