The goal of a New Year’s resolution, on its base level, is to make your life better. It’s no wonder that some of us dream bigger and endeavor to make the world a little better. In this very climate-focused time, who doesn’t want to reduce their footprint and do their part to preserve the environment?
Here are some ways you can keep your 2026 project a green one, with tips from Hillary Cohen of HCO Interiors in Basking Ridge (and make sure you check out her showroom featured in the newest issue of NJ HOME).
Opt for a smart thermostat
Yes, these gadgets are great because you can adjust your house’s temperature via app, but they can also make a big difference on how much energy you’re using. Smart thermostats can track the peak and low energy requirements in your home, and you can use that information to schedule heating and cooling for when you really need it, rather than keeping it constantly running.
In the short term, this can save you some serious money on your energy bill—and, in the long term, it can reduce your carbon footprint.
Go natural
An easy way to make a room feel new is to update curtains, drapes and other window treatments. Cohen’s suggestion: Skip the polyester. “My No. 1 rule when designing sustainably is to stick with natural materials whenever possible; nothing synthetic or overly chemically treated,” she says. “For fabrics, I gravitate toward organic cotton because it’s soft and breathable, and the organic certification ensures that it hasn’t been grown or finished with harsh fertilizers or processing agents.” Her go-to for drapes? “Classic linen is a favorite of mine,” she says. “It’s durable, ages gracefully and brings a relaxed elegance to a room.
Reach for recycled materials
No longer does “made from recycled materials” mean “DIY.” Not only do we want designs that mimic the feel of the natural world, we want materials that respect it. Think reclaimed wood, natural textures and organic options such as bamboo that invite you to touch.
Brands such as Porcelanosa and In Common With have announced lines and products that make use of recycled materials, and we expect more to follow.
Know the VOC
Volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, are hazardous air pollutants—these are what makes your eyes sting when you open a can of paint. They can also negatively affect groundwater, air quality and even the ozone layer. If you want to start the year with a fresh coat of paint, Farrow & Ball and Benjamin Moore offer good low-VOC options.
Thinking about wall coverings instead? “Wallpaper requires a bit more diligence,” says Cohen. “Look for low-VOC adhesives, because the glue can affect indoor air quality as much as the paper itself. I look for wallpapers made from natural fibers or paper-based substrates, rather than vinyl or PVC [polyvinyl chloride]. Durability matters. A ‘sustainable’ choice isn’t very sustainable if it needs to be replaced in two years.”
How are you going green in 2026? Tell us about it on Instagram @njhomemag.