Smaller Home, Smaller Impact
Downsizing your home can be a smart move for a number of reasons. For empty nesters, there’s simply no need to expend the energy and money on the upkeep of a large house. For those who reside in an area where the cost of living is high, it might simply makes sense from a financial standpoint. In either case, downsizing is also a great way to reduce your carbon footprint and live a more sustainable lifestyle.
Design by TMS Architects
On the extreme end of the downsizing spectrum, you have Tiny Houses, which are usually between 100-400 sq ft. Though the financial and energy savings associated with tiny house are significant, living in that small of a space may not be a realistic for everyone. Thankfully, you don’t have to go full tiny house to reduce your environmental impact when downsizing. Here are a few benefits…
Reclaimed Wood Shed
Reduced Materials, Smaller Carbon Footprint
A new home starts with all kinds of building materials, though many of us don’t consider what it takes to get it all on site. Large quantities of concrete for a foundation, for instance, requires mining, production, and heavy-duty transportation. All of that can add up quickly, especially if the home-in-progress is large! Building a smaller home is an almost effortless way to reduce your overall environmental impact. Additionally, the use of local and recycled building materials for your new home can help you cut back even more.
Home with Solar Panels, Designed by TMS Architects
Staying Warm & Staying Cool
This almost goes without saying, but by downsizing you’re automatically cutting down on the energy it takes to heat and cool down your home. Add features like solar panels and energy efficient windows to the mix, and that scales your energy use down even more. It’s good for the environment and your wallet.
Out With The Old…
Downsizing forces you to take a good, hard look at all of the stuff you’ve accumulated over the years and decide what should stay and what can go. In all likelihood, this means finding a home for the furniture, clothing, childrens’ toys, and other knick knacks that are perfectly usable, but simply won’t fit for your new smaller space. But there’s no need for all of this stuff to be thrown away and wasted. Sentimental items can be repurposed by family members or close friends, and much of the rest can be donated to those in need or recycled.
Design by TMS Architects
…And In With The New
If you’re downsizing from a home that your family has lived in for decades, chances are your appliances could use an upgrade. Kitchen and home appliances are getting increasingly more efficient, so consider incorporating brand new appliances into your brand new home. An investment in current, energy efficient appliances will pay off for years to come.
If you’re considering a downsize, or would simply like your home to be greener, sustainable design and renovation is one of our specialties. Give us a call at 603.436.4274 or reach out via email to get the process started.
