In a world where environmental concerns are being pushed to the top of the bill, sustainable living has entered aspects of life, including home decor. Today's homeowners are more conscious of their footprint, seeking ways to create beautiful living spaces without compromising. With the help of Samuel Collett, CEO of the London-based home & garden care brand Willow Alexander, we investigate green home decor, offering insights and tips on how to craft a stylish, sustainable living environment.
Why Choose Eco-Friendly Home Decor?
These days, opting for eco-friendly home decor is about more than how something looks; it's about committing to a greener planet. Sustainable decor reduces waste, promotes efficient energy, and supports ethical production practices. You can enhance your home's aesthetic whilst not putting pressure on the planet.
Sustainable and Upcycled Materials
In our discussion with Samuel Collett, he advised that "one of the simplest ways to convert your home into an eco-friendly haven is by choosing decor made from sustainable materials. These materials are typically renewable, recyclable, or upcycled, minimising the impact on the environment." Upon his recommendation, we've picked a few materials that are both aesthetically pleasing and environmentally conscious:
- Bamboo: A fast-growing plant, bamboo is an excellent choice for flooring, furniture, and decoration. Its durability and natural look make it a favourite for those wanting to kit their home out consciously, for example, with Willow Alexanders Vintage Chinese Bamboo Plate set, for practical and decorative use.
- Reclaimed Wood: Using repurposed wood from old structures gives it a second life and reduces the demand for new timber; it can also add rustic charm to any home.
- Organic Cotton and Linen: Soft furnishings like cushions, curtains, and throws made from organic cotton or linen are free from harmful chemicals and greener than synthetic alternatives; they also keep the home warm in the winter—adding another sustainable edge to their uses.
Tips for Maintaining a Stylish, Eco-Friendly Home
Collett also has ideas for ensuring your home is both sustainable and stylish. Here are his top tips on keeping your space chic and green:
- Less Is More: Samuel suggests embracing minimalism by choosing quality over quantity, "a few well-made, sustainable pieces can impact more than a cluttered room full of mass-produced items," he advises.
- Choose Timeless Designs: His next tip is to "opt for classic styles that won't go out of fashion, reducing the need to replace items frequently." Timeless designs are an investment not only in your home but in the environment equally.
- Support Local Artisans: "Buying from local craftspeople not only reduces the carbon footprint associated with shipping but also supports the local economy," he suggests looking for handmade, sustainable items that reflect your style.
Extra's and Add On's
Not strictly home care or décor but an accompaniment to stylish and comfortable living: clothing and pet care. Sustainability can extend to every aspect of life, and Willow Alexander has a small capsule range of outerwear and pieces that are useful around the home. This comes alongside a dog toy range made from exclusively natural cotton, providing proof that you don't have to make any compromises when it comes to your cupboard or pets.
Sustainable home decor is about making thoughtful choices, and slowly but surely, you can curate your home into a space that is as stylish as it is sustainable. Samuel Collett has ensured that Willow Alexander offers a range of products that embody this ethos, providing high-quality items and services that help you live in harmony with the environment.
