This blog contains the main principles and 20 inspirational ideas for sustainable home decor!
I write a lot about how bringing nature indoors through colours, materials, and design is a great way to decorate your home. This post is less about the aesthetics of nature but more about how to decorate while protecting nature — aka, focusing on sustainability.
I think that home decor can be one of the hardest areas to implement sustainability in, probably because it is not something you actively do daily. Also, when people are actively decorating a home, there are usually a million things to worry about, so they end up buying things that catch your eye and are easily available first, and then you’re stuck with them.
Now, of course I am not advocating to replace any of your perfectly good but “unsustainable” decor or furniture items. The most sustainable thing is what you already own. But if you are moving into a new home, or are just replacing a few worn out items, keeping sustainability principles in mind can help you make better purchasing decisions that you will benefit from for years to come.
I’ll start with the main sustainable principles for home decor to always keep in mind, followed by some specific ideas for your next home decorating project.
5 Main Principles for Sustainable Home Decor
1. Do your Research
As with most sustainable consumption doing your research is key. For every product you are considering buying, look up it’s sustainability credentials, what the company who makes it is like, and what it’s made from.
Try to buy from local companies with good commitments to sustainability with transparency about how their products are made. Yes, that means doing a bit of extra work, but especially for home decor items which you will have for a long time, that extra work will pay off in the long run.
2. Buy with Intention
Overconsumption is pushed on us from every angle, and it’s a big reason for many of the threats and destruction the Earth is facing today. It is key that you look through and resist all those marketing campaigns, influencer endorsements, and sales promotions. It’s best practice to implement a week long waiting rule to prevent impulse buying, and doing your research can help with that too.
Buy only what you actually need and what will enhance the space you are decorating. Whenever you are interested in an item, question whether it fits with the rest of the room and if you will love it for 10+ years. You can achieve a lot more will a few intentional decor items than with a huge collection of trendy pieces cluttering your space.
3. Focus on Natural Materials
Whenever possible, avoid synthetics and plastics. They are not only made using unsustainable fossil fuels, but are known to shed microplastics during use and pollute the environment for centuries when discarded. Synthetic products also don’t hold up well over time.
Focus on wood and stone for furniture and floors, and fibres like cotton, linen and jute for anything textile based. Wool and leather are also amazing and durable natural options for many items, if you are not opposed to using animal products. Avoid convenient but unsustainable products like PVC and vinyl flooring and tiles, because they are made from fossil fuels and chemicals, and are not as durable as real wood and stone.
4. Choose Quality and Durability
By default, the longer an item lasts, the more sustainable it is, because it needs less replacing. Yes, higher quality products are usually more expensive up front, but over time you will save a lot of money (and negative environmental impact) by buying an item that will actually last.
Quality is determined by the material, as I described in the previous point, but also by production and construction. This is where your research comes in again. You can look up reviews, information about their production methods, or visually assess quality as much as possible. And a cheaper price is usually a good indicator of companies cutting corners.
5. Try Vintage, Secondhand, and Upcycled Options
Following circular principles is a great way to find high quality, unique, and sustainable pieces. Giving an item a second life means no new resources need to be used to make something, and no waste ends up in the environment. And you can end up with more creative and unique pieces than what is available new in stores.
Vintage furniture and decor items are usually made from sustainable materials and high quality construction, with intricate details that modern products tend to lack. While good vintage options can be expensive, there are also plenty of other secondhand options you can find. And upcycled options, where someone has taken a worn out item on material and made it into something new, are another great option to find totally unique and creative decor items.
I recommend making a list of the main items you want to source, look up some inspiration pictures for style, and start browsing local secondhand stores, online local marketplaces, or even just the streets of your neighbourhood! I have found several furniture items for free from my neighbours giving them away.
20 Inspiring Ideas for Sustainable Home Decor
Now that we have the main sustainable home decor principles to follow, let’s see how they can be applied realistically with these ideas for inspiration.
1. Low Impact Paints
If you are painting your walls, the type of paint you choose matter. Many standard paints contain Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), which release chemicals that affect indoor air quality, so try to find VOC-free paints.
Most common paints, including some VOC-free ones, are made from fossil fuel based synthetics. So the second thing you want to look for is natural, bio-based paints like lime or clay paint using natural oils as binders.
2. Wooden Furniture
Tables, chairs, beds, pretty much every staple piece of furniture comes best made from wood. It is long-lasting, non-toxic, and a renewable material (if sustainably sourced with FSC certification).
Even when it starts showing signs of wear, it just creates a rustic and cosy look, rather than tired like most other materials will. And aesthetically, nothing beats wood for that earthy and natural look.
3. Natural Fibres for Rugs
Rugs are essential for making a home cosy, and the material you choose can make all the difference. Be ware of synthetic options which are common, and instead find natural fibres.
Cotton and wool are great classic options that feel soft underfoot and are durable, and come in many style options. You can also go for more textured, woven plant fibres like jute, sisal, coir, or seagrass, which all have a beautiful organic look and are very durable.
4. Natural Fabrics for Upholstery
Sofas and chairs are some of the most used items in your home, so it is worth paying attention to what they are made of. Many upholstery fabrics are synthetic, which means they are less breathable, less durable over time, and not great for the environment.
