Going Green with Art Ideas

Jun 24, 2012 by Laura Greb

Posted under: blog

Recycled mirror made from cans.

As more and more people are considering our environmental behaviors and trying to make a little positive difference when it comes to recycling, many are also considering recycled materials when it comes to redecorating and remodeling a home.

A friend of mine told me about remodeling her bathroom with recycled glass and using it as her counter top – I thought she was joking. After thinking more about our discussion, I was interested to see what others are doing to add some “green” into their own personal space. Here are a few tips and suggestions to help get you started if you’re looking into redecorating and/or remodeling.

Furniture Art

Furniture Art is remarkably unique and eye-catching. Many modern and contemporary recycled furniture designs made out of reclaimed and recycled materials such as wood, paper or metal are becoming increasingly popular.

For example artists Dave Hill and Donovan Fell created desks and office furniture out of old airplane parts as their passion for flying inspired them to turn their dreams of flying into a reality.

How can you add some “green” flare to your décor? Simple! Instead of throwing away an old chipping wood dresser or scratched glass table, consider restoring the materials. Home Depot often host free classes to help you get started with the basics. Restoring furniture is a new hobby of mine and many of my own family members are into it as well.

Going Green Lamps

Save the Light!

Energy is constantly on our minds so why not save it? Creating a fun lamp out of empty spray paint cans is a great project for anyone – regardless of their age. Or, how about using empty glass bottles and place them on a sturdy chandelier like the photo to the left.

Obviously building your work lamp isn’t a project for everyone BUT if you’re into a green lifestyle, taking care of your body and watching what you eat, then this project might be right up your alley. Instead of building a lamp why not switch out light bulbs to conserve energy instead? Check out a light bulb I prefer called the EcoSmart LED A19. You can buy this at Home Depot for about $20 or search online for better rate.

Reuse Paper

Many of us have a home office or work from home and dedicate half of the dining room table to work related issues. If you’re someone that does any kind of work from home that involves printing, start reusing your paper!

Quick and easy ways to recycle is to print on both sides, allow your child to color on it when wanting something to do OR set scraps aside and use it for note taking, grocery lists or brain storming sessions. Being able to use paper multiple times goes a long way.

Recycled Accessory Art Ideas

Accessory Art

Let’s face it, we all LOVE art in our house from hanging pictures on the wall to displaying our basket of fruit. Next time you “spring clean” your house, instead of tossing out unused glass items like a vase, use if for decoration!

For example, vases or any kind of decorative glass can be used to display beautiful bath soap beads or even hold popperie. Accessory art around the house might also be as simple as unhooking a mirror and standing it against the wall to add a different visual perspective.

And Remember…

A little goes a long way. If you’re into supporting your local community, make sure to check out which restaurants use food derived less than 100 miles away. Also make sure to check out any home remodeling and/or decorating tips seen at DFD House Plans.

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