How Sustainability and Luxury Go Together
At first glance, reconciling sustainability and the affluent lifestyle, specifically as it relates to the purchase of high-end properties, may seem challenging. According to a recent Pew survey, 75 percent of all consumers are concerned about helping the environment as they go about their daily lives; however, only 20 percent admit to actually making an effort to protect the planet.
Luxury homes are discretionary, and what one consumer deems a luxury, others take for granted as an essential in their daily lives. Indulgence, by definition, is something you enjoy that may result in a negative consequence—which, in the world of luxury real estate, has historically included a lack of sustainability.
Fortunately, there have been significant changes over the last two decades to create opportunities that embrace sustainability without sacrificing the conveniences and benefits that luxury homes provide.
By nature, luxury real estate has always incorporated advances in comfort and convenience, dating back to such innovations as electric lights and indoor plumbing. Historically, these homes have also incorporated the newest advances in construction, and it is still true today as technological improvements continue to evolve in home building.
This is important because building and construction account for 38 percent of global carbon emissions—which is estimated to generate six hundred tons of waste each year, based on data from the United Nations. So how do we support sustainability while continuing the quest to lead a comfortably luxurious life?
Fortunately, there are many in the real estate industry now leading this charge. From the selection of building materials to the decision of where new properties are built, developers and home builders are stepping up. And many luxury homeowners are making an effort to reduce their daily carbon footprint and consumption of natural resources and energy.
This global phenomenon is very prevalent in the European Union, which was quick to incorporate advances in technology for heating and cooling homes, due in part to higher electric costs. The United States has caught up with new regulations for high-efficiency heating and cooling systems and LED lighting; there has also been an increased adoption of solar panels to supplement what luxury homes demand from the energy grid.
New homes are required to incorporate water-efficient appliances and plumbing fixtures. And due to innovations in the stylish design, operation, and comfort available with new plumbing fixtures and appliances, it makes sense to retrofit your home and begin a more sustainable lifestyle even if you live in an older or historically significant property (as allowable with the latter).
Vast gardens and lush lawns are a frequent mainstay of luxury properties and have been the subject of considerable research. We now have a better understanding of the wide variety of drought-tolerant flowering plants and shrubs available for beautiful landscaping that allow for a reduced reliance on water. These enhancements are not only for homes in areas prone to water shortages; we also have a new awareness of grasses and plants that are resistant to growth deterrents and don’t require repeated applications of chemicals to produce picture-perfect outdoor living.
Lastly, there is a wonderful trend toward repurposing and reusing all things luxury—and while the traditional use of antiques is no longer as popular, there is growing interest in vintage and midcentury furniture and decor. The number of estate-quality pieces that can be found in consignment stores and through online purveyors continues to increase, providing an opportunity to acquire one-of-a-kind case goods, unique pieces of furniture, and even vintage barware. Repurposing, consigning, or donating items that we no longer need is another approach to remaining eco-conscious.
These are just some of the ways those seeking a luxury lifestyle can do so without sacrificing sustainability.