How to Incorporate Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Materials
Oct 20, 2025
What does it truly mean to design a home sustainably? We find ourselves constantly asking (and re-asking) this very question. As champions of unconventional thinking in the world of interior design, we believe that sourcing sustainable materials is as much about challenging the status quo as it is about reducing our ecological footprint. Whether you're a homeowner seeking to reduce your environmental impact or a curious design enthusiast, exploring sustainable materials is a journey that is both rewarding and full of surprises.
In this article, we'll delve into sustainable and eco-friendly materials: what defines them, the benefits and challenges of using them, how to responsibly source them, and much more. Why does it matter? Because the materials you choose are the foundation of a healthy, sustainable home, both in style and in substance. If you’d like to see how our philosophy translates into beautiful spaces, browse our interior design services page.
What Are Sustainable Materials?
Sustainable materials are defined by their ability to minimize negative environmental impact throughout their lifecycle, starting from extraction, through manufacturing, use, and finally disposal or recycling. They are created and sourced in ways that preserve natural resources, reduce waste, and maintain ethical labor practices.
But how do you recognize a truly sustainable material? Look for:
Low toxicity and minimal off-gassing, using Declare Red-List Free or Red-List Approved as a reference.
Responsible sourcing, such as FSC®-certified wood (Forestry Stewardship Council).
Recycled, upcycled, or quickly renewable components (think bamboo, cork, or reclaimed wood).
Transparency in supply chain and production practices.
Pros of Sustainable Materials
Eco-friendliness: Reduced carbon footprint and waste during production.
Healthier choices: Lower VOCs and allergens, improving indoor air quality (equaling a healthier home for you and your family).
Durable and timeless: Many sustainable materials (reclaimed wood, etc.) wear beautifully over time forming a much-desired patina.
Ethical supply chains: Guarantees for fair labor and responsible sourcing.
Design versatility: Our experience has shown, time and again, that these materials lend themselves to both traditional and avant-garde interiors.
Cons of Sustainable Materials
Initial cost: Prices can be higher but are falling steadily as demand and production increase.
Availability: Certain materials (like locally reclaimed woods) can be hard to source without industry connections.
Performance limits: Some new materials may have limitations in durability or aesthetic options.
Many of these obstacles are fading. We’ve leveraged our network in the US and France to access unique suppliers and innovative products, making sustainable design more achievable for our clients.
Types of Sustainable Materials
When the word “sustainability” comes up in design, it’s easy to imagine beige rooms filled exclusively with hemp and recycled cardboard. Reality, thankfully, is far more vibrant! Here’s a snapshot of materials we’ve incorporated, each with its own story and aesthetic flair:
Reclaimed wood: Salvaged from old structures, offering warmth and character.
Bamboo: Rapidly renewable, strong, and versatile for flooring, furniture, or wall panels.
Cork: Harvested without harming trees, a sound-absorbing and resilient material.
Recycled metal and glass: Infused into everything from countertops to decorative screens.
Natural fibers: Organic cotton, linen, jute, and hemp for textiles and soft furnishings.
Non-toxic paints and finishes: Low or zero-VOC products ensuring better air quality.
Innovative options: Mushroom mycelium panels and bio-based composites, fresh arrivals in the design world that excite our team.
We've found that mixing these materials often achieves the best results for both style and sustainability.
Sustainable Materials by Area of the Home
Every space in your home presents unique opportunities for sustainable design. Here’s how MAREDI Design tailors solutions for different rooms:
Living Room
Shelving & tables: Reclaimed wood or recycled metal.
Rugs: Organic wool or natural fiber (jute, hemp).
Paint: Zero-VOC finishes for healthy air.
Kitchen
Cabinetry: FSC®-certified wood or bamboo.
Countertops: Recycled glass, recycled quartz, or responsibly sourced stone.
Backsplash: Recycled tile or glass or no backsplash.
Bedroom
Bedding & curtains: Organic cotton or linen.
Flooring: Engineered bamboo, cork, or hardwood from certified forests.
Accent walls: Natural clay plaster for a tactile, beautiful finish.
Bathroom
Towels & mats: Organic cotton, bamboo, or recycled PET fibers.
Surfaces: Recycled glass tiles, natural ceramic tiles, non-toxic sealers.
Office
Desks: Upcycled wood, vintage pieces, or metal.
Seating: Natural latex foam, bio-based foam, and organic textiles.
We constantly experiment, finding the materials that not only look good but feel right and stand the test of time.
How to Source Sustainable Materials Responsibly
Sourcing is half the battle. We recommend the following steps:
Look for certifications: FSC® (Forestry Stewardship Council), GREENGUARD, Cradle to Cradle, OEKO-TEX®, Declare all signal responsible practices.
Ask about supply chain transparency: Reputable suppliers will provide environmental impact data and sourcing information.
Prioritize local shops: In both France and the US, we have favorite suppliers who share our values — a shout out to Biosfaire in Angers & Nantes and Rebuilding Exchange in Chicago.
Consider materials’ full lifecycle impact: Ask, "What happens at the end of its use?" or reference a brands’ Life Cycle Assessment (LCA).
We routinely vet suppliers ourselves, ensuring our clients don’t have to navigate greenwashing claims alone.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
A surprising number of “natural” products aren’t truly sustainable. Here are pitfalls to be wary of:
Assuming 'natural' means sustainable: For example, natural stone may be beautiful but mining can be ecologically damaging.
Ignoring manufacturing processes: Some recycled products use energy-intensive processes that offset their benefits.
Overlooking disposal impact: Biodegradable doesn’t always mean harmless, so look for products designed to be recycled or composted.
As designers, we always dig deeper, investigating the full production lifecycle before recommending a material.
Tips for Getting Started on a Budget
It’s a myth that sustainability is only for those with large budgets. Here’s how to dip a toe in:
Start small: Swap traditional rugs for natural fiber versions, or choose non-toxic paints for your next project.
Mix old and new: Combine thrifted or vintage pieces with sustainably sourced accents.
Prioritize impact: Focus your budget on high-impact areas, like flooring or wall finishes.
Explore new solutions: Emerging materials like bio-based linoleum or recycled fabrics are affordable and beautiful.
Even the smallest switches in materials can lead to a healthier, more sustainable home, one step at a time.
Conclusion
Embracing sustainable and eco-friendly materials is a journey and not just a binary switch. At MAREDI Design, we combine deep experience and an adventurous eye to help clients navigate this exciting new world, whether in France or the US. The rewards go beyond aesthetics: healthier homes, lower footprints, and a greater sense of responsibility to our planet.
If you’re ready to see how sustainability can be woven into your next project, discover our interior design services and join us in making thoughtful, beautiful spaces, one material at a time.
