Designing for the Desert: Sustainable Interiors That Work in Phoenix
Phoenix presents unique environmental challenges, from extreme heat to long-term drought conditions. But these realities also present an opportunity: to design smarter. Sustainable interior design in Arizona requires careful consideration of materials, climate, and energy use—without compromising on style or function.
Passive Cooling and Energy Efficiency
A recent personal upgrade in my home included automated woven wood roller shades. Programmed to adjust with the sun’s path, they have made a measurable difference in both lighting quality and temperature control.
Check out my Select Blinds automatic roller shades here, as pictured during our 2024 holiday photoshoot.
Photo credit: Heather Kirchhofer, Agnes Art & Photo
Other passive design strategies include:
Breeze block walls and pergolas to shade windows and doors
Strategic placement of drought-tolerant trees
Smart thermostats and solar-powered outdoor lighting
High-performance insulation and window glazing
These measures contribute significantly to reduced energy consumption, particularly in desert climates.
Thoughtful Material Selection
Arizona homeowners benefit from access to locally produced materials, such as handmade tile and ceramics from nearby regions in Mexico. We aim to source regionally whenever possible, minimizing transportation emissions and ensuring compatibility with local climate conditions.
Preferred materials include:
Low-VOC paints and finishes
Durable, breathable natural fibers
Recycled and reclaimed materials
Sustainable Outdoor Living
Designing with Nature: Why We Love Our Palo Verde Shade Trees
Our downtown Phoenix office is shaded each spring by these gorgeous palo verde trees—native, drought-tolerant, and perfectly adapted to thrive through monsoon season. They don’t just bring beauty—they reduce heat, save energy, and remind us why designing with nature always wins.
A sustainable yard in Phoenix starts with accepting the environment as it is. We encourage:
Replacing traditional lawns with native and drought-resistant plants
Using gravel or decomposed granite as ground cover
Adding shading structures to reduce pool evaporation
Eliminating non-essential water features like fountains
These choices significantly reduce water waste and maintenance.
Smart Design for Commercial Spaces
Eco-conscious design is increasingly important in commercial environments. Whether designing for offices, hospitality, or retail, sustainable solutions yield:
Lower energy and water bills
Improved air quality and occupant wellness
Increased customer and employee satisfaction
Choosing pre-owned furniture, implementing efficient layouts, and specifying eco-friendly materials can transform commercial interiors into high-performing, low-impact environments.
Practical Sustainability for Everyday Living
Clients looking to begin their sustainability journey can start with simple actions:
Declutter and prioritize quality over quantity
Focus on longevity in materials and furnishings
Opt out of the constant "upgrade" mindset
Sustainable living means making thoughtful, value-aligned choices that serve your space long-term.
Local Resources for Arizona Homeowners
Phoenix-area residents have access to a number of sustainability incentives:
Trees Matter
This Phoenix-based nonprofit is dedicated to inspiring and promoting an increased tree canopy in the Valley. They focus on education, community tree plantings, and advocating for sustainable urban forestry—making our city cooler, greener, and more resilient. We love their mission and the impact they’re making across Arizona.
Finally, advocating for responsible development and water use at the local level is a vital part of sustainable living in the desert.
