When I moved into my first place with 2 of my friends, I couldn't contain my excitement. Having lived with my parents and followed their house rules all these years, I was thrilled to have a space that I could make my own. First order of business? Home décor, of course! Here’s some tips to go sustainable.

1. Buy cotton or jute where possible: Bedsheets, rugs, laundry bins – do your best to invest in earth-friendly materials. Cotton sheets not only help regulate your body temperature and keep you cool but are also easy to clean and maintain.

2. Buy secondhand/thrift furniture: Bedside tables, study desks, shelves – you'd be surprised how many people are selling pieces in great condition and for a fraction of the actual selling price of these pieces. Reduce your carbon footprint and save money!

3. Invest in quality and timeless pieces: While trends are interesting, it may make more sense in the long run to stick to something you enjoy and is timeless – whether that’s a milieu of colours or a neutral palette. This will help you invest in quality items that last.

4. Source décor from unusual places: Try your hand at acquiring items like vases, trays, other items – from secondhand stores, try your hand at pottery and use that as décor - ask your friends for items they’re looking to give way. Get some airdrying or oven-bake clay and make your own pieces!

5. Repurpose: Whether it be old glass jars, lightbulbs or wooden pallets – the world is really your oyster! Use wine bottles as planters and candle jars, deconstruct light bulbs to make the cutest vases – let your imagination run wild!

We highly encourage you to take a step back, look at your surroundings and identify what you can improve and reuse! You’ll be surprised by how quickly this way of thinking becomes a way of life, and come to realise how it impacts the planet, and even you!