The Home Barn Guide to Sustainable Interiors

Sustainability. It’s the word of the moment, and rightly so. From making more conscious decisions about the clothes we wear and the food we eat, to eschewing plastic and swapping the car for a bike, we all know that we need to make better choices for the sake of the environment. The same goes for the things we buy for our homes.

When it comes to furniture, choosing antique or vintage pieces is about the most sustainable choice you can make. Here at Home Barn, we have always celebrated homewares which have had a life before they found their way to our Buckinghamshire shop. The brilliant thing about buying antique furniture is that nothing needs to be produced – a sure-fire way of reducing your carbon footprint.

Then there’s the fact that you’ll also be buying something truly unique, rather than mass-produced in a far-away factory. Really, who wants to have another generic item which can be seen in houses up and down the land? Antique or vintage pieces will add to the charm of your home, making it feel lived-in and loved, and they’re bound to be more of a conversation starter than something from the high street.

Our dining tables are all made from reclaimed timbers, which give them a wonderfully rustic look and means that you never have to be precious about the inevitable spills and knocks which will come over the years. Much of our glassware is made from recycled glass, and for special meals our vintage linen table runners add a relaxed sense of occasion.

Textiles add a lovely element of texture and warmth to any room and, old or new, our selection of cushions and vintage kilim rugs are always made from natural materials, which are not only better for the environment but also look and feel wonderful too.

When it comes to decoration, think beyond contemporary prints and posters. From vintage signs and ceramics to sea fans and sun-bleached shutters, adding decorative antiques to your home really adds interest, which can be especially helpful in modern or new-build homes. Even domestic items like vintage washboards and garden sieves look stylish when grouped in a considered way. It’s all about breathing new life into the old, so that it can continue to bring joy for years to come.

Hope you have enjoyed reading our The Home Barn Guide to Sustainable Interiors blog post. If you are looking for more daily inspiration follow our Instagram page.

Sarah and Sally x