Design Innovations Embracing Sustainability: 6 Persistent Patterns Transforming into Design Advantages
In the evolving landscape of interior design, sustainability is no longer a secondary concern.With growing consciousness about the environmental impact of products and interiors, the use of sustainable materials now takes centre stage in design discussions.
The composition of furniture or home textiles, which once might have been an afterthought, is now being given serious consideration. As longevity remains a crucial aspect in the creation of furniture, there is an increasing acceptance of biomaterials with shorter life cycles.
Purva Chawla, founder and partner of MaterialDriven, a global design agency, explains, "Consumers and specifiers are becoming more receptive to wholly biobased solutions that may only last three years, offering us healthy, clean interior living spaces."
Innovations in technology are also driving the performance of biobased materials, enabling them to match the durability and functionality of their synthetic counterparts.
Recycled materials are gaining popularity, with several designers and studios incorporating them into their designs in innovative ways. Foresso, a sustainable surface material crafted in the UK from wood waste, is being used in various applications like worktops, furniture, and wallcoverings. Its low-carbon footprint and durability make it an attractive choice for designers.
Another recycled material, Marwoolus, developed by Italian designer Marco Guazzini, is adding a touch of elegance to interiors. Made from locally sourced recycled marble dust and wool fibers, it combines the natural beauty of marble with the practical benefits of a sustainable material.
Algae, another renewable natural resource, is being reimagined by designers and creators in innovative ways. Design studio LAYER presented a new collaboration with Muuto during Milan Design Week, using algae oil as a power source for an oil lamp that merges tradition with contemporary design.
Cork, a material once commonly used in homes, has experienced a resurgence due to its regenerative qualities. Architectural firm Rockwell Group presented an immersive installation at Milan Design Week, showcasing the versatility and aesthetic appeal of cork surfaces.
Mycelium is another biomaterial gaining popularity. Studio TOOJ presented its DUK Series at Milan Design Week, made using Reishi, a mycelium-derived material engineered by biotechnology company MycoWorks.
Bacterial cellulose fiber is also being explored for use in woven textiles, offering a leather-like feel and exceptional strength. The potential uses of this material in interior design are being explored by designers.
In addition to sustainable materials, paint companies are focusing on the use of plant-based and eco-friendly ingredients to create non-toxic, low-VOC paints. Edward Bulmer Natural Paint and Polly Ashman's work in this area is commended for its historical authenticity, rich pigmentation, and contribution to healthier indoor environments.
As designers focus on balancing design-led aesthetics, functionality, quality, and sustainability, the spaces we live in are becoming more eco-friendly. This shift is not only environmentally responsible but also an attractive choice for property buyers and homeowners seeking to reduce their carbon footprint and create unique and refreshing interiors.
- In line with the trend toward sustainable practices, there's a growing preference for Scandinavian interior design that emphasizes eco-friendly materials and color schemes in contemporary living spaces.
- The kitchen, considered the heart of the home, is being transformed with innovative flooring solutions like Foresso, a sustainable surface material crafted from wood waste, offering durability and a low-carbon footprint.
- Art and furniture, integral components of any home, are being reimagined with recycled materials such as Marwoolus, a blend of recycled marble dust and wool fibers, adding an element of sophistication while being environmentally friendly.
- Tiles, too, are following the trend, with designers utilizing sustainable resources like algae oil for oil lamps during events like Milan Design Week, merging tradition with contemporary design.
- Home-and-garden lifestyle enthusiasts are embracing the use of natural, biobased materials such as cork, mycelium, and bacterial cellulose fiber—each offering unique benefits—to create a harmonious balance between aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability at home.
