Re-purpose, Re-use, Recycle

Does living a sustainable life mean having to sacrifice style?

We live in world of ‘single use’ consumerism. We hear phrases like ‘global warming’, ‘climate change’ and ‘inequality’ in the news and media almost daily. But sometimes it’s hard for us to see how we can make a positive change in our own homes. So, for the most part we do what we can, put our recycling bins out every week and hope for the best.

Purchasing ethically doesn’t have to mean trawling the internet for hours looking for high end sustainable brands but purchasing with a conscience, buying once and buying well. Seeking out quality products designed to last over the longer term.

We recently attended the Décor + Design 17 exhibition in Melbourne and were excited to see that the design industry is putting more thought and effort into our impact on the natural world. Industry experts are promoting organic materials and sustainable or ‘green’ interiors. There is an increase in the use of regenerative resources like bamboo and hemp, and beautifully designed pieces made entirely from waste product. We saw new designers leading the charge, by finding ways to reduce the impact we are having on our environment and personally we at BedNest think sustainability is Hot!!

Stylish Rug The stylish Adelphi rug is constructed from 25% leather, 25% Cotton Denim and 50% Jute !!

The Adelphi rug by MOS International is made from 100% recycled materials. Who would have thought those dirty old jeans you can’t bear to part with could actually have a higher purpose?

Reclaimed and recycled furniture Reclaimed and recycled materials delivering the perfect industrial vibe.

An image of a few pieces from The Homes Solutions Collection by d-bodhi. “A base of reclaimed teak wood and iron are combined with recycled materials such as cast-iron pipes, vehicle license plates, hammerheads, rubber tires and paper.”

Stylish recycled rug Sugarcane Trading Co's Diya rug is made from 100% upcycled cotton.

Handwoven by families in India, the cotton fabric used in the construction of the rug is from clothing offcuts – textile waste that would have ended up in a landfill. Every rug made by Sugarcane Trading Co is handmade, unique and simply beautiful.

The trend we are seeing develop here is about stepping away from the fast pace of everyday modern life, encouraging us to feel more connected with nature, reminding us of a time when life was simpler. Next time you’re considering updating your home décor, think of how you could incorporate existing pieces to create a new look. Facebook Marketplace and thrift stores are full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered as the perfect addition to your space, mixing old with new finds and reborn treasures.

Purchasing ethically doesn’t mean trawling the internet for hours looking for high end sustainable brands but purchasing with a conscience, buying once and buying well. Seeking out quality products designed to last over the longer term.

Article feature image and styling by @tanikablair_design for Sugarcane Trading Co. Their Leela rug is made from 100% upcycled denim and cotton.