Sustainability in Interior Design

Sumer, Yagmur and Mottram, Judith and Thomas, Lisa (2025) Sustainability in Interior Design. PhD thesis, Lancaster University.

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Abstract

This research explores the evolving relationship between sustainability and interior design, placing particular emphasis on how textiles influence environmentally responsible practices in the UK. It responds to the growing demand for deeper integration of sustainability into design processes by examining how professionals navigate the often complex choices involved in selecting sustainable materials, especially fabrics. Through a combination of critical literature review with thematic analysis of interviews conducted with UK-based interior designers, the research looks closely at both internal motivations and external pressures. These include designers' own values, expectations from clients, existing regulatory structures, and market-driven constraints. The findings highlight a growing commitment among designers to environmental responsibility, tempered by persistent challenges such as limited access to reliable information, greenwashing, inconsistent certification standards, and cost-related constraints What stands out is that sustainability is not solely treated as a technical specification—it is also understood as a personal and ethical responsibility. Within this, textiles emerge as a vital yet often overlooked element, with sourcing, lifecycle considerations, and supply chain visibility playing a central role in how materials are chosen. The research offers contributions to academic discussion and real-world design practice by mapping out the main criteria behind textile selection, identifying systemic barriers and possibilities, and suggesting tangible strategies for educators, policymakers, and practitioners. As part of its practical output, the thesis presents a targeted sustainability toolkit alongside an online resource platform designed to improve awareness and knowledge across the sector. Taken together, these insights support a more critical and grounded approach to sustainable interior design that encourages long-term, ethical, and informed decision-making.