Eco-Friendly Bamboo Décor

When it comes to décor, nothing beats the classic look of wood. Whether it’s a parquet floor or a wooden countertop, it’s one of those materials that never go out of style. Unfortunately, it’s not exactly the cheapest choice on the market, nor is it the most ecological. In a country where everyone’s growing environmentally conscious, you can get a lot of heat for owning some rare teak furniture.

Luckily, there are cheaper and more sustainable alternatives to wood. In recent years, bamboo has been gaining ground as an eco-friendly material, sturdy enough to build a house but plentiful enough to stay cheap. Bamboo is sustainable because it’s not really wood—it’s a type of grass. It can grow fully in about two weeks, so there’s no risk of it being endangered. If you want to keep that rustic wooden look, bamboo décor may be just what you’re looking for.

Still unconvinced? Here are some suggestions to help you out.

Bamboo flooring

Bamboo floors used to be associated with small Asian huts, but manufacturers have developed stronger builds to suit the modern Western home. Bamboo floors offer a distinctly tropical look, lighter than oak and paler than pine, which goes well with practically any theme. If you’re going for a wood parquet look, you’re in luck: bamboo flooring comes in all the same shades and patterns as parquet. Be sure to scout for good suppliers, as some provide better quality bamboo than others.

Bamboo dividers

Dividers are great for breaking up a large room, but they tend to look too heavy and distracting. Bamboo dividers are made lighter and smaller, so you can put them anywhere without worrying about proportion. Adjustable dividers are useful is you like to remodel every now and then. You can get a Japanese shoji-style ­divider for an Asian-inspired look, or a solid, polished one if you’re going for something classic. Many of them come with carvings and hand paintings, which can add interest to the room.

Bamboo mats

Instead of that plush fur rug, why not spare the animals and get a bamboo mat instead? Bamboo mats are surprisingly sturdy and can hold up even on wet floors. They don’t thin or wear out like fabric mats, so they can be used on doorsteps, too. The only thing you have to worry about is when it scratches against your floor. Avoid scratches by choosing a mat with cotton ties instead of plastic or nylon. The cords may wear off over time, but you can easily replace them. Look for a varnished or weather-coated mat for better wear.

Bamboo instruments

You can’t get more Asian than an authentic bamboo instrument. Flutes, lyres, drums, and even keyboards all come in bamboo models which are surprisingly functional. They come in a wide range of sizes, from small handheld pieces to organs as big as pianos. Even if you never play them, they still make excellent accents to an Asian-themed room. Authentic pieces can be expensive, but you can get them cheaper from garage sales, bazaars, and some secondhand shops.

Bamboo furniture

Bamboo makes excellent furniture because it’s got a great weight capacity, despite being so light. You can even jump on a well-made bamboo bed and not feel it budge! Most people prefer bamboo furniture because it is easily positioned and moved around the room—perfect for those who like to rearrange. There are also lots of styles available, from cozy wicker chairs to wall-to-wall benches. The only drawback is that you need to reapply polish every few months, especially if you plan on leaving them outdoors.