Living sustainably is all about making conscious choices to reduce our environmental impact.

There are plenty of ways to embrace this lifestyle, such as using resources wisely, reducing waste, and minimising pollution.

In this article, we'll explore how you can spruce up your home while being kind to the planet. 

You'll encounter unique items, money-saving alternatives, and ways to support your local community - what’s not to love?

Quick Tips for Mindful Consumption

It’s easy to get swept up in the thrill of shopping. If you want to make conscious investments, we recommend taking a moment to ponder the following questions:

  • Do I need this, or am I buying impulsively?
  • Is it well-made?
  • Do I have room for this in my home?
  • What value does this item bring to my life?
  • How long do I expect to keep this item?
  • What will the item's cost per use be?
  • Could I repurpose this item in the future?

10 Eco-Friendly Ways to Decorate Your Home

Take inspiration from this list and find sustainable ways to adorn your space. 

You can implement these styling tips anywhere in your home, from your living room to your conservatory.

Prioritise Eco-Friendly Furniture

One of the most crucial things to look out for is durable eco-friendly furniture. Aim to buy recycled or ethically sourced items which will stand the test of time without needing to be replaced.

Some of the most durable, sustainable materials include: 

However, it would be wrong to assume that all wooden furniture is sustainable. Some designs may contribute to deforestation or incorporate synthetic resins, binders and glues.

To avoid this, look for eco-labels and certifications such as FSC-certified wood. 

This certification ensures that the wood comes from responsibly managed forests and sustainable forestry practices.

 

Shop Reclaimed or Pre-Loved

Charity shops, car boot sales and online auctions are treasure troves for furniture and home accessories. These sources offer a variety of unique items, often at bargain prices.

By purchasing second-hand, you promote a circular economy which reuses materials and conserves valuable resources.

Upcycle and Repurpose

The most sustainable way to decorate your home is to utilise items you already have, although this sometimes requires a little imagination and patience.

Paint your furniture with fashionable colours or reupholster your seating with refreshed fabric. Both examples allow you to participate in interior design trends without excessive purchases and contributing to landfill.

Similarly, you can use upcycling techniques to transform unused items into functional pieces.

Typical discarded household items such as jars, bottles and cans can be transformed into quirky vases, plant pots or storage containers with a quick clean and some creativity. 

 

Support Local Businesses

Shopping locally has a massive impact on your community and the environment. 

Firstly, shopping nearby reduces transport emissions and the amount of packaging used.

There is also a greater appreciation for the pieces you buy, as you can see the dedication and creator behind the item. In turn, you'll be more likely to cherish it for years to come, extending its lifespan.

Some businesses even open up for classes and courses so people can create their own handcrafted items. Take advantage of these opportunities in your area to create truly unique decorative pieces and engage with your local community. 

 

Choose Sustainable Flooring Options

When choosing flooring for your home, consider using reliable and sustainable materials like bamboo, cork or sturdy reclaimed wood. 

These options offer a timeless and neutral foundation for your decor. You can then add your personal touch by incorporating fun colours and textures through rugs, mats, and other furnishings.

 

Invest in Natural Textiles

Organic fabrics, such as cotton, hemp, and wool, have many benefits for your home.

For example, natural materials are soft, breathable, durable and biodegradable, whereas synthetic materials can take decades or even hundreds of years to break down. 

Quality material will also last longer, saving you money when you evaluate the cost-per-use. 

Employ sustainable, toxic-free textiles across your curtains, upholstery and bedding for a light, breezy atmosphere in your home.

Improve Your Energy Efficiency

Reduce consumption by implementing sustainable energy-saving strategies in your home.

This recommendation includes substituting your light bulbs with energy-saving LED lights or switching from thermal curtains in the winter to airy, breathable fabrics in the summer.

However, one of the most underrated home hacks is to utilise mirrors to reflect natural light. 

Place a large mirror where it catches sunlight to amplify the brightness of your space. This simple adjustment will reduce the need for artificial lighting and decrease your energy consumption and utility bills.

Choose Paints and Stains With Low or Zero VOCS.

A fresh lick of paint can alter the entire look of a room without rearranging furniture or buying new pieces.

You can even incorporate paint into your upcycling projects to refresh your items.

If this sounds appealing, stock up on sustainable paint with low or zero Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC), as these are the most eco-friendly formulas. 

 

Incorporate Nature into Your Decor

Decorating with organic materials will add a new lease of life to your home. 

You could include anything from found items from your travels, such as driftwood and shells from the beach, or specially crafted pieces, such as our charming Teak Root sculptures.

Plants are equally as excellent for draping around your room, giving a sense of dimension while improving the overall air quality. 

Plants are also naturally sustainable. Learn how to propagate them to multiply your foliage and use it to further adorn your home. 

 

Use Multipurpose Furniture and Accessories

Invest in multifunctional items to optimise your home and cut out excess purchases. 

Choose versatile pieces to streamline your space, for example, bench seats with storage compartments or compact nest tables.

In other cases, use your imagination to repurpose objects. For instance, use a fruit bowl to display trinkets, a wicker basket as a stylish plant pot, or a display cabinet as a plant stand with differing shelf levels.

 

Reclaimed Wood Furniture Made in the UK

Are you feeling inspired to make more eco-conscious choices for your home decor? Shop with confidence at Sustainable Furniture.

From responsible timber sourcing to final delivery, we adhere to ethical and eco-friendly practices at every step.

Browse our complete furniture collection and supply of home accessories to find the perfect piece for your space. 

Alternatively, contact our team for more information about our products or any answers to your questions.