Q&A
Best of Home & Garden · March 8, 2025
Discover innovative ways to incorporate sustainable practices in interior design with expert insights guiding you through every step. This article explores practical tips that honor existing elements, reduce waste, and maximize natural light. Learn how to make eco-friendly choices that transform spaces beautifully and responsibly.
16 gardeners in this bed
Jennifer FordhamInterior Designer, CEO · Pembrook InteriorsMy sustainable design approach begins with honoring what already exists. The most eco-friendly decision is often working with elements already in a space rather than replacing them. This requires thoughtful assessment—determining if items serve their purpose and finding them new homes if they don't.
Sustainability means investing in quality that lasts. I guide clients toward materials and construction that will serve them for at least 5-7 years, ideally for a lifetime. In children's rooms, this means selecting durable fabrics and timeless patterns that transition seamlessly from childhood through adolescence, rather than trendy character-themed textiles with short lifespans.
Locally sourced antiques represent the ultimate sustainable choice. These pieces add unique character while requiring zero new resources and eliminating transportation emissions. An antique sideboard in a modern kitchen not only creates visual interest but celebrates generations of craftsmanship and durability.
When new materials are necessary, I consider their complete lifecycle impact. Zero-VOC paint offers the same rich colors and durability as traditional options without harmful emissions, making it ideal for bedrooms and homes with sensitive occupants. Recent technological improvements have addressed early concerns about color variety and durability, making this one of the most accessible eco-friendly design choices.
Kanika B. KhuranaOwner, Principal Interior Designer · Kanika DesignAt Kanika Design, I'm all about creating spaces that look beautiful and tell stories. One of my favorite go-to choices is Farrow & Ball paints—I love their color palette, and because their paint is water-based and low-VOC formula, it helps keep your indoor air clean and fresh. This is a great way to create stunning walls while being kind to our environment and your family's health.
When working on home remodels, I always incorporate skylights. This is a great way to bring in lots of natural light and helps cut down on energy bills by reducing the need for artificial lighting!
Here's something close to my heart—in many furnishing projects, we find that clients have furniture pieces and artwork that have sentimental value and are sometimes even passed down through generations. By preserving pieces that hold personal value, we can create a design that not only looks beautiful and meaningful, but also promotes sustainability through reuse.
Courtney BattenPrincipal Interior Designer · Paige StudioI specialize in historic home renovations, and I tell my clients all the time that the most sustainable renovation is the one that you don't do. Construction waste is a huge problem, so I always try to reduce that by reusing whatever we can from the existing space.
For example, in a recent kitchen project, we had to completely change the layout, but we were able to salvage the existing granite and cabinet boxes to reuse in the laundry room and bathroom. It was a great way to save the clients money while keeping perfectly good construction materials from ending up in a landfill.
Danny NiemelaVice President & CFO · ArDan ConstructionSince 2007, my team and I have specialized in high-end renovations, bringing sustainability into every project without compromising quality. When it comes to eco-friendly choices, one decision stands out.
Reclaimed wood is a game-changer. It looks stunning, lasts for decades, and keeps perfectly good materials out of landfills. In a recent remodel, we sourced 120-year-old oak from a deconstructed barn and repurposed it into custom beams and shelving. The result? A one-of-a-kind space with history built into every detail. Using reclaimed materials saved 40% on lumber costs while reducing waste. No extra staining or treatments were needed, which cut down on chemicals inside the home. That is how sustainability works--it lowers impact and adds character at the same time.
Drew AngersOwner · Verdure Studio LLCAt Verdure Studio, sustainability isn't just a consideration; it's the foundation of our design philosophy. Every element of our custom houseplant displays is chosen with eco-consciousness in mind, ensuring that beauty and sustainability go hand in hand.
For planters, we prioritize materials with a lower environmental impact, selecting options made from recycled plastics or handcrafted by local artisans. This not only reduces waste but also supports small businesses and minimizes the carbon footprint associated with mass production.
