When we think of a green building, we often focus on the design and construction of the building, but the spaces where we spend our time - the interiors - have a direct impact on our health, productivity, and on the planet. 

The Green Building Council South Africa (GBCSA) is South Africa’s leading authority on sustainability in the built environment, advocating for all buildings and precincts to be designed, built, and operated in an environmentally sustainable manner. They facilitate a range of certification processes using tools such as Net Zero, EDGE and Green Star, and within the Green Star set of tools is the Interiors tool. Designed specifically for tenant fit-outs, rewarding spaces that are healthy, productive, and have a reduced environmental footprint, the tool is ideal for office, hospitality, education, retail, and large volume projects such as branch roll-outs.  

Whether it is for a brand-new office interior or to breathe fresh life into an existing space through a refurbishment, pursuing a green certification is a powerful investment. 

Georgina Smit, CEO Designate at GBCSA, says: “Green Star Interiors provides a credible pathway for project teams to deliver healthier, lower-waste and lower-carbon fitouts. Having used this tool as a consultant before I joined GBCSA, I saw first-hand how it prioritised the value of green to serve building occupants. When used effectively, the tool supports the design and construction of an interior fitout with excellent sustainability principles.”

Annelide Sherratt, Director of Sustainability at Marc Sherratt Sustainability Architects (MSSA), explains that a green interior isn't just about ‘being green’; it’s about the people inside: “In typical business operations, staff salaries make up the most significant portion of costs - often as much as 90%. In comparison, rental and energy costs account for approximately 9% and 1%, respectively. A well-designed and thoughtfully fitted-out interior space - one that is comfortable, safe, and supports productivity - can therefore deliver great value. If a 10% improvement is achieved in productivity, you make a valuable return.”

A core focus of a green interior fit out is creating spaces that support health and wellbeing, which might include a focus on:

• Air Quality: Reducing exposure to pollutants by using low-emission paints, carpets, and adhesives.

• Comfort: Ensuring the space is a comfortable temperature and well-lit, with access to daylight and quality views.

• Wellness: Incorporating elements such as indoor plants to enhance the interior environment.

Green interiors also tackle resource consumption. Certification requires water-efficient fittings like low-flow taps and dual-flush toilets, and energy-efficient systems and equipment. It also encourages local sourcing, requiring that a significant portion of materials be manufactured or extracted within South Africa to support the local economy and reduce transport emissions.