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TEXTILES

Material matters

The role of fabric selection
in sustainable

interior design

ith many of us trying to live
a more sustainable lifestyle,
Wthere’s a growing focus on
environmentally-friendly options when it
comes to interiors.
The textile industry category, which
includes household, technical fabrics,
fashion and clothing, is responsible for
approximately 10% of all global emissions.
An extra reason, if ever we needed one,
to think carefully about the furnishings,
fabrics and fittings we choose for our
homes. Here, we explore the principles of
sustainable design, and discuss why eco-
friendly, PFAS-free upholstery options
such as FibreGuard are a great choice for
interior design. The importance of eco-friendly materials can significantly reduce damaging
in interior design environmental effects. This is where
What is sustainable design? Many materials conventionally used sustainable materials come in – ones
Sustainable design adopts a holistic in interior design are now considered that are produced with minimum
approach to creating objects and spaces problematic because of their undesirable environmental impact and are designed
that minimise negative environmental impact on the environment. Non- for durability and longevity.
impact. Sustainable design strategies renewable materials such as hardwoods, Here are four things to look for in
include designing for longevity, concrete and metals use up the earth’s sustainable materials for the home:
circularity (using recyclable materials) limited resources and are likely end up in Energy efficiency – Eco-friendly
and dematerialisation (making products landfill when no longer required. materials often use less energy in
smaller and lighter in order to use less If careful choices are made, the their production process than more
resources). materials we select for our interiors conventional options.

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