Our soil is a proprietary, handcrafted blend designed to be both high-quality and low-waste. Unlike conventional bagged potting mixes, which come wrapped in plastic and often contain unsustainable ingredients, our mix generates less waste and fosters healthier plant growth.
We take sourcing seriously, too--our plants come from local nurseries whenever possible, cutting down on shipping emissions. Many are even propagated in-house from cuttings, further reducing environmental impact.
And for our high-end plant installations, we take sustainability a step further by using rainwater for irrigation--because even the way we water should reflect our commitment to the planet.
At Green Energy of San Antonio, our approach to incorporating sustainable and eco-friendly practices into interior design is centered around energy efficiency and long-term savings for homeowners. One of the most impactful choices we make is recommending high-performance, energy-efficient windows. Windows play a crucial role in regulating a home's temperature, and outdated, inefficient windows can lead to significant energy loss.
For example, one sustainable choice we've made is prioritizing low-E, argon gas-filled windows for our customers. These windows reflect heat in the summer and retain warmth in the winter, reducing the need for excessive heating and cooling. Not only does this lower energy consumption, but it also enhances indoor comfort and reduces utility costs. Additionally, we focus on materials that are durable and responsibly sourced, ensuring homeowners get products that last while reducing environmental impact.
Sustainability isn't just about using eco-friendly materials—it's about designing homes that work smarter, not harder, to maintain comfort and efficiency.
Sustainability is at the heart of everything I do in gardening and landscaping, and that extends to interior design choices as well. My approach is to prioritize natural, recycled, and low impact materials while ensuring the space remains functional and aesthetically pleasing. One example of a sustainable choice I've made was incorporating a living green wall into an indoor space for a client who wanted to improve air quality and add a natural element to their home. Instead of opting for synthetic decor, I designed a vertical garden using a carefully selected mix of low-maintenance, air purifying plants that thrive indoors. My horticultural expertise allowed me to choose species that require minimal water and are naturally resistant to pests, reducing the need for chemical treatments. I also installed a self watering system using reclaimed water to ensure the garden remained sustainable long-term. With over 15 years of experience in gardening and landscaping, I understand how to create functional green spaces that not only enhance the visual appeal of an interior but also improve indoor air quality and overall well-being. In this project, my knowledge of plant health, soil composition, and proper drainage ensured the living wall remained healthy without causing moisture issues inside the home. By using repurposed wood for the planter frames and organic, peat-free soil, I minimized environmental impact while maintaining a high-end, natural aesthetic. The result was a stunning and eco-friendly design that not only aligned with the client's sustainability goals but also brought a sense of tranquility into their living space.
Doreen NunezFounder & Creative Director · Mommy RheumSustainability is a big part of how I approach interior design, especially when it comes to material selection and air quality. With a BFA in Interior Architecture, I've learned a lot about building components and material off-gassing, so I'm always mindful of the chemicals in paints, finishes, and furniture. One of the easiest and most impactful choices I make is using low-VOC (volatile organic compound) paints. They significantly reduce indoor air pollution, which is better for both the environment and the health of anyone living in the space.
I've also prioritized natural materials like solid wood over composites with formaldehyde-based glues, ensuring that the spaces I design are not only beautiful but also healthier for long-term living.
Amrita VaswaniMarketing Coordinator · AchievableMy approach focuses on using renewable, recyclable, and energy-efficient materials to promote sustainability without compromising on design quality. In my most recent design project for a boutique retail store, I took a thoughtful approach to sustainability by selecting eco-friendly materials that aligned with the store's natural, earthy aesthetic. I chose locally sourced reclaimed wood for display shelves and fixtures, which added a unique, rustic charm while reducing the carbon footprint of sourcing new materials. The flooring was made from bamboo, a rapidly renewable resource, and I opted for recycled glass countertops that added both elegance and a sustainable touch. To further enhance energy efficiency, I installed motion sensor lighting throughout the store to minimize electricity waste, and strategically placed large windows to maximize natural light, reducing the need for artificial lighting during the day. I also partnered with local artisans to create custom, eco-friendly signage using biodegradable materials. One of the most rewarding parts of this project was seeing the positive reaction from customers who appreciated the store's commitment to sustainability, and the store owner reported lower energy costs within the first few months. This experience really reinforced my passion for creating beautiful spaces that are also kind to the planet.
