Redefining green living has taken center stage in contemporary interior design, with homeowners seeking a balance between lavish aesthetics and eco-friendly or sustainable home decor materials to enhance the ambience of their spaces. Practicing awareness requires embracing sustainable home furnishing innovations that go beyond just using sustainable materials.
Speaking to HT Lifestyle, Smriti Choudhury, Brand Director, Cocoon Fine Rugs, said, “Rugs made from natural fibres like pure silk and wool that can last for generations pave the way for conscious living. To ensure a longer and more sustainable life for your carpets, it is always best to avoid using fibres like bamboo and banana silk, which tend to darken and yellow in a couple of years. Instead, rugs made from PET yarn, a yarn made from recycled plastic bottles, make for a long-lasting product that can be used outdoors, balancing environmental responsibility.”
She reveals: “Material choices often introduce innovative design techniques that enhance the aesthetic appeal of sustainable home furnishings. Experimenting with patterns, textures and colours exudes sophistication while adhering to eco-conscious living norms, contributing to a healthier planet. Moreover, opting for mono-material in carpet designs ensures that the face and backing are composed of the same material, eliminating the need for expensive separation and refining processes. This approach significantly increases the recyclability of the carpet, amplifying its impact on sustainability.”
According to Anushka Ahuja, co-founder of Studio by Agni, manufacturers employ eco-friendly processes to minimize waste and reduce their impact on the environment. She highlighted, “For example, recycling and reusing yarn dyes, water, yarn residues, cardboard cones and pallets significantly reduces waste. Additionally, using materials such as reclaimed wood, bamboo, recycled plastic and organic fabrics in furniture and décor further promotes sustainability. These practices prioritise environmental responsibility and foster an economic cycle where resources are used efficiently and waste is minimised.”
By incorporating both eco-friendly materials and manufacturing processes, home furnishings are redefining modern living, offering stylish and functional solutions in line with a greener, more sustainable future.