Sustainable Interior Design: Creating Beautiful, Responsible Spaces
At Ducy Design, we believe that luxury and sustainability can – and should – go hand in hand. True elegance isn’t about fleeting trends; it’s about creating spaces that are refined, timeless, and built to last. Sustainable interior design allows us to craft interiors that both exude sophistication and respect the environment. From selecting high-quality, enduring materials to incorporating energy-efficient solutions, we design with beauty and responsibility in mind.
What is Sustainable Interior Design?
Sustainable interior design is a holistic approach to creating aesthetically pleasing and environmentally responsible spaces. It involves selecting materials, fixtures, and design elements that reduce waste, lower carbon footprints, and promote longevity. The goal is to create interiors that stand the test of time, both in durability and style, while minimizing their impact on the planet. Kristen Hennie, founder of Ducy Design, emphasizes the importance of sustainability in design:
“True sustainability in design isn’t just about using eco-friendly materials – it’s about curating spaces with intention, selecting quality pieces that endure, and designing with longevity in mind.”
Why Sustainable Design Matters
The interior design industry significantly contributes to global waste and carbon emissions. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the U.S. generated 600 million tons of construction and demolition debris in 2018, more than twice the amount of municipal solid waste. By fully embracing sustainable interior design practices at Ducy Design, we can do our part to reduce this waste and create homes that support a healthier environment.
While sourcing materials and fixtures for an upcoming design project, Designers, Kristen Hennie and Rachel Whitman, discovered these reclaimed moulding and trim pieces from Terminal Tower at Cleveland Art located in Chagrin Falls
Choosing Sustainable Interior Design Materials & Fixtures
One of the most impactful ways to embrace sustainability in interior design is through material and fixture selection. The right choices can prevent unnecessary waste, reduce environmental impact, and contribute to a home’s long-term value.
Project: Grounding Elegance — This laundry room renovation focused on refreshing the space while minimizing demolition and waste. Preserving the charm of the existing cabinetry, Designer, Kristen Hennie, updated the space with fresh paint, timeless fixtures, and a classic checkered tile
Invest in High-Quality, Long-Lasting Materials
Choosing well-made, durable materials helps avoid the cycle of frequent replacements and renovations. For example, plumbing fixtures with metal internal components purchased from certified dealers will last significantly longer than their cheaper counterparts with plastic interiors found in big-box stores. While they may come with a higher price tag upfront, they offer greater longevity and performance, reducing the need for replacements and landfill waste.
Timeless Design Over Trend-Driven Choices
Trends come and go, but great design endures. At Ducy Design, we prioritize timeless interiors that won’t feel outdated in just a few years. While it’s fun to embrace trends, we recommend incorporating them in easily changeable decor elements, such as accessories and styling pieces, rather than in foundational design elements that would require significant renovations to replace.
Opt for Renewable, Recyclable, and Biodegradable Materials
Using materials that can be renewed, recycled, or biodegraded at the end of their lifecycle is key to reducing waste. Some companies even offer programs to collect their products at the end of their use and either renew or dispose of them responsibly. If you’re interested in these programs, carpet, tile, and luxury vinyl tile (LVT) manufacturing companies often lead the way in sustainability initiatives.
Project: Westwood Country Club installed with Interface LVT, a company dedicated to being carbon negative by 2040.
Locally Sourced Materials
Materials sourced locally have a significantly lower carbon footprint than those imported from across the world. Stone, lumber, and furniture produced in the U.S. help reduce emissions from transportation while supporting local businesses.
For example, in a recent Ducy Design project, Grounding Elegance, we used a stunning USA-sourced Colorado Calacatta marble for a fireplace surround. Many luxury stones are imported from Italy, Turkey, and Greece, but we were thrilled to incorporate a locally sourced material while working with Castelli Marble for fabrication. Thoughtful material choices like this allow us to blend luxury with sustainability.
Project: Grounding Elegance with a USA-sourced Colorado Calacatta marble fireplace surround fabricated by Castelli Marble
Energy-Efficient Products & Natural Light
Incorporating energy-efficient products and design techniques can significantly reduce a home’s energy consumption. LED lighting, solar design principles, and proper insulation help maintain temperature control while reducing energy costs. Simple measures such as caulking and weather stripping around windows and doors further enhance a home’s efficiency.
Additionally, maximizing natural light in a space not only reduces energy usage but also offers mental and emotional benefits. Studies show that exposure to natural light can help combat seasonal depression and improve overall well-being.
Project: A Family Manor maximizing natural light throughout the home with views of the home’s 10-acre wooded property
The Cost-Benefit Analysis of Sustainable Interior Design
While some sustainable choices may require a higher initial investment, they often lead to long-term savings. High-quality, durable materials and locally sourced products may come with a higher price tag, but they offer better longevity and performance, reducing the need for costly replacements.
In a world where ‘fast fashion’ dominates the clothing industry, the interior design world is seeing a similar trend with cheaply made, disposable furnishings and decor. At Ducy Design, we advocate against this ‘fast furniture’ mentality. Kristen explains, “Why choose quality over trends? Because a well-designed home shouldn’t need a complete refresh every five years. Instead, it should evolve with you, using durable, responsible materials that reduce waste and elevate your space.” We encourage our clients to invest in timeless, high-quality selections that will stand the test of time.
Designing a Sustainable Future
Sustainable interior design isn’t just about creating beautiful spaces – it’s about making thoughtful decisions that benefit both homeowners and the environment. By prioritizing durable materials, locally sourced options, and energy-efficient solutions, we can design homes that are as responsible as they are stunning.
At Ducy Design, we’re committed to helping clients achieve their dream spaces without compromising on sustainability. Whether you’re embarking on a full renovation or a small update, let’s work together to create interiors that last a lifetime, both in style and in sustainability.
Founder and Principal Designer, Kristen Hennie, showcasing her new project, Grounding Elegance with timeless design features and locally sourced materials