Exploring Sustainability at Decor + Design 2023

Recently, the Style Sourcebook team had the opportunity to attend the 19th edition of Australia’s premier interiors trade event, Decor + Design. With 2023’s theme being ‘Elevate’, the spotlight was on sustainability and consciously made designs. It was an incredible chance to engage with brands and retailers, explore exciting rising trends, and attend seminars with Australia’s most sought-after designers, all of who understand the importance of sustainability. 

We’ve put together a recap of the event, showcasing some of our highlights and delving into the upcoming trends you’re sure to love. 

Image credit: Decor + Design

Image credit: Decor + Design

We kicked off 2023 by diving into interior design trends that were worth watching. Balancing old and new pieces, natural connections, and soft, organic curves were highlighted, all with an underlining element of sustainability. As a trend that will always be in style, sustainability has begun appearing everywhere within the industry, and for a good reason. But what does it actually mean to consider the environment, and what does this look like within the interior design industry?

Image credit: Decor + Design

Sustainability in the Interior Design Industry

Sustainability within interior design stems so much further than just aesthetics (even though this is still a large and important part). Retailers and brands are now looking further into the journey and long-term impacts their pieces have on the environment and communities. Ethically sourced furniture and décor have fast become a favourite from both their sustainable benefits, and the role these elements play within the home. For example, pieces made from natural materials bring a sense of organicness into the home, which is a must for popular styles like Coastal or Wabi Sabi. As these styles grow in popularity, so too does the need for furniture and décor that is both stylish and eco-friendly.

This need for trendy, eco-friendly pieces was illustrated through the incredible exhibitors at the Decor + Design event, including brands such as Gus* from M+Co Living, Her Hands and Miss Amara.

Image credit: Decor + Design

Image credit: Decor + Design

Gus*

The Gus* range from M+CO Living highlights how functional and chic furniture can still be sustainable. Their collection is focused on the simplicity of everyday objects, which makes it feel modern yet warm. We also love the use of sustainable technology, such as natural vegan leather alternatives, and recycled materials, such as PET which is an ultra-soft fibre material made from recycled plastic, within their furniture.

Image credit: Decor + Design

Miss Amara

Miss Amara’s incredible collection includes a range of eco-friendly rugs which have been produced without harming the environment. These rugs are not only completely aesthetic but have been created through to use of recycled fibres, like PET, and are natural, meaning they don’t contain synthetics or chemicals. 

It was incredibly inspiring to see collections such as these, and even more. 

Image credit: Decor + Design

Green Design Hub

Located in the centre of Decor + Design was the Green Design Hub. The hub worked as a space to showcase innovative ways products were being reused to create a circular economy with a zero-waste strategy. With samples of recycled materials to gorgeous products and furniture, the interactive Green Design Hub was truly an experience. 

Seminars

We also had the honour of attending seminars from two talented individuals who have made game-changing moves in their respective industries. Brahman Perera, an award-winning Melbourne-based designer, delved into his impressions of interior design as ‘an engineer of atmosphere’. And Akira Isogawa, a renowned Sydney fashion designer known for his poetic aesthetic and beautiful textiles, discussed weaving together fragments of beauty. 

Image credit: Decor + Design

Brahman Perera

Interviewed by Lucy Feagins, Editor of The Design Files, Brahman intrigued the audience by touching on the timeless and organic approach he takes with his projects, like Entrecôte South Yarra, Henne Store, and Terra House. Highlighting the importance of self-expression through interiors, Brahman encourages a focus on creating natural layers within the home through both new and old pieces. He really illustrated how even when working with an interior designer, the most important component of your home is that it feels like you. 

And what makes a great atmosphere? Braham emphasised that a lens of hospitality informs the atmosphere. Think of your interiors as a sensory experience, like a warm, welcoming space for you, your friends and family.

Image credit: Decor + Design

Akira Isogawa

Taking a turn into an equally artistic and captivating industry, fashion designer Akira Isogawa, who has designed costumes for The Sydney Dance Company and the Australian Ballet, spoke about imperfect choices and the circular fashion world. Akira noted that in both fashion and interiors, pieces are being created not just for today, but for the future. His 2021 Fragmented collection tells a story of new life through simple offcuts that had been stored over the years. Akira passionately shared his thoughts on creating beauty using renewable aspects and left us with an incredible message to think about.

Image credit: Decor + Design

Exploring the sustainable innovations that are currently being featured throughout the interior design industry has been incredibly motivating for us here at Style Sourcebook. We’re so lucky to have been able to attend Decor + Design this year, from the exciting new trends to the encouraging seminars, we can’t wait for next year.

Image credit: Decor + Design