NEW ARTICLES EVERY MONTH
May 2009
Eco-Living
Eco-living is a current trend in interior design, and it is not just spawned by energy-efficient building or modern heating technology. Sustainably produced furniture made from renewable raw materials is more in demand than ever. Let our tips inspire you.
Take the old and make it new again
New does not necessarily mean factory-new! One trend in eco-living is to use what is already there and create something new by remixing it. Tastefully combined, used furniture exudes an irresistible charm. For example, use different drawers found at flea markets and arrange them into new, very original shelves and dressers. Used kitchen utensils appear in a completely new light when used as lamps. You’ll be surprised how fitting and easy it is to make old pieces of fabric and blankets into individualised quilts. The mashup – mixing and matching of home accessories – will lend your living space personality and expression.
Living with nature
One eco-living trendsetter is the first multi-storey city house in Berlin that was completed in mid -2008 with load-bearing parts made entirely of wood. Thanks to its smart construction, the earth-friendly material provides a natural climate for living. And natural materials are also on the rise in interior design. Rough, minimally processed woods are popular for tables, seating furniture or chests. As a decorative element, the gnarly material adds plenty of atmosphere. Next time you walk in the woods or on the beach, bring home uniquely shaped branches or driftwood and hang them on the wall, either as decoration or as a useful pin board. The organic shapes and colours will have a revitalising effect. In addition, objects made of cypress or juniper wood give off a pleasant, natural fragrance.
Natural stones will give your bathroom an earthy touch. Dark slate or hand-shaped terracotta tiles are attractive for floors and flat surfaces. This timeless material radiates superior strength and elegance. Decoratively position prominent finds in your bathroom. Weathered or smoothed and rounded stones look good and touching them is a pleasure for the senses.