Sustainability in Design

Lobby that use sustainable materials, durable materials and existing elements

“Sustainability in design” — three words that get thrown around a lot in the interior design world. From furniture to architecture and everything in between, it’s become a marketing phrase that can feel flashy but hollow. As interior designers, we believe sustainability is personal. Everyone defines it differently, and this is our perspective on what sustainable interior design really means.

For us, sustainability goes beyond recycled materials and eco-friendly products. While those matter, true sustainability comes from mindset and intention. Are we designing a home that will stand the test of time, or one that will be gutted as soon as the next trend takes over? Are we choosing furniture that can become heirloom pieces, or items that will be tossed to the curb in a few years? Modern sustainable design is about creating interiors that are timeless, durable, and functional. Design that is bold, personal, and yet lasting.

Recently, we were asked to renovate a basement for clients who wanted a “sustainable design.” At first, we were excited to take on the project. But as we talked through their vision, we realized their goals weren’t attainable. They wanted to know every sourcing detail of every product — information that’s not always available in the design industry. They didn’t want any waste to end up in a landfill, which simply isn’t realistic when gutting a finished basement. They had also purchased a mix of inexpensive, mismatched cabinets for their laundry room that didn’t work together. Even if we forced them into place, the result would not have been cohesive or long-lasting. On top of that, they only planned to stay in the home for a few years.

Our advice to them was to focus on creating a more resale-friendly space with materials that leaned sustainable but also offered longevity. As much as we love personal expression, sometimes the most responsible choice is to design for durability and future homeowners. In the end, we decided not to move forward with the project, but it reinforced an important truth: sustainability isn’t just about “green” products. It’s about creating interior design that lasts.

One thing we'll always stand by is this — in America, we’ve become too focused on instant gratification and low cost, and not focused enough on timeless interiors. We tear out perfectly good kitchens and bathrooms to chase the latest design trend, only to replace them again in a few years. A more sustainable approach asks different questions: What is already here, and how can we enhance it? When replacing - what choices will still feel fresh and functional ten or twenty years from now?

That’s the essence of modern sustainable design. It’s not perfection, and it’s not about chasing labels. It’s about thoughtful, intentional interiors that honor what exists, reduce waste, and create lasting beauty. At Studio Fifth Sunday, that’s what we strive to bring to every project — bold interior design that feels personal today and timeless tomorrow.

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