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Good design isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about creating a healthier, more comfortable living space.
Open layouts create a seamless flow and make homes feel more airy.
Indoor air pollution is an invisible but serious concern that can impact our health and well-being. While air purifiers and low-VOC paints help, smarter design choices can naturally improve air quality without relying on technology alone. Interior designers weigh in on sustainable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing solutions to combat indoor pollution.
Air-Cleaning Walls and Natural Plasters
Rimpy Pilaania, interior designer, emphasizes the role of walls in air purification. “Walls take up most of our indoor space, and now, special wall coatings available in India can break down pollutants when exposed to light,” explains Pilaania. This simple innovation enhances air quality without bulky gadgets. She also highlights the benefits of clay and lime plasters over conventional wall paints. “Regular wall plasters trap moisture and can lead to mold. Clay or lime plasters, however, help absorb toxins and regulate humidity while giving walls an earthy, elegant look.”
Sustainable Materials and Pollution-Repelling Surfaces
Sakshi Aneja, founder, Decoreve, advocates using bamboo and cork in interiors. “Bamboo is a fantastic thermal insulator and a sustainable alternative for ceilings, flooring, and wardrobe shutters. Cork is another trending material that works beautifully for furniture and wall paneling while reducing the need for toxic wood finishes.” She also recommends breathable wallpapers that combat indoor pollution and antimicrobial fabrics for upholstery and carpets to keep bacteria at bay.
Thoughtful Ventilation and Insulation
Anjum Jung, principal architect, believes that integrating smart ventilation systems is crucial for indoor air quality. “Adding windows in every room ensures proper airflow, while a hybrid approach that combines natural ventilation with mechanical solutions like HVAC filters enhances air exchange,” she notes. Anjum also emphasizes the importance of insulation: “Proper insulation helps regulate indoor temperatures, reducing reliance on air conditioners and heaters, thereby lowering energy consumption and pollution.”
Flooring, Fabrics, and Biophilic Design
Tushar Joshi, interior designer, focuses on flooring and fabrics to minimize indoor pollutants. “Swap out carpets that trap dust and allergens for sustainable options like reclaimed wood, cork, or bamboo flooring. For upholstery and curtains, organic cotton and linen are healthier choices, as they reduce exposure to synthetic chemicals.” He also suggests incorporating biophilic elements, “Green walls and vertical gardens not only purify the air but also create a calming, refreshing atmosphere.”
Smart Air Purification and Cleaning Methods
According to Aneja, technology-driven solutions can complement sustainable design. “Air purifiers with HEPA and activated carbon filters effectively remove volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and odors. Using a vacuum cleaner with HEPA filters regularly helps keep surfaces free from dust and allergens.” She also suggests using water-based, solvent-free paints and opting for acrylic or epoxy coatings that promote a healthier indoor environment.
Ceilings and Furniture Choices
Ceilings can also contribute to better air quality. Pilaania adds that “modern ceiling panels made from special minerals help absorb airborne pollutants and reduce noise, making them perfect for urban homes.” Meanwhile, Jung points out the benefits of reclaimed wood and bamboo furniture, “These choices bring warmth and sustainability to interiors while reducing the need for freshly harvested timber.”
Balconies as Sustainable Extensions
Jung envisions balconies as sustainable havens. “Balconies should not just be outdoor extensions; they can be designed as air-purifying retreats with bamboo furniture, macramé décor, and lush greenery. Plants like pothos and ferns are natural air filters that elevate the aesthetic and functionality of these spaces.”
The Bigger Picture: Healthy, Sustainable Homes
Creating healthy indoor spaces is about more than aesthetics—it’s about sustainability and well-being. Whether through natural materials, better ventilation, or smart technology, conscious design choices can make homes cleaner, greener, and more comfortable. As Pilaania puts it, “Good design isn’t just about how a space looks—it’s about how it makes you feel, breathe, and live.”
