Sustainability in FF&E, four ways to build it into an interior

Now, as you (the consumer) are becoming more environmentally conscious and eco-friendly, the shape of interior designing is also on the verge of changing. All the elements of designing, i.e. the furniture, fixture and equipment (FF&E) are also being incorporated in such a way as to reflect the concept of environmental protection and awareness.

You do not have to choose between a good-looking interior and a responsible one. Here are four places the decision actually gets made.

Four ways to build sustainability in

1. Energy efficiency

Start with the energy and the heating, because that is where the largest share of a home’s impact sits. Rather than an open fire, use curtains, shutters, shades and blinds to keep the heat where you want it. The same layers keep the cold out in winter. Carpets insulate, so a carpeted room holds warmth better than a bare one. Small changes to the furniture, fixtures and equipment add up.

2. Reduce waste

Finally, the designing world is becoming aware of the concept of recycling, repurposing and upcycling. Do not throw furniture out because it has gone out of fashion. Upcycling brings most of it back. Remember that old broken ladder in the attic? Try to revamp it into a rustic ladder and use it anywhere around the house for a vintage, modern look. On the other hand, synthetic material can be used to furnish the home. These materials can be reused once you are done with it.

3. Longevity

To ensure sustainability, look up the life cycle of the FF&E you have in mind. Your aim is to design timeless and durable spaces which don’t need to be changed again and again. Here, you need to make a choice. To ensure your FF&E have longevity, choose functionality instead of embellishments, quality instead of quantity and classic design over a trendy one. It should be kept in mind that even if you get bored of one element, changing it should be easy. Design the room so that individual pieces can be swapped out, rather than the whole room being stripped.

4. Maintenance

The most important and often overlooked aspect is the maintenance of FF&E. Use materials that are easy to clean without heavy chemicals, because those chemicals are themselves a source of pollution. A good idea is to go for modular carpets. If one piece of the carpet needs to be replaced, you don’t need to waste the entire carpet. All you need to do is pick that piece up and replace it. Hence, opting for furniture and materials which are strong, sturdy and durable, ensure less wear and tear.

If you want a design and build team that specifies this way, tell us about the project.

Call 020 7731 6841 or email info@nuprojects.co.uk.