You can call it sustainability, eco-friendliness or just plain green.  No matter what name you use, the biggest trend in home design is using materials and techniques that are easy on the Earth.  Most design trends are all flash and no substance and they usually don’t last long.  But sales in The Hills Bedminster NJ will be affected by green design for years to come.  If you are building a home or renovating one, keep these ideas in mind to protect your resale value.

Energy Efficiency
Conserving energy and reducing its use are great ways to go green.  They also save money.  One way to conserve energy is to find energy efficient materials and appliances.  Look for the Energy Star rating on appliances, electronics, insulation and even doors and windows.  Energy ratings are like the MPG ratings on a car.  They tell you approximately what to expect from average use.  Choose well-rated appliances that will give you the best performance while using the least amount of power.  Try compact florescent bulbs to conserve energy and reduce your usage with a programmable thermostat.

Water Conservation
Conserving water is important for the plant’s future as well as your present finances.  You can conserve water both inside and out.  Indoors, you can purchase low flow toilets and shower heads to reduce your environmental impact.  Tankless water heaters reduce both your water and energy usage.  Outside, choose plants and grasses that don’t have high water requirements.  Use mulch in planting beds to retain moisture.

Sustainable Materials
When following the green trend, homes in The Hills Bedminster NJ should be constructed with sustainable materials.  Plenty of building materials are now made either entirely of recycled materials or at least in part.  Look for ways to incorporate recycled brick, decking and trim.  Ask your contractor about recyclable building materials and how to incorporate them into your construction or remodeling job.  You can also reduce the amount of toxins in your home environment with low VOC paints.

Recycled Finishes
Your home’s fine finishes can also be made of recycled materials to minimize your carbon footprint.  Countertops made of recycled stone are both beautiful and eco-smart.  Synthetic stone looks just as good are equally durable, but they don’t have to be mined from the Earth.  Bamboo makes a beautiful floor and is very sustainable.

Think about incorporating the hot new trend in your home in The Hills.  When you resell, you’ll be glad you did.