As Great Big Green Week continues, Alysha Alli, Group interior designer at Redrow, gives her thoughts on how to make sustainable choices for your home without compromising on style.
With Great Big Green Week running from June 7th to June 15th, Alysha said: “It's the perfect time to reflect on how we can make our homes both stylish and sustainable, and remember the impact our choices have on the environment.”
Here are some practical tips and strategies to help you create interiors that stand the test of time while being kinder to the planet.
Practical Tips for Eco-Friendly Design Choices
“Sustainability starts with the choices we make when furnishing our homes,” said Alysha. “Opting for locally made or handmade pieces, ensures you are supporting artisans and reducing the environmental impact of mass production. While it may be tempting to purchase budget-friendly items from fast-retailers, investing in higher-quality materials means your furniture will not only last longer but also be crafted with care and durability in mind.”
Mindful Minimalism: Sustainable Design for Timeless Interiors
Minimalism is evolving beyond its traditional starkness, embracing a softer, more refined aesthetic, as Alysha explained:
“The rise of ‘Japandi’ and playful minimalism highlights a growing desire for interiors that balance comfort, style, and tranquillity- whilst also reducing environmental impact. By prioritising natural materials, durable design, and intentional simplicity, this approach promotes both aesthetic longevity and eco-conscious choices.”
Here’s four ways you can incorporate this into your home:
- Zen-Inspired Spaces: Pinterest searches for “zen house” have surged by 405%, indicating a shift toward interiors that promote balance and serenity. Incorporating natural materials, organic shapes, and an uncluttered layout creates harmony while reducing excess consumption.
- Low-Key Luxury: Refined finishes and sustainable materials like responsibly sourced stone and wood create an understated yet eco-friendly sense of luxury. Adding elements like bronze accents creates a rich yet organic feel.
- Simplified Colour Palettes: Earthy neutrals such as unbleached linen, terracotta, and black, form a timeless backdrop that allows sustainable textures and materials to shine.
- Folk Symbolism: Handcrafted pieces with meaningful designs or talisman-inspired details, celebrate cultural heritage and craftsmanship, supporting ethical production practices.
Upcycling & Repurposing: Giving Furniture a Second Life
One of the simplest ways to embrace sustainability is by upcycling or repurposing furniture and décor. Platforms like Facebook Marketplace offer a treasure trove of pre-loved items waiting for a second chance.
- DIY Touch-Ups: A fresh coat of paint or new upholstery can completely transform an old chair or table.
- Lighting Refresh: Simply swapping out a lampshade can make a big impact on a room’s ambiance.
- Blending Old & New: Combining vintage finds with modern pieces creates a layered, characterful interior that feels curated over time.
Embracing Sustainability: Conscious Design for a Greener Home
“The push for conscious design goes beyond aesthetics, it’s about integrating sustainable innovations into our homes,” said Alysha. Her tips include for embracing a more sustainable lifestyle include:
- Reducing Microplastics: Choose furniture and textiles made from recycled or bio-based materials and look for water filtration solutions that eliminate plastic particles.
- Solar Innovations: The rise of solar-powered lighting and energy-efficient appliances helps reduce both your carbon footprint and electricity bills.
- Luxury with Longevity: High-end design is shifting toward circularity, with brands prioritising durable, repairable, and responsibly sourced materials. Investing in quality ensures your home remains timeless and environmentally responsible.
Read on for more on the latest interior design trends for spring and summer 2025.