As a business owner, I've found that sustainability isn't just a trend, it's a responsibility - much like maintaining your home and vehicles. We all know that neglecting regular upkeep leads to bigger problems down the road, and the same applies to our planet. My approach to eco-friendly interior design is similar to how I tackle car maintenance in my garage: I focus on durability, longevity, and minimizing waste. I'd rather invest in high-quality, long-lasting pieces than constantly replace cheap, trendy items that end up in a landfill - just like I'd invest in a durable car part over a flimsy, quick-fix solution.
For example, when I recently redesigned my office space, I chose to have custom-built desks and shelving made from reclaimed wood. This was a bit like restoring a classic car - taking something old and giving it new life, rather than contributing to the demand for new resources. It was more of an upfront investment than buying ready-made furniture, sure, but the quality and character of the reclaimed wood are unparalleled. Plus, knowing that those materials have a history and were diverted from the waste stream gives them a story that mass-produced furniture just can't match. Just like choosing a car that's built to last and repairable, I believe in choosing sustainable materials that can be repurposed or repaired down the line. It's about considering the whole life cycle - both in business and at home.
Amaury PonceBusiness Owner · Ponce Tree ServicesSustainability is at the core of my approach to tree care, and that extends to how I consider interior design choices as well. One key way I incorporate eco-friendly practices is by repurposing salvaged wood from tree removals into furniture or home decor. Instead of sending usable wood to a landfill, I work with local craftsmen to turn high-quality hardwoods like oak or walnut into custom tables, shelving, or accent pieces. This not only reduces waste but also gives homeowners a unique, natural piece with a story behind it. My years of experience as a certified arborist help me identify which trees have strong, durable wood that can be repurposed effectively, ensuring sustainability without compromising quality.
A great example of this was when we removed a large, storm-damaged pecan tree from a client's property. Instead of discarding it, I recommended milling the wood and drying it for use in their home renovation. The client loved the idea, and we transformed the wood into stunning kitchen countertops and floating shelves. Because of my background, I was able to guide them on how to properly cure and treat the wood for long-term durability. This approach not only saved them money on new materials but also kept the sentimental value of the tree within their home, making it a meaningful and environmentally responsible choice.
Adil AbbasFounder · AD+L Studio Inc.Sustainability, But Make It Chic. At Ad+L Studio, we don't just "incorporate" sustainability--we live it. Designing with the planet in mind isn't about sacrificing luxury; it's about redefining it. True elegance comes from thoughtful choices that merge style with responsibility. How We Do It: Buy Once, Buy Well - Instead of chasing trends, we invest in heirloom-quality pieces that age gracefully and never go out of style. Materials That Matter - We favor reclaimed wood, organic fabrics, and non-toxic finishes that feel as good as they look. Curate, Don't Consume - A space should tell a story, not just be filled with "stuff." We champion vintage finds, upcycled pieces, and artisanal craftsmanship. Nature as a Blueprint - Maximizing natural light, airflow, and biophilic elements to create spaces that breathe (literally). A Favorite Sustainable Move? We sourced a custom coffee table crafted from salvaged architectural marble--a material that would've been discarded. Now, it's the conversation piece of the home, radiating history and craftsmanship while saving waste from the landfill. Luxury isn't just about what you add to a space--it's also about what you honor and preserve.
Nikita SherbinaCo-Founder & CEO · AIScreenIncorporating sustainable and eco-friendly practices into my interior design choices is a priority for me. I start by selecting materials that are not only environmentally responsible but also durable. For example, when designing our office space, I chose reclaimed wood for furniture and flooring, which gave the space a rustic yet modern feel while reducing waste.
