In conversation with...

Sarah Davenport , Founder of sustainable interiors brand, That Rebel House , that celebrates unique, bold and colour-filled homes.

SKQ: Where should people start if they’re looking to decorate in a more environmentally friendly way?

Sarah Davenport (SD): An easy change to make would be to commit to only buying plastic free paint. This decision is made so much easier when there are amazing companies, such as Edward Bulmer Paint, who are pioneers of plant-based paints and have a sensational colour range to choose from. It also makes it much easier to make that tricky wall colour choice... When you commit to only purchasing paint from those that know it’s time to make the change, you are channeled into only one colour chart, which is very liberating.

In Edward Bulmer’s words, do you know what is the number one cause of climate change? Non-renewable fossil fuels. The paint industry is inextricably linked to the oil industry but we can all help change that by making a simple switch from paint made with plastic to paint made from plants.

Then the next step might be to think what you can move around your home to refresh a space - a piece of art, a light, rug or item of furniture can look very different in a new spot and transform how you see the space. You can’t get much more sustainable than using what you already have.

SKQ: What trends are you seeing in interiors that tap into this approach?

SD: Since lock down and spending more time in their homes, there has been a noticeable shi to more characterful, layered, authentic spaces. These individual spaces bring emotional expression and comfort and can be created by arranging an eclectic mix of patterns, texture and objects. So as well as Vinted for fashion, there is Vinterior for interior decor, and people are making the conscious choice to incorporate second-hand or vintage items into their interior design, which is both eco-friendly and atmospheric.

SKQ: If you like a sleek modern look maybe vintage isn’t your style, is it still possible to create a sustainable interior? If so, how?

SD: It is my passion to promote reusing products that are already in this world, so I have to say that vintage or second hand doesn't have to mean rustic or maximalist, it can very definitely mean sleek and modern. Look for vintage furniture with clean, simple lines that align with modern design aesthetics and avoid overly ornate or fussy pieces that might clash with the sleekness of a modern interior. Another sustainable choice for your home and one that can be a very modern design statement, is to buy or commission a vibrant piece of art from a local artist. Remember the key to achieving a successful blend of vintage and modern is finding the right balance between the two styles. Experiment and trust your eye for what you love, and have fun creating an individual, sustainable interior, one choice at a time.

SKQ: How can you avoid being drawn in by greenwashing?

SD: Similarly to how I navigate the message of That Rebel House’s vision, a lot of other small businesses are being transparent and are willingly to say that they haven't got everything right just yet, they openly communicate their challenges and want to bring you on their journey of progress rather than claiming every practice is eco-friendly. So please support small brands with their sustainability efforts, particularly those that are manufacturing within the U.K. Also, look for longevity and versatility. Choose products that have a long lifespan and can adapt to changing needs, such as our classic 100% cotton Suzanis. Even though they are manufactured overseas, they are made by hand in very small scale production and can be reused again and again. Buying such a versatile piece means it can start life as decorative wall art, but in it's next space be a throw or a curtain, with the potential to become a vintage piece and be round your space for years to come.

SKQ: Any key brands that you would like to call out as doing something special?

SD: Haines Collection - winners of the 2023 House & Garden Responsible Design Award. Haines’ mission is to reduce waste in the interiors industry. They are a pioneering platform for the resale of fabric offcuts that would otherwise most likely be headed to landfill. This allows interior businesses and consumers alike to make small but positive changes to help reduce the negative impact that they have on the planet. thatrebelhouse.co.uk

Skinflint lighting - Cornish based company offering reconditioned Eastern Bloc industrial lights. They offer a buy back scheme, so when you’re done with the light you bought from them (if you’re moving or want a change of look), you can send it back to them to resell and they give you a voucher for your next light purchase with them. It’s a fantastic circular economy approach.

SKQ: What is your number one tip for decorating more sustainably?

SD: It doesn’t have to be all or nothing. Update by update, you can make the choice, where possible, to take the friendlier option for our planet. If you haven't already read the book for The Earthshot Prize, then you can take great inspiration from thisembracing the idea that individual effort can unleash exponential change, and make a better world. For example, next time you want to purchase a rug for your home, why not make the conscious decision that you will buy a vintage or antique rug - a beautiful, one off product that is already in this world.

@thatrebelhouse