Look for natural options like cotton, linen, or wool upholstery. Leather is also amazing for chairs if you are not vegan. These materials not only feel better but also age more gracefully. If buying new furniture is not an option, you can also look into reupholstering a secondhand piece using natural fabrics.
5. Natural Fabrics for Bedding
Your bed is where you spend a huge part of your life, so choosing natural fabrics here is especially important. Materials like cotton and linen are breathable, comfortable, and much better for your skin compared to synthetics.
Linen is my absolute favourite great because it is beautiful, comfortable, and gets softer over time. Cotton cotton is also a solid option that is more widely available and more affordable. Avoid polyester blends always, as they reduce the quality and sustainability of the fabric.
6. Natural Fabrics for Curtains
Curtains can completely change the feel of a room, and using natural fabrics is not only more sustainable but much more aesthetically pleasing.
Linen and cotton curtains create a soft, flowing look that fits perfectly with a natural and grounded interior style. They also allow light to filter through more gently, making your space feel calmer and more inviting. Full disclosure, I cut up an old brushed cotton duvet cover that did not fit and turned it into beautiful curtains!
7. Thrifted and Vintage Wall Art
Wall art is a great place to incorporate secondhand finds. Vintage paintings, prints, and frames often have much more character than mass-produced modern pieces.
You can find beautiful nature-inspired artwork in charity shops or online marketplaces, or even free digitally restored vintage prints that you can print yourself. It is a simple way to add personality to your space while staying sustainable.
8. Local Artworks and Decorations
Supporting local artists is a great way to find unique pieces while reducing the environmental impact of shipping and mass production. Local markets, small galleries, and independent makers often have one-of-a-kind items that you will not find anywhere else. This is especially great for wall art and ceramics.
These pieces also tend to feel more personal and meaningful, which makes your home feel less like a showroom and more like your own space. And you will make the day of any small local artist you buy from!
9. Thrifted and Vintage Furniture
Furniture is one of the best categories to shop secondhand. Older pieces are often made from higher quality materials and built to last much longer than many modern products.
You can find everything from solid wood tables to unique cabinets in charity shops or online. With a bit of patience, you can build a home full of character without buying new. I bought my dining table and chairs completely from Facebook marketplace!
10. Repurpose Old Furniture and Decorations
Before getting rid of something or buying something new, think about whether your old items can be repurposed. An old dresser can be sanded and refinished, glass jars can become storage, and unused textiles can be turned into cushion covers.
Repurposing saves money, reduces waste, and often results in something much more unique than buying new.
11. Wood or Stone Floors
Flooring is a big decision, and choosing natural materials like wood or stone is a more sustainable option than synthetic alternatives like vinyl or laminate.
These materials are durable, timeless, and can last for decades if maintained properly. They also improve the overall feel of your home, making it more grounded and connected to nature.
12. Natural Stone Kitchen and Bathroom Elements
In kitchens and bathrooms, materials like natural stone for worktops and wall tiles, are a great sustainable choice. They are durable, non-toxic, and age beautifully over time.
While they can be more expensive upfront, they are long-lasting and often require less maintenance compared to synthetic alternatives.
13. Plants!
Obviously I cannot leave out houseplants in a list for sustainable home decor. Plants are one of the easiest and most effective ways to make your home feel more alive. They improve air quality, add colour, and bring an instant connection to nature.
You do not need to turn your home into a jungle. Even a few well-placed plants can make a big difference. Start with easy options and build from there.
14. Ceramic Decorations
Ceramics are made from natural materials like clay and often have a beautiful handmade quality. Think vases, bowls, mugs, or decorative objects.
They add subtle texture and warmth to a space, and their durability means they can last for years without losing their beauty.
15. Natural Outdoor Furniture
For outdoor spaces, choose materials like wood, stone, or metal instead of plastic. These materials are much more durable and weather-resistant, especially if properly maintained.
They also age better and fit more naturally into garden or patio environments.
16. Solar Powered Outdoor Lights
Outdoor lighting can use a lot of energy, but solar powered lights are a simple and effective alternative. They charge during the day and light up your space at night without increasing your electricity use.
They are easy to install and work especially well for gardens, balconies, and pathways.
17. Energy-Efficient Lighting
Switching to energy-efficient lighting is one of the easiest sustainable upgrades you can make. LED bulbs use significantly less energy and last much longer than traditional bulbs.
They also come in a variety of warm tones, so you do not have to compromise on creating a cosy atmosphere.
18. Plant-Based Candles
Many conventional candles are made from paraffin wax, which is derived from fossil fuels. Plant-based candles made from soy, beeswax, or other natural waxes are a better alternative.
They burn cleaner, last longer, and often come with more natural scents. It is a small swap that can make a difference over time.
19. Bamboo in Bathrooms
Bamboo is a fast-growing and renewable material, making it a great option for bathroom accessories. Items like toothbrush holders, soap dishes, or storage trays are widely available.
It holds better than wood in in humid environments like bathrooms and adds a natural, spa-like feel to your space.
20. Plastic-Free Storage Solutions
Storage is essential in any home, but it is often overlooked from a sustainability perspective. Try to avoid plastic boxes and instead use materials like wood, metal, glass, or woven baskets.
These options are more durable, look better, and help maintain a cohesive, natural aesthetic throughout your home.
As with any sustainable change in your life, remember to take things slow and with intention. Sustainable home decor is achieved through always remembering the potential impact on the environment and making the most of what you already have. Happy decorating!
