The idea of doing home renovations in order to save money mayseem like an oxymoron. However, that’s exactly what greenrenovations are supposed to do. By purchasing energy-efficientappliances, windows, doors and more, your energy costs willdecrease, and you can save significant amounts of money.Unfortunately, the initial cost of implementing these homeimprovements can be quite daunting, and many people don’t have theextra funds in their budget.

However, thanks to the The American Recovery and ReinvestmentAct, homeowners can earn a tax credit for 30 percent – or up to$1,500 – off the purchase of energy-efficient appliances, windows,water heaters, doors and more. This stimulus bill has opened thedoor for people who want to go green but weren’t sure how to affordit.

In addition to buying more environmentally friendly appliances,many people also want to find sustainable ways to improve theirhome’s look without spending a bundle. Thankfully, there are also avariety of inexpensive green interior design techniques you caneasily implement into your home’s decor.

A few of the most popular green decorating techniquesinclude:

* Painting your walls a new color using one of the many brandsof low VOC (volatile organic compounds) paint.

* Adding an all-natural area rug made from hemp, wool or organiccotton. This is the less expensive alternative to completecarpeting, and there are a variety of beautiful options to enhanceany room in your home.

* Rearranging your existing furniture to let the most light intoevery room. It’s amazing what moving furniture around can do tomake a room seem bigger, airier, and more inviting.

* Re-upholstering the furniture you already have. You don’t haveto buy new furniture to change the look of a room. Get creative andmake new slipcovers for your most comfortable chair or favorite setof throw pillows.

If you have a passion for these kinds of home renovation anddecorating projects, you may want to consider taking formalinterior design training. The interior design industry offers awide range of career possibilities, while developing a talent forit can also make for a great hobby. Green interior design andrenovation is a hot button topic in today’s society, and manyprograms offer interiordesign courses focused on going green.

No matter what your level of interest is, it’s important to beaware of the environmental impact your actions have. Greenrenovations to your home are a great way to reduce your impact, andas you can see, with a little creativity and some great stimulusbill timing, you too can afford to go green.

Information in this article was provided by IADT – Sacramento.Contact IADT – Sacramento today if you’re interested in developingmarketable knowledge and career-relevant skills with anindustry-current interior design degreeprogram. (IADT – Sacramento does not guarantee employment orsalary.)

Courtesy of ARAcontent