SUSTAINABLE STYLE: HOW TO EMBRACE ENVIRONMENTALLY RESPONSIBLE LIVING
Interior design is not a fashion trend. The layout and style of your home impact how you live, socialise, work and relax, now and in the future. So, when working on a project, I encourage conscious choices that can stand the test of time. When interior design is based on sustainable style, we start to embrace environmentally responsible living.
Sustainable Interior Design
2025 is the year when house builders will have to conform to the Future Homes Standard*. This promotes energy efficiency, renewables and low-carbon heating systems to lower utility bills and reduce environmental impact. In addition, there are moves to encourage the retrofit of energy-efficient systems and features in older homes.
In this blog, I want to explore how sustainable interior design can build on these foundations to promote greener living.
Working with Nature in Home Interiors
Let’s start by letting nature shine! For every interiors project, take note of the natural sources of light and warmth from the sun. Consider natural ventilation and the views from a window. When we make the most of these features, we can use less energy for lighting, heating and cooling our rooms.
Another aspect of nature in the home is the materials we choose for furniture and fittings. Biophilic interior design centres on incorporating responsibly sourced timber, cotton, linen, cork, bamboo, stone and other natural materials. These add a tactile quality and character to any home. What’s more, a connection with natural materials is proven to enhance our well-being. It’s one step in helping us feel more relaxed and comfortable at home.
Reclaimed, Repurposed & Recycled
When you redesign a room, I urge you to resist the instinct to buy everything new. The environmental impact is greatly reduced if you look for preloved items. This could include furniture from other rooms in your home, along with reclamation yards and second-hand shops. You may need to sand and oil, prime and paint or get the tools out, but it’s a great feeling to give a piece a new lease of life.
When you buy new, the sustainable option is to find British or local makers. This is far better than shipping goods from the other side of the world. Good craftsmanship will cost more, yet when you select quality items that are built to last, you get the best value.
You can also keep an eye out for items made from recycled materials. An example is wonderfully soft rugs, which are made from 100% recycled plastic. In addition to looking great and feeling cosy, these rugs are machine washable and quick drying, so ideal for hallways, living rooms and even outside dining areas. Weavers Green has a range of styles.
Eco-friendly Painting & Decorating
Did you know that there are eco-friendly paints and wallpaper pastes? These are low VOC or solvent-free, and water-based to eliminate or greatly reduce chemicals. Brands that specialise in eco-friendly decorating, sustainable processes and recyclable packaging include Edward Bulmer and Fenwick & Tilbrook.
Using solvent-free and low VOC options reduces pollutants in the home and also minimises the impact when leftovers are disposed of. If you’ve read previous blogs, you’ll know I’m an advocate for further enhancing air quality with houseplants!
Support Sustainable Brands
Another way to make informed, eco-conscious choices is to support brands that prioritise sustainability—not just in their materials, but in their values, supply chains and long-term impact.
Companies like House of Hackney are B Corp certified, committed to producing high-quality items in a way that’s ethical, transparent and environmentally responsible. Their bold prints and textiles are designed with purpose and made to last.
Weaver Green is another standout, creating beautiful rugs and blankets entirely from recycled plastic—combining sustainability with style.
Similarly, Plain English, if your budget allows, promotes the philosophy of “Buy Once, Buy Well”—a refreshing contrast to the fast interiors market.
For bedroom essentials, Naturalmat produces mattresses, beds, pillows and duvets using organic and natural materials. They go further by offering end-of-life recycling, refurbishment or donation services for their products—ensuring nothing goes to waste.
By supporting these thoughtful brands, you’re not just investing in your home—you’re investing in a better way of living.
Ways to Embrace Environmentally Responsible Living
As consumers, we are favouring sustainable brands, locally produced goods and recyclable materials. Let’s carry this approach into our home design and interior fittings.
Have I encouraged you to embrace environmentally responsible living? If you are unsure where to start, I invite you to contact me. An hour of my interior design advice will help get you started. Equally, I can create a room or a full home design.
*https://commonslibrary.parliament.uk/research-briefings/cdp-2024-0118/