INTERIORS JULY BATH.qxp_Layout 1 18/06/2026 10:25 Page 1
HOMES & INTERIORS
Be beautifully sustainable:
Creating a greener home without compromising on style Sustainability is one of the biggest influences on interior design today. Once considered a niche concern, it is now shaping everything from the way our homes are heated to the materials used in our kitchens, bathrooms and furnishings. Words by Katherine Raderecht
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he good news is that creating a more sustainable home doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort or aesthetics. In fact, some of the most beautiful interiors are those designed with longevity in mind. Choosing quality materials, investing in craftsmanship and selecting products that are built to last are not only environmentally responsible decisions, they are the foundations of good design. The most sustainable home is often not the one filled with the latest technology, but the one where every choice has been carefully considered.
Buy less, buy better One of the simplest ways to create a more sustainable home is to buy less and buy better. For years, the interiors industry was driven by fast-moving trends and inexpensive furniture designed to be replaced every few years. Thankfully, attitudes are changing. Increasingly, homeowners are investing in pieces
MIXING OLD AND NEW: Sentimental, family heirlooms are given a new lease of life by reupholstering and renovating to combine with contemporary touches. Image by Woodhouse and Law
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that will stand the test of time rather than following short-lived fashions. A well-made dining table, a quality sofa or a handcrafted kitchen may cost more initially, but if it lasts for decades, it is almost always a more sustainable choice than replacing cheaper alternatives every few years. There has also been a resurgence in buying vintage, antique and reclaimed pieces. From architectural salvage yards to antiques markets and online marketplaces, homeowners are increasingly seeking furniture with history and character. Not only does this prevent perfectly good items from ending up in landfill, it also creates homes that feel unique and personal. Paint is another area where sustainability has advanced considerably. Many manufacturers now offer low-VOC paints that release fewer harmful chemicals into the home and environment. These products have improved dramatically in recent years and no longer require any compromise on colour, finish or durability. Vanessa Sayce of Marmalade House design suggests, “When furniture