By Natalie Buriy
November 29th
BURLINGTON, ON
Nowadays, a fairly large number of homeowners understand the impact of their living space on the environment. Because of this understanding, there is a certain ecological trend that is to create environmentally friendly outdoor spaces. Energy-saving exteriors, and active use of various environmentally friendly materials that help preserve the natural environment, these key things that are quite popular for outdoor design among numerous homeowners.
Eco-conscious homeowners are increasingly focusing on the successful implementation of various projects that reduce their carbon footprint while enhancing the beauty and functionality of their outdoor spaces. For example, permeable pavers provide groundwater recharge and prevent flooding and water pollution. It is important to know about the most interesting, modern outdoor design trends combined with environmental sustainability.
Ecologically friendly homes reduce their carbon footprint while enhancing the beauty and functionality of their outdoor spaces.
Trend #1. Incorporating Native Plants into Landscape Design
One of the most impressive changes that homeowners can make to their outdoor spaces is to incorporate native plants into their landscape. Native plants are better adapted to local climates and require less water, fewer pesticides, and less maintenance than non-native species.
Trend #2. Using Sustainable Materials
Landscape design, which involves the active use of non-plant elements such as walkways, fences, and walls, is an important part of exterior design. When choosing materials for their landscaping, eco-conscious homeowners are increasingly choosing options that have the least impact on the environment. Recycled materials such as wood, crushed stone, and recycled concrete are becoming increasingly popular as eco-friendly alternatives to traditional (non-eco-friendly) materials.
A rather interesting option for creating an environmentally sustainable outdoor environment is the use of permeable paving. Unlike traditional concrete or asphalt, permeable paving allows water to flow over the surface, reducing runoff and contributing to groundwater recharge. This is especially important in urban areas where impermeable surfaces can cause flooding and water pollution. Permeable paving helps reduce the urban heat island effect, a phenomenon that occurs due to the concentration of heat-absorbing materials such as concrete and asphalt.
Trend #3. Rainwater Harvesting and Irrigation Systems
Conserving water is a critical environmental consideration for homeowners looking to create sustainable outdoor spaces. One of the biggest trends in sustainable exterior design is the introduction of rainwater harvesting systems. These systems collect rainwater from your roof and store it in barrels or special tanks for later use for irrigation, reducing the need for municipal water systems. By using rainwater for gardening and landscaping, eco-conscious homeowners can significantly reduce their water use.
In addition to rainwater harvesting systems, smart irrigation systems are becoming an increasingly popular eco-friendly solution. These systems use special sensors to monitor soil moisture levels and adjust watering schedules accordingly. This ensures efficient water use, reduces losses, and prevents soil waterlogging.
Trend #4. Integrate Solar Panels into Your Exterior Design
Eco-conscious homeowners are incorporating solar panels into their exterior design to power their garden lights and other electrical systems. Modern solar lights are an environmentally conscious choice for lighting walkways, patios, and garden features. These lights are easy to install, require no wiring, and use less electricity, making them an energy-efficient alternative to traditional outdoor lighting. Solar energy can be used to power other objects, and solar panels are an effective, environmentally friendly, and affordable modern solution that makes it easy for homeowners to harness the sun’s energy to reduce their energy bills and reduce their impact on the environment.
Trend #5. Green roofs and vertical gardens
What are green roofs? They are a special type of roof covering that is planted with plants. They can be implemented on both flat and pitched roofs. They add a lot of beauty to the modern urban landscape and have many positive impacts on the environment. What are vertical gardens? They are special vertical plantings of plants on the walls of buildings. They have become very popular in recent years and create unique green spaces in modern cities:
- Green roofs covered with vegetation provide excellent thermal insulation for a house, reducing the need for heating and cooling;
- They help absorb rainwater, reducing runoff and providing an ecological habitat for birds and insects. Green roofs can be installed on both residential and commercial buildings, and they can be designed to support a wide range of plants, from herbs and shrubs to vegetables and flowers;
- In turn, vertical gardens can improve air quality, provide better thermal insulation, and help mitigate the effects of urban heat islands.
Trend #6. Edible Landscaping
Another growing trend in outdoor design is edible landscaping, which involves incorporating fruits, vegetables, and herbs into your landscaping. This trend aligns with the desire to create self-sufficient and productive outdoor spaces that promote both environmental and personal well-being. Edible landscaping reduces the need for store-bought produce, which can have a large carbon footprint due to transportation and packaging.
Trend #7. Outdoor Living Spaces with Eco-Friendly Furniture
Eco-conscious homeowners are embracing sustainable options for the materials used in their furniture. Recycled plastic, bamboo, and reclaimed wood are all popular choices for outdoor furniture and decor. They are environmentally friendly, durable, and weather-resistant.
Trend #8. Wildlife-Friendly Landscaping
As biodiversity becomes more important, many homeowners are taking proactive steps to create wildlife-friendly landscapes. This includes choosing plants that provide food and shelter for local wildlife, such as birds, bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. Other design elements that promote wildlife conservation include birdhouses, bat boxes, and water features like bird ponds. These elements not only enhance the beauty of the outdoor space but also contribute to the health of local ecosystems.
Trend #9. Energy-efficient outdoor heating and cooling
Energy-efficient outdoor heating and cooling systems, such as solar heaters or geothermal heating systems, are gaining popularity as sustainable alternatives to traditional outdoor heating methods. By integrating energy-efficient heating and cooling solutions into their outdoor spaces, homeowners can reduce their overall energy consumption and create a comfortable, sustainable environment year-round.
Trend #10. Eco-Friendly Soil Stabilization
Stabilizing the soil around a property.
Eco-friendly soil stabilization methods, such as the use of geogrids or natural materials like gravel, are becoming increasingly popular solutions due to their ability to increase soil stability while allowing natural water flow.
Summary
Eco-friendly exterior design is the realization of environmentally sustainable, functional spaces that are in harmony with their surroundings. By choosing environmentally sustainable materials, utilizing water-saving practices, and supporting local wildlife, homeowners can create outdoor spaces that reduce their negative impact on the environment. For example, a solution for ground stabilization prevents erosion, provides overall improvement of soil structure, prevents damage from heavy rainfall and foot traffic, and supports healthy plant growth by allowing water and nutrients to reach the soil more efficiently. All of the above trends in sustainable exterior design reflect a growing commitment to environmental protection and the desire to build a more sustainable, ecological future.
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