Today, we live in a society that’s become more aware of our impact on the environment. Many architects and interior designers in Singapore are also increasingly conscious of the effect that our choice of construction materials has.
Our bathrooms are no exception—what we choose for our flooring, countertops, and walls matters too. So how do we create a more sustainable space in our next toilet renovation?
Let’s look at some building materials to consider for our bathroom.
Why Have an Eco-Friendly Bathroom?
Building an eco-friendly bathroom minimises the waste you produce. You also don’t have to rely as much on harvesting and processing more raw materials from the planet, thus reducing your carbon footprint.
You can also conserve other natural resources such as water and energy. This in turn reduces your utility bills since your home uses up less.
What Sustainable Materials Can You Use for Your Bathroom?
Choosing Your Flooring and Wall Options
When it comes to walls and flooring, you’ll want to choose a material that remains durable for a long time.
Bamboo is a great, budget-friendly choice for wood flooring and walls. It is water resistant and tougher than hardwood but more affordable. Best of all, bamboo is a renewable resource that replenishes quickly. However, make sure to get your bamboo from a supplier with ethical sources—those who also plant bamboo instead of just cutting everything down.
Terrazzo is also an increasingly popular choice for bathroom floors and walls. This composite is made of salvaged marble, granite, glass, and other fragments left over from other projects.
Consider Recycled Tiles
Well-made tiles are easy to maintain and highly durable. If cared for properly, they could last decades, making them an excellent sustainable material. But you can choose tiles that are even more eco-friendly, such as those made from recycled plastic.
Your interior designer here in Singapore can also help you search for other sustainable tile choices, such as terrazzo tiles.
Opt for Sustainable Countertops and Cabinets
Your bathroom countertops also contribute to making the space more eco-friendly. Try to search for countertops made from recycled materials.
One countertop material that’s become a favourite among homeowners with a decent budget is Silestone. Silestone is mostly made from materials such as recycled mirror glass, porcelain, and earthenware.
If you’d like a bathroom with a rustic touch, consider using reclaimed wood for cabinets. By using good-quality wood from previous structures, you help reduce the trees that need to be cut for construction and renovation projects.
Your Bathroom Fixtures Matter Too
The materials we use for our floors, countertops, and walls aren’t the only aspects that help make our bathrooms more eco-friendly. As we already mentioned, a sustainable bathroom also helps us save money on utility bills. One way to do that is to install fixtures that conserve water and energy.
Interior designers can help your Singapore home be more efficient by installing low-flow faucets, showerheads, and dual-flush toilets in your bathroom. These use less water while still letting us wash and flush.
Meanwhile, they can maximise your energy savings by installing LED bulbs, which use less energy than conventional incandescent and fluorescent bulbs. Designers can also find ways to increase the room’s natural lighting so you use less energy during the daytime.
Achieve an Eco-Friendly Bathroom With an Interior Designer
A bathroom that reduces our harmful environmental impact is always worth investing in. The upfront cost may seem higher when we use more sustainable materials, but we end up saving more money and resources in the long run.
If you plan to renovate your bathroom soon, consult with an experienced interior designer who specialises in Singapore homes. They can help you make your spaces stylish but environmentally sound.
