Save money with green renovations and creative decorating

The idea of doing home renovations in order to save money may seem like an oxymoron. However, that's exactly what green renovations are supposed to do. By purchasing energy-efficient appliances, windows, doors and more, your energy costs will decrease, and you can save significant amounts of money. Unfortunately, the initial cost of implementing these home improvements can be quite daunting, and many people don't have the extra funds in their budget.

However, thanks to the The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, 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 the door for people who want to go green but weren't sure how to afford it.

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

A few of the most popular green decorating techniques include:

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

* Adding an all-natural area rug made from hemp, wool or organic cotton. This is the less expensive alternative to complete carpeting, and there are a variety of beautiful options to enhance any room in your home.

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

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

If you have a passion for these kinds of home renovation and decorating projects, you may want to consider taking formal interior design training. The interior design industry offers a wide range of career possibilities, while developing a talent for it can also make for a great hobby. Green interior design and renovation is a hot button topic in today's society, and many programs offer interior design courses focused on going green.

No matter what your level of interest is, it's important to be aware of the environmental impact your actions have. Green renovations to your home are a great way to reduce your impact, and as you can see, with a little creativity and some great stimulus bill 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 developing marketable knowledge and career-relevant skills with an industry-current interior design degree program. (IADT - Sacramento does not guarantee employment or salary.)

Courtesy of ARAcontent