Be a part of an extraordinary movement

When I began designing interiors twenty-plus years ago, there was very little information in the industry about sustainable products and materials.  Today, everywhere you look and everything you read or hear about relates in some form to the subject of green living. This extraordinary movement has led many of us to seek alternative methods to designing our homes.  Developing a deeper understanding of where products come from and how their materials affect our lives, has given some of us a chance to re-evaluate our priorities in the way we live in our homes.  

In my own life, I have made green living part of my standard practice. I have been incrementally moving in a direction that has improved my health well-being and those of my clients in ways that have made my work more meaningful.  To be intellectually and emotionally involved in actively helping the planet is central to creating a mindset of sustainability and learning how to live together.

I am fortunate enough to live in Vermont, one of the most beautiful states in the country.  The environment is pristine and natural, encouraging healthy living for those of us who appreciate the land.  But it is also important to protect it and together we can all participate in this endeavor.  We can choose to use environmentally conscious products in our homes, utilizing natural and renewable materials.  The best choices of products to use are made from rapidly renewable resources (wool, wheat, bamboo or cork). Wood from managed forests or FSC certified (The Forest Stewardship Council), paints with lower emissions of toxic chemicals (called volatile organic compounds, or VOCs) and any recyclable materials.  

I know this is challenging, and it can be tough to sort out what's truly green.  So, in the next several weeks, I will be providing you with more information about the best products out there that can help you make the right choices for your home.  For those of you interested in checking out what's hot, I will give you the rundown on what's new in design by featuring a product, a company or a website that is truly committed to sustainability and eco-conscious practices. 

In the meantime, let's all work together to maintain a healthy way of life.  I, for one, am passionate about my life-long commitment to make the world a better place.  The home you live in is certainly a good place to start and we at Summerhouse are here to help you realize your dream of a beautiful and healthy home.

Vivianne Weil

Allied Member, ASID