Where do I buy "green furniture"?
Many clients ask this question, both residential and commercial.. here are a few tips for purchasing furniture in a sustainable way;
- plan your room - spend some time planning the room you want furnished, using exact measurements and incorporating pieces you want to keep
- reuse - look around! reuse existing furniture where possible, not only is it cheaper but already reflects your style..
- recycle - spend some time upgrading old pieces with a new coat of paint or updated joinery handles. Sand back old paint varnish and refresh upholstered items
- dont be afraid to ask! your furniture retailer who supplies sustainable product will be happy to share their knowledge. Often they are local manufacturers that are using recycled timbers, FSC rated timbers or sustainable sources such as bamboo- the oldest green product in the world
- For inspiration in Sydney try
- buy smart - if you are staring afresh, use your head. Look at materials, manufacture and warranties.
- materials: if the product is timber is it from a sustainable source? example would be FSC rated, recycled timber or bamboo
- manufacture: is it made locally? if so, there is less carbon used to transport the furniture to your door
- warranty: does it have one? a good warranty is 10 years.. you don't want to have to replace your furniture in two or three years time
- does the supplier have a buyback scheme?
- useful links
- the green building council provides guidelines on sustainable architecture and interior fitouts
- the good environmental choice label rates products in the marketplace based on sustainable credentials
- ecospecifier provides information on furniture, products and materials
- greenpages is a directory of sustainable goods and services Australia wide
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