Sustainable Design: Creating a Beautiful Home with Intention
Sustainability is something I try to incorporate into my own life, and it’s also an important part of my philosophy as an interior designer. For me, sustainable design means being thoughtful about how we live, what we bring into our homes, what happens to those things when we’re finished with them, and making better choices whenever we can. Fortunately, those choices can make a home feel even more personal and interesting!
Start With What You Already Have
One of my favorite ways to approach a design project is to look at what a client already owns before deciding what needs to be purchased. That old dresser may simply need refinishing. A chair that’s been sitting in the corner might become the perfect piece with new upholstery. Sometimes a fresh coat of paint, new hardware, or beautiful fabric is all it takes to give an existing piece an entirely new life. Not only can this reduce waste, but it can also result in something much more unique than what you might find in a showroom. These pieces can give a home character that you simply can’t buy all at once.
Buy Thoughtfully: Timeless over Trendy
Of course, sometimes you really do need something new. When sourcing pieces, I try to consider how and where something was made, what materials were used, and how well it is likely to hold up over time. I believe there’s a sustainability lesson in the saying, “buy it nice or buy it twice.” Choosing a well-made sofa, rug, or piece of furniture that you’ll love for years is usually a better choice than repeatedly replacing something that wasn’t made to last. Just as fast fashion has encouraged us to constantly replace our clothing, there’s a similar temptation in home décor to continually buy inexpensive pieces simply because they’re trendy or affordable. But when something isn’t made to last, we often end up replacing it sooner—and buying twice. The most sustainable piece is often the one you don’t have to replace! My advice is to start with a timeless foundation and then incorporate style trends as your taste evolves in smaller, more easily changed ways such as in throw pillows or accessories .
Sustainable Doesn’t Mean Sacrificing Style
I think this is one of the most exciting things about sustainable design. Choosing responsibly doesn’t mean your home has to look minimalistic or overtly “eco.” Vintage and antique pieces can add incredible character. Natural materials bring warmth and texture. Handmade pieces add personality. Sustainably sourced furniture can be every bit as beautiful as something mass-produced. Some of my favorite interiors are the ones where old and new, vintage and modern, high and low, all live happily together.
Designing With Intention
Before clicking “Add to Cart”, ask yourself:
- Can I reuse something I already have?
- Could this piece be refinished instead of replaced?
- Is this something I’ll still love five or ten years from now?
- Can I choose a well-made or responsibly produced alternative?
These small decisions can have a meaningful impact and they often result in a home that feels more personal, layered, and authentic. This approach is more than a design philosophy for me; it’s a personal value that I bring to every project. I care about helping my clients create a home that isn’t constantly chasing the next trend, but instead is thoughtfully furnished with pieces that have longevity, purpose, and meaning.