We spend almost 90% of our lives indoors. It's crazy! 🤯 And although we love our home, sometimes we live with invisible "villains" (chemicals and volatile organic compounds) that can affect our well-being without us noticing.
Creating a home that truly hugs you is completely possible. If you want to make sure your house is your shelter, here is an action plan in 3 key steps:
STEP 1: START WITH THE "BLACKLIST" ☠️
A healthy design doesn't start with what you choose, but with what you discard. The first professional step is to know and avoid substances on the "alert lists" compiled by health and construction experts.
We are talking about compounds like formaldehyde, phthalates, isocyanates... Those weird names that are better kept away from your family.
✅ The golden rule: if a material contains high-risk substances, it simply shouldn't enter your home.
STEP 2: LOOK FOR THE "MAGIC" LABEL 🏷️✨
For a quick and super visual clue, look for the A+ label on paints, floors, panels, and varnishes.
It tells you if that product emits very few substances into the indoor air. The scale is simple: it goes from C (👎) to A+ (🏆). There is no doubt about which to pick!
✅ A visual shortcut: A+ is the green light for a much purer and healthier indoor air.
STEP 3: TRUST THE CHAMPIONS 🏅
For a guarantee of excellence, there are seals and certifications that analyze products comprehensively. They are the elite of sustainability and health. Remember their names!
- 🇩🇪 Der Blaue Engel (Blue Angel): The pioneer seal of maximum rigor.
- 🌿 GREENGUARD Gold: The guardian of air quality, especially in sensitive spaces.
- ♻️ Cradle to Cradle (C2C): For those looking for a positive impact on the planet.
- 🇪🇺 EU Ecolabel: The official ecological guarantee in Europe.
- 🌳 FSC® or PEFC™: Essential to ensure that wood is sustainable.
Navigating this universe of materials and seals can seem complex, but the reward is immense: a home where you can breathe deeply, feel safe, and ultimately, live better. ❤️
Now, if you are thinking of a renovation and want to apply all this philosophy to your home, at Summare Studio we will be happy to guide you every step of the way. Contact us and together we will design the home that truly cares for you.