Also, I opted for energy-efficient lighting and incorporated plants to improve indoor air quality. I also work closely with suppliers who use low-VOC paints and sustainable fabrics. One of the most rewarding choices was installing energy-efficient windows, which have significantly reduced our energy consumption.
By prioritizing sustainability in these small but impactful ways, we've not only minimized our environmental footprint but also created a healthier, more inspiring workspace. It's about making thoughtful choices that align with both our values and our commitment to the planet.
Emily JohnsonWriter · Build Like NewMy Approach to Sustainable Interior Design Creating a beautiful space shouldn't come at the cost of the environment. My interior design approach focuses on eco-friendly, stylish, and sustainable choices that bring both elegance and responsibility into a home. 1. Upcycled & Reclaimed Furniture - Instead of buying mass-produced items, I restore and repurpose old furniture. A vintage wooden table, refreshed with low-VOC, non-toxic paint, can add both character and sustainability to a space. 2. Eco-Friendly Materials - I choose bamboo, reclaimed wood, and cork over plastic-based alternatives. These materials are not just sustainable but also add a warm, natural aesthetic to interiors. 3. Energy-Efficient Lighting & Smart Systems - LED lighting, smart thermostats, and energy-efficient appliances help reduce electricity consumption while maintaining a modern, functional space. 4. Sustainable Fabrics - I use organic cotton, hemp, and linen for upholstery, curtains, and bedding. Unlike synthetic fabrics, these are biodegradable and free from harmful chemicals. 5. Indoor Plants for Air Purification - Adding greenery like snake plants, peace lilies, and pothos not only enhances aesthetics but also improves air quality naturally. A sustainable home isn't just a trend--it's a commitment to mindful living. Every design choice shapes both our space and the planet's future.
Sustainability in interior design is about making thoughtful choices that both enhance beauty and minimize environmental impact. One example from my experience is selecting reclaimed wood for custom furniture pieces.
This adds a unique character to the design while reducing waste and supporting sustainable forestry practices. As an interior designer, it's important for me to consider both aesthetics and sustainability in order to create spaces that are not only beautiful but also responsible towards our planet. I believe that small choices like this can make a big impact in the long run, and I strive to incorporate eco-friendly practices into all aspects of my work at KetieStory.
Don SchneiderBrand President · Mighty Dog RoofingIn a recent home renovation, we incorporated skylights in areas like the kitchen and living room to maximize daylight and improve ventilation. Skylights do more than just bring in natural light; when placed strategically, they can lower energy consumption and improve indoor comfort.
One of the best things about skylights is their ability to maximize natural daylight, a practice known as daylight harvesting. By positioning skylights in the right spots—like central living areas or hallways—you can illuminate spaces throughout the day without relying on artificial lighting. This reduces electricity use and creates a brighter, more inviting environment without harsh overhead lights. The key is to avoid direct glare and excessive heat gain by selecting the right placement and glazing.
They can also act as a passive solar heating system. In colder months, sunlight streaming through the skylight can naturally warm a space, reducing the need for heaters. Choosing energy-efficient, insulated skylights ensures that heat stays inside during the night while still capturing the sun's warmth during the day.
Artisan-made recycled glass lighting serves as both functional element and statement piece. These fixtures transform ordinary spaces into extraordinary ones while significantly reducing environmental impact compared to imported options. They're often easily transferable to future homes, making them investments that move with you.
What makes these choices truly sustainable isn't just their environmental credentials but their lasting appeal. By focusing on timeless design, quality materials, and pieces with history and meaning, we create spaces that resist passing trends—spaces worth preserving rather than replacing. This approach honors both our planet's limited resources and the emotional connection we have with well-designed homes that support our well-being for years to come.
For more detailed guidance on eco-friendly interior design materials, readers can visit my recent blog article 'The Pembrook Guide to Eco-Friendly Interior Design Materials' where I explore these concepts in greater depth.
Sustainability in design isn't just about choosing the right materials--it's about thoughtful, intentional decisions at every level. At Verdure Studio, we're proving that eco-friendly choices can be as stunning as they are responsible.
