Changing the design industry – the trends we actually need

In previous articles, I’ve explored the journey of sustainability, from the practice of conserving ecological balance to its more contemporary and nuanced meaning, which considers the interconnectivity of everything. This ‘systems thinking’ approach to sustainability is increasingly shaping the interior design industry, as consumers, designers, and manufacturers emphasise practices and materials that consider both people and the natural world. I’m sometimes asked what trends I think are gaining momentum in the design sphere, and it’s gratifying to be able to say many of them are practices that Sibley Grove adopted from the studio’s inception, nearly 15 years ago.

Adoption of circular design principles

One of the most significant trends in sustainable interior design is the shift towards circular design, which aims to reduce waste by creating closed-loop systems where materials and products are reused or recycled. Our own Design for Disassembly ethos guides everything we do, designing with longevity and reusability in mind; creating fixtures and fittings that can be disassembled, repaired or repurposed instead of discarded. Second-hand furniture, vintage pieces and reclaimed materials continue to gain popularity, both for their environmental benefits and the unique aesthetic they offer.

Lower impact materials

The use of environmentally friendly materials will continue to rise. Designers will increasingly opt for materials like bamboo, cork and FSC-certified wood, which if sourced and processed responsibly, have a much lower carbon footprint. Low-impact alternatives like regenerated polymers, eco-friendly composites and natural fibres such as hemp, jute and organic cotton are becoming more common place. Additionally, advancements in material science are expected to yield new sustainable options, such as mycelium-based products or algae-based textiles, which will further diversify the palette of green materials available to designers.

Incorporating biophilic design

It's not a method that we necessarily deploy in our current projects, but biophilic design, which integrates natural elements into the built environment to enhance well-being and reduce stress, will continue to grow in popularity. Incorporating greenery, water features, natural light and organic shapes into interior spaces fosters a connection to nature, which has been proven to support human health. Plants, living walls and natural textures like stone, wood and clay are becoming essential elements in sustainable design.

Thinking about how energy is used

Sustainability in interior design also extends to energy efficiency. Over the next decade, expect to see more emphasis on designing interiors that minimise energy consumption using smart technologies, energy-efficient appliances and sustainable lighting systems. LED lighting, motion sensors and smart thermostats will be integral to reducing energy use in retail and hospitality spaces as well as home. Additionally, passive design techniques, such as optimising natural ventilation, daylighting and thermal massing, will help reduce energy needs.

Avoiding chemicals and toxins

People are becoming increasingly aware of their environment and its impact on their health. The demand for non-toxic materials and low-VOC (volatile organic compound) paints, adhesives and finishes will grow. Customers will seek out products that contribute to healthier indoor environments, avoiding chemicals and toxins that off-gas into the air. This trend will lead to more sustainable product development as companies respond to the rising demand for healthier, non-toxic options.

Thinking and sourcing locally

Supporting local artisans and sourcing products with a low carbon footprint will become a core principle of sustainable design. We’ve become so used to sourcing materials from across the globe, that this very simple and super effective sustainable design principle seems to have been lost. But as our awareness of how materials are sourced and by whom, the idea that we can get what we need from local artisans and makers is beginning to make a comeback. Designers and clients alike will seek out locally made, handcrafted items that reduce transportation emissions and promote regional economies. This trend encourages a shift away from mass-produced goods, favouring craftsmanship and quality, over quantity.

As a studio, we steer away from following ‘trends’, preferring to take guidance and inspiration from the building’s architecture and cultural setting, both past and present. That said, there are some current trends in sustainable design that will hopefully make the much needed transition to ‘design norms’.