Hey! I’m Alex. Creating thoughtful, eco-conscious spaces isn’t just a choice, it’s who I am. I work with clients to design healthy homes and support a community of designers who want to design with impact.
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At the end of January, I attended the Interior Design Show in Toronto, and it was such an energizing reminder of how much innovation is happening in our industry right now. Beyond the beautiful displays and inspiring design concepts, what stood out most to me were the conversations around sustainability and the growing number of brands prioritizing thoughtful production, materials, and sourcing.
As designers, we have a responsibility not just to create beautiful spaces, but to consider the long-term impact of what we specify. Events like IDS are a great opportunity to discover brands that are moving the industry forward in meaningful ways.
Here are a few sustainable brands from the show that really stood out to me.
Ourse creates furniture designed and manufactured in Canada using sustainable materials. Their pieces feel timeless and grounded, with a clear commitment to quality and longevity — two essential pillars of sustainable design.
Designed in Canada and ethically made by artisans in Turkey, Pomp & Sass combines thoughtful craftsmanship with responsible production. Their work highlights how sustainability and artistry can go hand in hand.
One of the most sustainable choices we can make as designers is sourcing vintage and antique pieces. Hauer Market specializes in antique furniture and decor, offering beautiful, character-filled items that extend the life cycle of existing materials.
Stack_abl designs lighting in Canada using recycled materials, demonstrating how innovation can transform what would otherwise be waste into striking, functional design pieces.
De Gaspé produces furniture designed and manufactured in Canada with locally sourced materials. Their work reflects a strong commitment to regional production and reducing the environmental impact of transportation and mass manufacturing.
Mirage Floors stood out for their focus on non-toxic, Canadian-made flooring options. Healthy materials are a key part of sustainable design, especially when we consider the amount of surface area flooring covers in a home.
Next Art creates customizable, made-to-order artwork in Canada. Their approach reduces overproduction and allows designers to specify pieces that are tailored to each project, minimizing waste while supporting local makers.
Fibra develops materials made from recycled textiles and fibers, showing how circular design principles can be applied in practical, tangible ways within interiors.
Sustainable design isn’t about achieving perfection. It’s about making better choices whenever possible, specifying durable products, supporting ethical production, reducing waste, and choosing materials that are healthier for people and the planet.
Seeing more brands embracing these values is encouraging, and it reinforces the idea that sustainability is not a niche direction for our industry. It’s the direction.
If you’re a designer looking to integrate more sustainable sourcing into your projects, I hope this list gives you a few inspiring places to start.
If you’re looking for a space to connect with other designers who care about sustainability, education, and creating real impact, I’d love to invite you to join our Design with Impact community over on Skool.
Our next community call is coming up soon, and it’s always a thoughtful space to exchange ideas, challenges, and inspiration with like-minded designers.
👉 Join us here on Skool