November 1 was World Vegan Day, and while most of us are not vegans (and many not even vegetarians) none of us want to hurt animals and the environment. So let’s take the pledge to go beyond an animal-friendly diet for a holistically sustainable life! A deeper look into your living space and living habits reveals the aspects of your life that cause serious harm to animals and their habitats, in one way or the other. When it comes to building your own habitat, therefore, commit to creating a more nature-friendly home!

• Say goodbye to leather!

We’re not asking you to throw away all your existing leather and suede furniture (goodness, what a waste!) but what you can do is make it the last animal skin you buy! If you’ve already bought a new leather couch, for instance, make full use of it and extend its life with care, the right cleaning materials, and even patchwork once the material eventually starts to fray. But if you are looking to buy new furniture or change the upholstery on an existing piece, go for more environment-friendly fabrics like cotton or linen. They are not only ethical but also look ultra-chic – and they’re more comfortable in the summers!

• Wool and Silks are also a no-no!

While leathers are often used for larger pieces like sofas and wing chairs, remember to avoid all other materials
derived from animals, too, like wool and silk. So if you’re planning on buying a silk tapestry or adding woollen throws
to your living room or a rug in the bedroom, you might want to reconsider. You can replace a woolen throw with acrylic ones which are lighter, softer and resistant to moths and chemicals. These are more ethical, as they’re derived from cotton or jute, and they cost much less! 

• Do not throw away!

If you are bored with an old piece of furniture or think it’s damaged – say, a hinge has come undone or a leg is broken – don’t throw it away! Old furniture is an excellent way to add character to any space. What you can change is where it was kept and how it is used. For example, take an old chair, get it freshly polished, add a new cushion and place it in a corner. This gives the old piece a new feel! 

• A little paint can go a long way!

Painting your old furniture in fun, quirky colours can breathe new life into old pieces! Get that old cabinet out and get painting. If done right, old cabinets – from your granddad’s workplace or your aunt’s attic – have the potential to act as statement pieces in your living rooms. Get more storage space and a lot of money – while making the planet a healthier place.

• Old windows and doors are interior gold! 

Old windows and doors are usually made out of high-quality solid wood, the likes of which are not readily available these days… especially when you’re on the lookout for budget plans. If you have old doors and windows from a bungalow you’re refurbishing, even doors and windows that are falling apart, you can very easily and efficiently upcycle them. Use the plain teak, pine or rosewood and turn them into rustic-styled tables and cabinet doors! And if you happen to have traditional doors with carving or painting details, you’re blessed! Hold onto those beauties! They can definitely find a home in more contemporary settings and you can easily make them the centrepieces of your furnishings. Use them as room dividers or simply put them on the ceiling and light them up from behind – your false ceiling is done! The ideas are endless.

Having an ethical, sustainable home does not mean having a dull or drab home! Just let your imagination take the reins. Create a space that’s as stylish as it is eco-conscious!

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