Sip, Lounge, Relax: Tess and Luke Reveal How To Design Your Perfect Outdoor Retreat
In this enlightening conversation, Connie Cao shares invaluable insights into incorporating sustainability principles into home design and daily practices. From selecting timeless pieces to cultivating permaculture-inspired gardens, discover practical tips and inspiring stories that illuminate the path toward a more eco-friendly lifestyle.
How do you incorporate sustainability principles into your home design and decoration?
When putting together a space, I like to look for pieces that are timeless and well-made, and always think about how this item will be able to fit into our lifestyle and home in the long run before making a conscious decision to add it to our home. By incorporating such pieces, I know that they will last the distance and will be cherished for years to come.
Can you share some tips for creating a self-sufficient and sustainable home environment, especially for first-time homeowners?
One of the easiest ways to look for ways to be more sustainable is to look at your rubbish bin and how much waste is being produced in the household. Things like food waste can be composted within the property, other items like soft plastic (as hard as it is in this soft-plastic filled world), can be reduced by replacing with package-free items. There’s no need to aim for perfection, but little steps and habits daily. Many people making a small difference means a big difference overall!
Could you describe your approach to creating a permaculture-inspired food garden oasis, and how it enhances your home environment?
In the garden, I’ve planted a food and flower garden filled with all the things we use in the kitchen. I think incorporating nature and greenery outdoors can really help improve the indoor environment as whenever we look out the window, we see greenery which brings a sense of peace and calm. As a bonus, everything planted has a purpose - it’s either edible or brings joy (flowers!).
What advice would you give to individuals looking to embark on a journey towards a more sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle through their home design and daily practices?
I think it’s all about making conscious decisions and choosing items intentionally that fit into your daily lifestyle. When bringing something in, always think about its long term life cycle. I also look for items made from more sustainable materials, especially natural or recycled materials.
How are you enjoying your Kave Home Outdoor Lounge space?
It is really a beautiful and timeless design that’s made to last, from FSC certified solid acacia wood. We have it in an undercover outdoor area and love how it is easy to clean and look after with a wipe down. It’s the perfect spot for a lazy lie down outdoors and something we’ll be enjoying for years to come.
From thoughtful furniture selection to embracing permaculture principles in gardening, Connie Cao exemplifies the harmonious integration of sustainability into everyday living. Their experiences serve as a guiding light for individuals seeking to embark on their own path toward a greener, more eco-conscious lifestyle.
1 May 2024, 10 a.m.