• 21% of Brits are willing to invest in products that favour sustainability 
• Head of Product and Display at Barker and Stonehouse, Lena Gierasinska shares 6 eco-conscious design tips 

With 21% of Brits willing to invest in products that favour sustainability, it’s clear that eco-conscious living is becoming more of a priority for homeowners in the UK. 

While a total remodel might be a little unrealistic, there are plenty of environmentally friendly interior design choices that can be easily implemented into the home, from opting for reclaimed furniture to choosing evergreen décor, eco-conscious living doesn’t have to be overcomplicated.  

With this in mind, Head of Product and Display at Barker and Stonehouse, Lena Gierasinska, shares her top tips for a home that encourages eco-friendly living, working with the environment and not against it.  

1. Work with your natural lighting 

Lena says, “Natural light is one of the most underused design tools. Maximise it by keeping window areas clear of bulky furniture, using sheer curtains, and placing mirrors opposite windows to reflect brightness around the room.  

“Not only does this reduce your reliance on artificial lighting, but it also creates a more uplifting, spacious feel in your home”, Lena adds.  

“Think about using natural light strategically, wherever possible. For example, if you have a desk or office space that you use frequently throughout the week, aim to position it so you reap the benefits of natural light. This way, you won’t be relying on artificial lighting, using up valuable energy”, says Lena.  

2. Invest in reclaimed or sustainably made furniture 

“Choosing furniture made from reclaimed wood or ethically sourced materials is a brilliant way to lower your environmental impact. These pieces often carry unique character, and their quality tends to outlast mass-produced alternatives. Look for FSC-certified wood, this is a certification that ensures responsible manufacturing”, explains Lena.  

Lena adds, “As well as an eco-conscious design choice, reclaimed wood is stylistically timeless. Its weathered texture, natural imperfections and rich patina bring depth and authenticity to interiors, whether you favour classic charm or Scandi minimalism. It’s a material that ages beautifully and never goes out of style.” 

“If your budget allows for it, try to live by the ‘buy better, buy once’ mantra”, says Lena. “Investing in higher-quality furniture where possible can make a real difference over time. Well-crafted items tend to last longer, age beautifully, and reduce the need for frequent replacements, helping both your home and the planet in the long run”, she adds. 

3. Use natural textiles 

Lena says, “Incorporate organic cotton, wool, or linen for soft furnishings like cushions, curtains, and rugs. These materials are breathable, biodegradable, and often dyed with fewer chemicals, making them gentler on both your skin and the planet. Textiles are also a subtle way to add softness and layers to a space without compromising on sustainability.” 

She adds, “Natural textiles also align with a slower, more considered approach to interiors. Unlike synthetic materials or seasonal prints that come and go with passing trends, these fabrics offer enduring appeal and an elegance that outlasts fleeting trends.” 

“If you enjoy leaning into seasonal trends, natural textiles are also versatile and often appear as part of these fast-moving trends, for example in Rococo Revival, which embraces rich textures, layered fabrics and ornate detailing”, explains Lena.  

“You can interpret this trend sustainably by choosing natural materials like linen or organic cotton in soft pastel tones. Pair them with antique-inspired accessories or gently curved furniture to nod to the trend without compromising on longevity or eco values. This way, your space feels current but remains timeless and considered beneath the surface”, says Lena 

4. Declutter with purpose 

Lena says, “It’s often hard to declutter because possessions are tied to memories, perceived value, or a sense of security. Fear of regret or guilt over waste can also create resistance.  

“Breaking the process into small, manageable chunks and setting clear goals can make it less overwhelming. Decluttering with purpose is all about creating an intentional and fulfilling home environment.” 

Lena adds, “A clutter-free home doesn’t have to mean throwing everything away. Rehome what you no longer need by donating, selling, or upcycling. Clever storage solutions like under-bed drawers or woven baskets keep daily essentials tidy while adding texture to your décor. It’s about keeping what serves you and letting the rest move on sustainably.” 

5. Prioritise furniture health 

Lena explains, “Living sustainably isn’t just about making sustainable purchases, it encompasses a range of behaviours, including how you care for your furniture and how you live in your home. 

Ensuring furniture health and longevity is a great step towards sustainable living, Lena explains, “Understanding how to care for the furniture in your home properly, like using coasters on wooden tables, rotating cushions regularly, and follow fabric cleaning instructions, are all small tasks that contribute to wider, more positive impact on the environment. 

Lena adds, “Small maintenance habits not only preserve your furniture’s beauty but also reduce the need to replace items prematurely, which is both eco-friendly and cost-effective.” 

6. Choose decor that works all year round 

Lena says “Opt for timeless, adaptable pieces of decor rather than overly seasonal ones. Think neutral-toned throws, classic ceramics, or nature-inspired artwork that feels appropriate whether it’s winter or summer. This reduces the temptation to redecorate with each season and encourages a more mindful, long-term approach to styling your space.” 

“Decorative bowls are a timeless styling staple”, Lena adds. “They transition effortlessly through the seasons, making them a versatile investment for any room. Whether filled with pine cones in winter, citrus fruits in summer, or left empty to showcase their form, they add instant texture and interest to a space all year round”, she says.  

7. Try a reupholstering project 

“When choosing upholstered furniture, it’s wise to prioritise durability over fast fashion. Look for pieces with solid hardwood frames and high-resilience cushions, as these are built to last for decades if properly cared for”, Lena explains. 

“Opt for upholstery fabrics made from natural or recycled fibres, these are not only more sustainable but also tend to age beautifully over time”, Lena adds.  

Reupholstering a vintage or inherited pieces is another great step towards eco-conscious living, Lena says, “It’s a brilliant way to update well-made furniture that still has plenty of life in it, while creating something unique and personal. Whether you work with a skilled upholsterer or take on a DIY project, reupholstering allows you to reduce waste, celebrate craftsmanship, and design more thoughtfully for the long term.” 

Find out more sustainability at Barker and Stonehouse here: https://www.barkerandstonehouse.co.uk/sustainability