Sustainability isn’t a trend.
A 2021 study by Simon-Kucher & Partners shows that sustainability is becoming increasingly important in purchasing decisions.
Younger consumers are actively taking steps toward being more sustainable. According to the survey, globally, 85% of those surveyed said they changed their shopping habits to be more sustainable. And 34% said they are willing to pay more for sustainable products and services.
The rising demand for sustainable products has shifted the focus of many industries, including the interior design sector. The main goal of interior design and sustainability is to create environmental awareness while reusing materials that might normally be used for a single purpose.
If you’re looking to refresh your home’s style while minimizing your impact on the planet, check out these eco-friendly ways to implement sustainability in interior design.
Go Antiquing
One of the easiest ways to be sustainable is by not buying new products. Antique furniture and décor give your interior design an elevated look without creating new waste. By buying antiques, you can find unique pieces with history and save them from the landfill. Also, many antique items have a longer life cycle than modern design pieces, so you can enjoy them for years to come.
Use Reclaimed Products
Reclaimed goods use leftover materials or products and repurpose them for the same or different use. For example, wood that once made up an old barn can be reclaimed and used to build the base for shelving and tables. Using reclaimed materials and products can give your home a rustic charm while using existing items, keeping materials out of the landfill and reducing the demand for new products and the waste created when they’re made.
Buy Recycled Products
While reclaimed and recycled may sound interchangeable, reclaimed goods aren’t altered from their original state. Recycled products are items made from used materials that have been processed or molded into a new item for a new purpose. Today, you can purchase recycled glass tile. Recycled wall panels and work surfaces offer a great eco-friendly alternative to tile. Outdated furniture, like sofas, can be reupholstered, and benches and cupboards can be refinished. A coat of paint might be all you need for an update.
Choose Sustainable Materials
When purchasing new products, make a difference by buying products made from sustainable materials. Bamboo has become a popular material for furniture and décor because it is a renewable material that doesn’t require much water, pesticides or labor to create compared to wood products. Other sustainable materials include jute, a natural plant fiber used for woven rugs and other home textiles, and cork, which is made by sustainably harvesting tree bark.
Your choices as a consumer matter and can make a positive impact on the environment. One way is to invest in the planet’s future by seeking out earth-friendly, recyclable-based designs for your home.