Conserving natural resources

Following on from part one, where we looked at the intimate connection we forge with our furniture, we now share our thoughts on how our basic choices effect positive change on a much wider scale. We should start by saying that well-managed solid natural materials provide an endless resource. The longer we can keep them in circulation before they're recycled or biodegraded, the more carbon will remain locked up, and the less furniture we will have to produce.

One practical approach is to intervene less with materials in their natural form. The less we intervene, the less energy we use, and the more usable the material remains for future uses. During the 19th century, the Victorians made a huge amount of furniture by cobbling together elements from previous periods – we really didn't invent upcycling!

It also almost goes without saying that the way we choose to construct things has a direct impact on their longevity. Fewer, bigger, well-chosen joints will last longer than numerous overworked ones and are easier to restore in the future. Unlike their veneered or sprayed cousins (that make up the vast majority of furniture items on sale) which invariably and quickly end up in landfill because they become scruffy and aren't worth restoring, pieces made in solid natural materials are infinitely restorable. It's a topic dear to our hearts and one we'll write about soon.