FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Johannesburg, South Africa – February 21, 2025 – Home is where we live and work, rest and play. Yet our relationship with our living spaces has changed. Our homes have become nuanced, multifaceted places that reflect our values and adapt to our evolving needs. Join us as we discuss the latest home design trends and construction solutions.
Bringing nature indoors with biophilic design
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the concept of biophilic design — or bringing natural elements into built environments — has moved from the fringes to the mainstream. A study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health found that these design elements can reduce stress by up to 18% and increase creativity by 15%.
For this reason, large sliding glass doors, living walls, and the use of composite decking and cladding that mirror the look of wood or stone have become increasingly prevalent. These elements restore a sense of calm and inspire the connection to nature so many of us value.
Introducing smart technology
Technology is helping homeowners optimize energy use and operate more efficiently. Energy management systems, for instance, can adjust power consumption based on occupancy patterns and weather conditions. Smart lighting, meanwhile, can mimic natural daylight rhythms to support circadian health.
The idea is for these technologies to be well-integrated rather than intrusive. Home automation and intelligent construction materials, such as composite cladding and decorative architectural beams, further contribute to a smarter, more sustainable living experience.
Building with renewable materials
The World Green Building Council reports that green building practices can reduce a building’s operating costs by up to 37% and increase property values. This is one of the primary reasons behind the move towards recycled plastics and engineered composite products, which are more durable than timber yet offer the same warmth and aesthetic appeal.
With that, many homeowners are embracing renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and geothermal in their design and construction projects. Heat pumps, for example, lower greenhouse gas emissions by heating and cooling with up to one-third of the electricity of traditional equipment. The International Energy Agency (IEA) notes that globally, heat pumps have the potential to reduce CO2 emissions by over 500 million tons in 2030. Bamboo as a raw material, wastes less too with 98% of the plant being useable compared to just 13% refined timber from tree felling, and bamboo releases 35% more oxygen than hardwood trees.
So, as we look ahead, we have to ask: Will home design and construction continue to evolve? Will they become even more integrated with nature — more responsive to our needs and more conscious of their impact on the environment?
Here at Eva-Last, green building practices are a critical priority, and we continually design and develop solutions that make a difference. Explore our range of products and start your home design or construction project today.
About Eva-Last®
Eva-Last is a globally recognised and trusted brand that manufactures and distributes specialised bamboo composite building products. Together with a wide range of advanced decking, cladding, fencing, architectural beams, fasteners and flooring products, Eva-Last also offers specialised support systems and expert advice, ensuring each and every build is designed to last. Eva-Last composite products and complimentary systems can be found in over 30 countries globally and have been an imperative part of some of the world’s largest building projects. As a global leader in composite building technology, Eva-Last ensures product quality and customer satisfaction with class-leading warranties. For the latest news, please follow Eva-Last on Facebook (Eva-Last Global), Instagram (evalastglobal), X (EvaLastGlobal), LinkedIn (Eva-Last Global), TikTok (evalast_), Flickr (Eva-Last), and Pinterest (EvaLastDecking), or view the brand's YouTube channel (EvaLast Global) for product information and installation guidelines.
For more information, please visit www.eva-last.com or contact:
Nina Minne | Corporate Communications | Email: comms@eva-last.com | Mobile: +1 (945) 257 1854