JACKSONVILLE, JACKSONVILLE, Florida – As the focus on our environment continues to increase, people are looking for ways to green their home in eco-friendly style.  They are also looking forward to the economic benefits.

There are more earth-friendly features and renewable material choices available than ever before. With careful thought and planning, Judith Sisler Johnston, president of Sisler Johnston Interior Design and ASID Allied Member, says sustainable design for the home can add style while remaining cost effective over time.

“It is important to consider the overall positive economic impact from these environmental initiatives and how they can save homeowners in reduced ongoing operating costs,” Sisler Johnston said.  “Sustainable design is beautiful for the home and good for the environment.”

Many new or remodeled homes today include a variety of eco-friendly features.  Some are designed and constructed to reduce energy consumption while others include water-efficient fixtures that use less water than conventional plumbing.

General Electric has been a leader in the development of whole house technology appliances and lighting in this field.  Heating and air conditioning manufacturers are offering solar electric systems capable of creating and capturing electricity from the sun.  Excess electricity is then sold back to the utility company for credits against the home’s total consumption.

The selection of sustainable finish materials for the home is growing.  Wool carpeting, cork, linoleum, ceramic tile, porcelain and natural stone are renewable choices.

Many manufacturers have green initiatives that support the research and development of products from renewable sources.  Some use manufacturing processes that align with environmental concerns.  For example, forestry stewardship programs help to ensure that trees used to manufacture wood flooring are grown and harvested in ways that protect forests for the long term.  There also are many attractive natural fiber rug choices, including sisal, jute and sea grass, derived from renewable plant sources.

Manufacturers of carpet products now offer fibers made from recycled landfill materials like plastic water bottles and discarded carpeting and pads.  American grown corn is also used in the production of nylon carpet choices.

Sustainable building design also aims to create healthy buildings that are not harmful to their occupants or to the environment.  Eco-friendly materials are healthier choices since they eliminate many toxins that contribute negatively to indoor air quality. 

Sisler Johnston says sustainable design provides the greatest benefit when it is factored into a project from the start.  The earlier in the process green design is considered, it will offer greater impact and lower costs.

One of the most overlooked elements in a modern home are windows which should be designed to open for fresh air and cross ventilation.  Studies also indicate that lots of windows and light within a home contribute to the emotional well being of its occupants.

Sisler Johnston recommends consulting with a licensed interior designer knowledgeable about sustainable design before beginning any green home design project, including do-it-yourself projects.  It can be a valuable investment to have an expert review the plan and provide
recommendations.

Sisler Johnston Interior Design offers comprehensive interior design services for residential and commercial clients. The company designs private residences, builder model homes, community centers, hotel guest accommodations and office suites.  Sisler Johnston Interior Design also provides marketable designs for senior lifestyle communities.

ASID Allied Member Judith Sisler Johnston and her team of licensed, talented designers help clients enhance their surroundings with designs that range from traditional elegance to classic contemporary style.  Sisler Johnston is Jacksonville’s leading authority on designing spectacular spaces that are beautiful, functional and reflect her clients’ personalities and lifestyles.
                                                           
Sisler Johnston’s design work has been featured in numerous books, newspapers, magazines and television programs.  Sisler Johnston Interior Design celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2004 and has been recognized with more than 100 industry awards.

For more information about Sisler Johnston Interior Design, call (904) 288-0908 or visit www.sislerjohnston.com.

Photography:

1. Riverwood – Manufactured commercial laminates with the same warmth as wood flooring were chosen by Sisler Johnston for Riverwood’s Discovery Center at Nocatee.

2. Showcase Master – Carpet fibers made from recycled landfill materials are shown in the Emerald model at Plantation Bay.

3. Showcase Kitchen – Energy Star appliances by GE were selected for the kitchen of this ICI Homes’ showcase model.

4. Judith Sisler Johnston, president of Sisler Johnston Interior Design