The 3 Pillars of Sustainable Design: Building Longevity and Character in Your Next Renovation
How to embrace patina and why natural materials give your home irresistible character
⏳ Reading time: 5 - 6 minutes
Hey friend, let's talk about something that's really close to my heart.
I recently attended "The Material Shift" talk during the Healdsburg Design Week, an event all about making the home industry more sustainable, and it lit such a fire in me. It confirmed a truth I’ve built my entire design philosophy on: the future of beautiful design isn't about fleeting perfection, but about lasting character.
As a designer working with homeowners, I know we all crave homes that are beautiful, comfortable, and a true reflection of us. But the processes of renovation and consumption often carry hidden environmental costs. So, how can we make a change? How do we get that "greener" renovation without sacrificing style?
It all comes down to a simple, three-part mindset shift: focusing on high-quality materials built to last, getting creative with reusing what we already have, and truly embracing how things get better with age. Here at my studio, L’Atelier By ATB Interior Design Studio, this is the core of how we create spaces with soul. It’s about creating a balance that’s better for the planet and, honestly, better for the way we live. It might mean a bigger investment upfront, but it saves you from the cycle of replacing major pieces every few years.
Let’s dive into five ways we can design homes that are beautiful, durable, and truly sustainable.
Design by L’Atelier By ATB
1. The Philosophy of Longevity: Why Patina is the New Perfection
One of the biggest mental hurdles I help my clients overcome is the idea that a new home should stay "perfect" forever. But here’s a secret from me: the real magic happens when we let things live. When you choose natural materials, you’re also choosing to embrace the fact that they will patina over time, developing unique imperfections that become their defining beauty.
Think about the old and charming homes in France or Italy that we are naturally drawn to; visiting them feels like stepping into history, the worn floorboards, the marble with its faint etchings… These aged materials harmonize to tell a story of the lives that lived there. That’s the feeling I want to create for you in your own home.
Initially, the first scratches and stains are often the hardest to accept, as our brains tend to prefer uniformity because it feels effortless. But after a few months of use, the patina will become more uniform, allowing those small marks to blend in and start bringing the soul and character you crave. Make your choice of materials with this evolution in mind.
2. Sourcing Smarter: Balancing Nature, Durability, and Distance
Choosing materials for a "greener" project means looking carefully at where they come from and how they perform, it feels like playing detectives. We look for natural materials that are inherently durable, for example, Mohair is a fantastic choice because it’s naturally stain-resistant and water-repellent.
But "natural" doesn't always mean "eco-friendly." A stunning slab of marble might be natural, but if it's shipped all the way from Europe, its carbon footprint is huge. The key is finding the right balance. Here in Petaluma, CA, we have access to incredible local artisans and materials, and part of my job is to weigh the durability of a product against the impact of getting it to your front door. It’s all about making smart, conscious choices.
3. Beyond New: Embracing the 3 R's of Renovation
This right here is my favorite part of sustainable design—giving beautiful old pieces a brand new story. Instead of a standard cabinet, we repurposed this vintage sideboard into a one-of-a-kind vanity. It instantly fills the room with character that you just can't buy off a shelf. ~ Design by L’Atelier By ATB
For me, sustainability is all about minimizing waste. Before we even think about buying new, we should explore how to reduce our consumption. This means we:
Reuse and Repurpose: Can that old credenza become a new bathroom vanity?
Donate: Let's give your old fixtures and furniture a second life instead of sending them to a landfill.
Source Remnants: There are amazing places to find leftover high-end materials from other projects that would otherwise be thrown away.
And don’t worry, this doesn't mean you have to figure it all out yourself! As your interior designer, I manage all the complexities of weaving these unique, repurposed elements into a seamless, high-end design.
4. Investing in Durability to Reduce Replacement Cycles
One of the most sustainable things you can do is simply buy things that last. Choosing trade-only, custom-quality products over mass-market retail options makes a world of difference.
This is especially true for families with kids, and pets running around! True high-end design can absolutely be resilient. I love using materials that can handle daily life while still looking incredibly chic. You shouldn't have to sacrifice beautiful design while waiting for your family to grow up.
5. Let's Get on the Same Page
Designing a custom, sustainable home is a journey, not a quick fix. It's a commitment. I believe in educating my clients about the process from the very beginning, from realistic timelines to the investment required.
When you understand the thought and craftsmanship that goes into custom solutions and strategic sourcing, you can truly appreciate the value of a home designed to last a lifetime. This partnership is what ensures we create a space you'll love for years to come.
It's All About Shifting Your Mindset
Ultimately, this is about moving away from fast, disposable trends and toward slow, enduring quality. By prioritizing materials that tell a story, embracing the natural aging process of patina, and consciously sourcing options that reduce environmental impact, we can create homes that not only look incredible today but will grow with you, gaining character and telling your story for years to come.
Are you ready to design a home that will tell your unique story?
It’s a journey, but you don't have to go it alone. For more personal tips on sustainable sourcing, investing in quality pieces, and building lasting character, sign up for my free monthly newsletter! It's a note from my studio to your inbox, designed to give you confidence for your next project.
