5 Responsible Interior Brands

The fashion world has had its reckoning. “Fast fashion” is now a phrase we all know, tied to overproduction, waste and worker exploitation. But what about interiors? From sofas and ceramics to rugs and renovation cycles, the interior industry is a quieter giant, worth an estimated USD 134 billion globally in 2023, compared to fashion’s staggering USD 1.7 trillion. Smaller, yes, but hardly insignificant. And like fashion, it has an urgent need to reinvent itself.

The Problem With Constant Change

Each year, design headlines push new palettes, new materials, new silhouettes for our homes. The result? A constant cycle of renovations, discarded furniture, and forgotten trends. Beyond the cost to consumers, the environmental footprint is massive: toxic glues and foams, deforestation for wood, carbon emissions from global transport. Add to that the invisible story of workers, often underpaid, rarely acknowledged, and the need for systemic change becomes clear.

Toward a New Design Ethos

Just as fashion is learning to embrace secondhand, interiors must shift focus from trend-chasing to need-making. That means designing spaces around functionality, creativity, and timeless beauty rather than this season’s “it-sofa.” It means finding value in what already exists—refurbishing, upcycling, mixing old with new. And it means celebrating cultural craft and artisan voices, rather than treating décor as disposable.

The Rise of Circular Interiors

Circularity is more than a buzzword; it’s the future. Secondhand furniture markets are growing fast, vintage design is becoming a collector’s arena, and brands that embrace longevity are finding loyal audiences. The best interiors are not just circular; they can also be responsible in ways that empower communities, preserve culture, and set new standards for fair trade.

Five Brands Leading the Way

We’ve hand-picked five labels proving that interiors can be ethical, creative, and deeply desirable.

MADE51
Global, founded by UNHCR
A design initiative bringing refugee artisans into the global marketplace. Every product is handmade, rooted in tradition, and offers livelihoods in vulnerable contexts.

Folkdays
Germany, 2013
With a fair-trade philosophy, Folkdays collaborates with artisans worldwide. Their pieces combine traditional craft with contemporary design, creating interiors that feel timeless rather than trendy.

Gunia Project
Ukraine, 2017
This brand showcases Ukrainian cultural heritage through ceramics, glassware, and textiles. Each collection is steeped in story, elevating craft to art while supporting local artisans.

Caralarga
Mexico, 2014
Based in Querétaro, Caralarga transforms raw cotton and reclaimed materials into sculptural textiles and jewellery. Their practice highlights the beauty of imperfections and the strength of hand-craft.

Artijaan
Ghana, 2020
Focusing on local craft and contemporary design, Artijaan works with skilled artisans to create pieces that bridge heritage and modern living. Ethical sourcing and respect for tradition define their approach.

A Call for Conscious Interiors

The interiors sector may not yet dominate sustainability headlines the way fashion does (or did a few years ago), but its impact is just as tangible. Moving away from endless renovations toward conscious consumption, secondhand treasure-hunting, and supporting responsible brands is not only stylish, it’s essential. Producers, the industry and policy-makers play the most important role, but you can still be a part of the change. After all, our homes are more than just spaces to decorate; they are reflections of the world we want to build.