Bamboo is a fast-growing plant that is valued around the world not only for its beauty but also for its economic and environmental benefits. The past few years have seen designers discovering more and more ways to utilize this versatile and naturally sustainable material to create attractive home décor. In its basic pole form or as a processed material, bamboo can shine in so many settings, from island tropical to a chic contemporary motif. Update your home design and reduce your carbon footprint in style with these innovative ideas on how to use bamboo in your personal space.

1. Bamboo shades and curtains

Bamboo adds an organic touch to windows and glass doors. There are many types of window coverings made from bamboo. Bamboo Roman-styled shades are an inexpensive and practical addition to any room. These drapes add texture and style, and work just as well in dressy spaces as in casual ones. Shades or matchstick blinds made with unbleached bamboo exhibit hints of natural green and wood tones, which balance beautifully with the warm look of hardwood floors.

Textiles woven from bamboo fibers are light, soft, and durable. Also, bamboo fabric has a number of great qualities that make it an excellent choice for eco-conscious homeowners. Since bamboo grows very quickly without the need for pesticides or other chemicals, organic bamboo curtains are suitable for homes with young children and ideal for those with asthma, allergies, and respiratory ailments. Their insulating properties also save energy by keeping rooms comfortable during warm or cold weather.

2. Bamboo light fixtures

Bamboo lends itself well to a variety of light fixtures. Sturdy yet flexible, bamboo was used to create the lampshade of this contemporary pendant. The bands of thin bamboo veneer are translucent and diffuse light into a rich caramel-colored glow. The shade also adds warmth without the glare of daylight of modern LED bulbs, making it perfect for fall. If you’re craving for some texture, the natural lines and grain of bamboo can provide just that as well.

In the meantime, these geometric pendants from David Trubridge add drama to even the simplest of spaces. Made of bamboo plywood, these spherical fixtures give contemporary and transitional homes a comfortable, organic feel. In the evening, switch on this simple lamp and watch it cast amazing honeycomb shadows all over the room.

3. Bamboo wallpaper

Let your walls express your love for nature with wallpaper made of bamboo. Not to be mistaken with bamboo printed wall covering, this type of wallpaper is handcrafted with strung and woven dried bamboo materials. With a slew of patterns and colors, bamboo wallpaper gives kitchens, bedrooms, and bathrooms great appeal.

Bamboo wallpaper features raised textures and natural variations that impart character and a sense of calmness. If you’re already missing summer, use horizontal-oriented bamboo wallpaper for a relaxing, beach house feel.

Bamboo wall panels are a new type of wall treatment that projects the appearance of custom trim woodwork. Manufactured by Stikwood, these wall panels are made of real bamboo and stick easily to surfaces with their adhesive strips on the back. The resulting look is clean and fresh, ideal for modern homes with modest budgets.

4. Bamboo linens and throws

Since bamboo is known for its sturdiness and resilience, it’s amazing to discover how silky and smooth bamboo fabric can be. Its softness, absorbency, and antibacterial properties make it a comfortable material for towels, robes, rugs, and clothing. Bed sheets made from bamboo viscose are light and airy, and have a cashmere-like feel. Bamboo linens have a natural sheen and act as a great insulator to keep you cool in hot weather and warm in cold conditions.

Available in a wide range of colors, bamboo throws are a great way to stay nice and cozy during cool autumn evenings. Placing a throw on a comfy chair or chaise adds an instant pop of color or some contrast.

To care for bamboo fabric, wash it in cool water, and allow it to air dry since it loses strength and could stretch when wet.

5. Bamboo rugs and mats

The shag rug has come back in a big, stylish way, popping up in contemporary homes as well as traditional ones. Deep pile shag rugs with bamboo fiber are softer than their 1970’s synthetic counterparts. If you want a more luxuriant look in your room, add a white shag rug. It provides wonderful texture and helps turn a bedroom into an inviting, tranquil retreat.

Beautiful, adaptable, and easily renewable, bamboo is so much more than a panda’s favorite food. If you’re looking for ways to be more eco-friendly or if you just want to update your décor, incorporating bamboo into your home design is a great way to go.

Jennifer Lutz blogs about Home Décor and related subjects for www.christmastreemarket.com. Jen is the guiding force behind the Home Décor 101 series on their blog, which can be found at http://blog.christmastreemarket.com/tag/home-decor-101/.