Totally natural

The preference of many homeowners for environmentally friendly building products is driven by a combination of concern for the natural environment and for their personal health and wellbeing.

In the home featured here, the owner's brief to his architect was for the interior surfaces to have an all-natural finish that was as green and environmentally friendly as possible. American Clay fitted this criteria.

Clay plasters have been used for thousands of years, in applications from ancient Japanese temples and Roman villas to ultra-modern beach houses such as this. American Clay is an award-winning range developed as an alternative to wallpapers, paint and acrylic-based plasters that create a skin over the interior of a building, preventing it from breathing.

American Clay breathes naturally, helping control humidity in the home by reducing moisture in the air, so walls are warm in winter and cool in summer. It's durable, nontoxic, fire and mould resistant, VOC free, does not fade and has sound and odour absorbing qualities. As well as being produced from all natural substances, it's made from 70% recycled materials.

The standard range of 43 colours offers plenty of choice for your interior design, or, a custom colour service is available. American Clay comes in four finishes: Loma, with a matte surface; Porcelina, which is smooth and mimics marble; Marittimo, with a soft, speckled sheen, or the rugged, earthy look of Enjarre.

For more information, contact Richard Gooch at Earth Design, phone (07) 575 6492 or 027 572 3984. Website: www.earthdesign.net.nz.

Story by: Trendsideas