Eco design cues
It’s always exciting to see design ideas emerge each season. Currently eco design in homewares and fashion (particularly in Europe), is inspiring interior designers around the world.
Environmentally conscious design often draws inspiration from nature… Perfect for creating inviting spaces and a sense of comfort in homes, as we head into colder weather over Autumn. Perhaps the ongoing ‘return to nature’ in interior design, reflects an increasing need for some serenity, amongst the demands of modern day life.
Eco Design
Natural materials, handcrafted and recycled furnishings are key elements in eco-conscious interiors. “For soft furnishings, this can include using beautifully-soft, recycled natural textiles – such as wool, cashmere, cottons and linens,” explains Jayne Morgan, from The Finishing Touches. “Soft woven jute baskets, jute or jute-wool rugs, are also simple ways to add natural fibres and textures to a home.”
Woven rattan and cane lighting, such as long pendant lighting, are eye-catching ways to showcase natural materials. Incorporating wood and natural stone is also common in European design trends this season. This includes heavily veined marble – a timeless focal design feature, organic yet elegant, almost an artwork in itself!
Sustainable Choices
In response to increasing consumer awareness, and for some, what is seen as excessive consumerism globally, more and more interior designers incorporate furnishings, homewares and accessories made from sustainable, renewable and ethically sourced materials.
“For some designers, their inspiration and point of difference, comes from using items and materials with a longer life cycle and lower carbon footprint,” says Jayne. “For example, rather than using plastics, using glass or metals – especially if they have been recycled.”
Recycled/Upcycled Furniture
Recycled, upcycled, vintage and retro furniture aren’t new to the design world, but are often the timeless heroes of eco-conscious design.
“Repurposing furniture, handcrafting furniture using reclaimed wood, or simply not throwing out furniture you already have and giving it a new lease on life with paint and fabric, is a brilliant way to make the most of what can become statement pieces of furniture,” enthuses Jayne.
Nature’s Palette
“I’m seeing lovely warm tones – especially earth-browns, plus soft terracottas, salmon pink, greens and reds … Colours which can be added very simply by using accessories, such as an accent bowl,” says Jayne. “Darker woods and timber are also featuring, including in flooring and architectural elements.”
The beauty of this season’s directions in interior design, is how easily they can make a home feel warm and welcoming for family, friends or potential buyers. In Autumn and Winter, creating nurturing spaces at home is important… Even better, when we make sustainable choices, with the environment in mind.
