There's much to discuss regarding our projects, design principles, and our constant focus on users and their needs to ensure functionality. However, this time, we would like to showcase our work from a different perspective - that of sustainable design.

Sustainable interiors are frequently underestimated within the design industry, but their importance is growing as we collectively work towards a more eco-friendly future. These interiors emphasize materials and practices that minimize environmental impact while promoting the health and well-being of occupants.

At Dominowa, incorporating sustainable development principles into all our architectural projects is now standard practice. We aim to go beyond this by integrating these principles into our interior designs as well. Although often disregarded in the sustainable design process, interiors are an essential component of any building.

Natural materials

Natural clay plasters represent a sustainable alternative for walls and ceilings, offering numerous benefits in addition to their environmentally friendly nature. As a renewable resource, clay has a minimal environmental impact, and its inherent properties contribute to improved indoor humidity regulation and air quality.

In our Sylt projects, we opted for clay plasters and eco-friendly paints over materials with high volatile organic compound (VOC) content. High VOC materials can negatively affect indoor air quality, causing potential health issues for occupants. By choosing clay plasters and low-VOC paints, we were able to create healthier and more comfortable living spaces while minimizing our carbon footprint.

Introducing Circular Economy

Another approach we took to promote sustainability in the Sylt project was incorporating second-hand furniture and decorations. This eco-friendly option not only contributed to environmental conservation but also infused the space with character and personality. There are several advantages to using second-hand furniture in interior design, including waste reduction, uniqueness, and affordability.

Firstly, opting for pre-owned items gives them a new purpose while preventing them from ending up in landfills, which is particularly crucial given the substantial waste generated by the furniture industry annually. Secondly, second-hand furniture often possesses a unique charm and history that new items cannot replicate, adding character to the space.

In the Sylt project's living and dining areas, we intentionally selected pieces with distinct styles and characters that didn't perfectly match but complemented each other, resulting in a cohesive and intriguing design. The blend of various materials, colors, and textures enriched the space, making it feel welcoming and inviting. We also repurposed old surfboards and paddles as interior decorations, lending a distinctive atmosphere to the interior despite their no longer being functional.

Furthermore, second-hand furniture is typically more budget-friendly than new items, making it an attractive option for those with financial constraints or newcomers to interior design. Pre-owned items can be found at flea markets, garage sales, and online marketplaces, often at a fraction of the cost of new furniture. It's worth mentioning that large furniture retailers, such as Ikea, are also embracing sustainable practices by reintroducing used furniture into circulation. Ikea's recent "Buy Back" program allows customers to sell their gently used furniture back to the store, incentivizing sustainable choices and reducing waste in the furniture industry.

Lighting

In designing the Sylt interior, we placed a strong emphasis on both natural and artificial lighting.

Selecting energy-efficient lighting and appliances is crucial, as it helps minimize energy consumption and subsequently reduces utility bills.

While the bathrooms in our rooms lack external windows, we incorporated natural, indirect lighting through a window in the partition wall. This approach diminishes the reliance on artificial light during the day, further enhancing the sustainable design of the space.

Plants

It goes without saying that incorporating indoor plants offers numerous advantages. Beyond adding a natural touch to any space, plants play a vital role in purifying the air and enhancing indoor air quality. They can also alleviate stress and anxiety, while research has indicated that they may boost productivity and concentration.

Moreover, the strategic use of plants in interior design contributes to a visually captivating and welcoming environment. By introducing an array of colors, textures, and depth, plants can effectively transform a space, making it more engaging and inviting.

In addition to these benefits, indoor plants also contribute to a healthier living environment by regulating humidity levels and removing toxins from the air. This leads to improved overall well-being for the occupants. Furthermore, incorporating greenery in a design can create a biophilic connection, fostering a sense of harmony with nature and promoting a positive atmosphere.

Summary

If you are passionate about sustainable development in architecture and interiors, and share our commitment to minimizing our impact on the environment, we invite you to leverage our expertise and assistance in designing your next project. At Dominowa, we offer tailored solutions that integrate eco-friendly principles and materials, ensuring your space is not only visually appealing but also environmentally responsible.

Together, we can make a difference by designing spaces that not only look exceptional but also demonstrate our shared commitment to preserving the environment.