Sustainability

As designers we always question what exactly are these sustainable practices, and how can we incorporate them? We always aim to create homes that works for both the planet and you. Sustainability has developed a lot over the past few years. A lot of emphasis has been placed on renewable resources and using products that lower the carbon footprint. However, for us it is the longevity of the materials and the aesthetic that should be at the core of each scheme and material selection.

For example, let’s look at one of the largest surfaces that make a design impact – flooring. A popular choice now is vinyl flooring, a cheap alternative to hardwood floors. Most brands produce this material sustainably, but vinyl flooring is still a product that does not age well and often gets replaced in the short term. Hardwood flooring may well be a better option.

Another area to be aware of is how products are made – for example, if they produce harmful gasses like formamide. Although we do try and support local and smaller businesses, it seems suppliers haven’t caught up with this issue yet.

Heirloom quality should be at the core of each decision, as these materials really make an impact in home interior design. This means choosing good, quality material that has lasting power against changing styles and trends. We have designed bathrooms over a decade ago, which would still be up to date today. Key is to pick neutral tiles with a natural finish. Adding some wood on the vanity doors and a stone on the countertop will be evergreen – this way you can still be happy with your choices after a decade.

The same goes with furniture choices. Instead of looking for big box items made from poor quality MDF or chip board, we like to source for antiques or solid wood custom pieces that stand the test of time. We have worked with antiques which are over 300 years old and still work well in today’s design scheme. This is true sustainability – these are items that can easily pass down generations and they also have a sentimental value.

While the initial outlay might be higher, in the long run you can save substantially picking quality materials. Using inferior materials, cheap chipboard furniture and mass-produced items seems to be a short-term solution to renovating and interior design. For some furniture pieces, you pay a premium because it’s made from solid wood or natural fabric, but then these pieces can last years.

Interiors affects how we feel, they change our emotions and the people around us – it impacts all our senses. This has become more evident through the pandemic as our time at home has increased. Well-appointed homes envelop you with belonging, while familiarity helps to soothe and relax you. One element is space, and while we might not have large spaces to live in, we can plan our homes to hide clutter, and use items that bring enjoyment and happiness.

Homes provides shelter and a place to live, but they are so much more than that, especially when you live a hectic life, or you travel or uproot frequently. Creating a home that is familiar helps reduce stress and creates affinity and attachment.

The way a home is laid out and how each space functions, is important. One of the most important things we seem to have lost is a foyer – this is the perfect decompression zone. We may not all be blessed with that space, but we can make simple tweaks to create it. From adding a simple cased opening to de-mark the space to erecting some walls to create a foyer.

Mealtime is also an important aspect. To have a dedicated dining space – away from a television or other distractions is something we would like to introduce back into our designs. Another area that should reflect calm and tranquillity is the bedroom – this should be a personal space that cocoons you and helps you unwind and relax. Often, we see clients running out of budget when it comes to designing the master bedroom, but here window treatments, bedding, and artwork play an important role.

We design homes where the elements keep revealing themselves, and there is something to discover each time you look. These might not be apparent on first glance (for example a marbled skirting), but the depth of layering in the details is what makes homes interesting and shows personality. In addition, we integrate pieces have meaning and history. Objects gathered over the years are a great way to keep giving that home personality, comfort, and a familiarity that you want from a well-designed home.