In today’s world, sustainability in interior design is no longer just a trend—it’s an expectation. Modern clients increasingly seek designs that prioritize eco-friendly practices, sustainable materials, and thoughtful resource management.
For interior designers, integrating sustainable design principles isn’t just about reducing environmental impact—it’s about creating spaces that are timeless, functional, and future-proof. Here are key strategies to appeal to modern clients through sustainability.
Assess Sustainable Manufacturing and Operations
Where possible, carefully assess the manufacturers of pieces that you would normally source from and determine if they are actively seeking opportunities to be sustainable. These can come in the form of how they work to streamline manufacturing processes, invest in energy efficiency, identify opportunities to reduce waste, and educate their employees about the importance of sustainability. While some of these details may not be readily available, learn what you can about manufacturers and keep an eye out for details as they come available.
Prioritize Sustainable Material Selection
One of the best ways to support sustainability and the desires of your clients comes in the selection of the materials that make up interior design pieces. Materials to consider include bamboo, reclaimed wood, natural stone, wicker, organic cotton, and recycled plastic, among many others. These can often serve as replacements for materials otherwise not considered sustainable and can even deliver a fresh and unexpected vibe.
Opt for Energy-Efficient Lighting and Fixtures
Select lighting fixtures that maintain their style factor with the swapping of more traditional bulbs for those that are LED – energy savings can be around 75%, which is quite significant. Also, lean more towards lamps vs. utilizing excessive overhead lighting, which not only helps the environment but allows you more opportunities to get creative with a space. Capitalizing on natural light is also a great way to embrace sustainability while transforming the feel of a space.
Incorporate Plant Life into Design Spaces
Adding greenery to a space can give it a sense of energy and life, and also promote sustainability. When looking at pieces to recommend or share with a client, keep an eye out for those that would be nicely incorporated into a space and be enhanced through plant life. Taking care of plants doesn’t have to be a huge endeavor, especially if you don’t have a green thumb – a sprinkling of strategically placed succulents can be a nice addition to an overall room’s aesthetic.
Embrace Modular and Flexible Furniture
Consider furniture that makes sense with a client’s space but that can also be easily rearranged to support the functionality of a space. Too often, furniture may be selected for a certain aesthetic but will then require a full rehaul of a design if the design mood should change, causing existing pieces to be pushed by the wayside. Modular furniture is an easy way to make the most of the space, enjoy style, and ensure that sustainability is still top of mind.
Advocate for Minimalism in Design
Minimalism is a powerful aesthetic in promoting sustainability in that it allows clients to avoid needless waste and conserve resources. The literal footprint of a room can be reduced by embracing minimalism and can allow functionality to be improved. Advise clients to lean toward a more minimalist approach that can still bring a lot of style to a room that exudes their own personality but is also eco-conscious.
Support Existing Neutral Palettes
When clients are utilizing neutrals (beige, gray, etc.), there is already an inherent level of sustainability established because these shades can easily allow for a number of different aesthetics, so the need to repaint is not nearly as necessary. Seek out design pieces for clients that coincide with the neutral palette that is existing to support sustainability – it will also help clients to avoid the headache of having to rework their color palette.
At Designer Resource Center, we’re dedicated to supporting interior designers in creating sustainable, forward-thinking spaces.
Visit our showrooms to explore eco-friendly materials, innovative furniture designs, and expert guidance for your next project.
