don't throw it... rethink it

With sustainability at the forefront of many of our minds it's a time when creativity can truly shine in a new light. Rather than the constant consumption of mass produced items we're starting more and more to support artisans and craftspeople, opting for items with character over being compelled by sheer quantity and slashed prices. We're following the line of production and caring about where things are sourced from and that all those involved in the production process are being fairly treated. It's a wonderful and exciting time!

We're also looking at how we can apply a sustainable ethos to our own homes, to the things you already possess and in our attitudes. Which brings me to - don't throw it, rethink it...

It's amazing how when you bring in a weathered old wooden ladder that's sat outside hidden amongst garden tools and vines for years it can come into it's own as a gorgeous interior highlight. Holding anything from gorgeous scented candles like the divine range from Palm Beach Collections, to little dishes for your favoured jewels. I have one ladder that's a staple piece in our bathroom to hang towels from, and recently placed one in the bedroom { that came from the garden } to hang my ever rotating scarf collection, along with some smaller odds and ends on the top shelf. They're handy and they hold a silent story and I love that. 

One of my current irresistible interior impulses is to use vintage bottles to hold my favourite cuts from the garden, feathers, dried foliage and twigs. I'm also hooked on giving flowers a second form, allowing them to dry naturally like the hydrangea below, they're exquisite and are just as stunning mixed with fresh cuts in vases of different shapes and sizes.

Or why not take a second look at an old piece of furniture. A cherished chair of mine was a roadside find, maybe there's something hiding in your shed or garage or cupboard that you can take another look at with fresh eyes, perhaps it's not longer fit for it's original use, so get creative. Something as simple as an old crate can be flipped on it's side to create a book shelf or a chair that no one could ever sit on could be a beautiful tableau as a bed side table.

I admit the raw look may not be for everyone, but there are many ways that we can begin to appreciate what we already have and looking to items that have soul and a bit of history rather than the latest lifeless tv unit. I'm not saying all new is bad, quite the contrary, there are some amazing products being produced with integrity and skill, and it's these that I love to support wholeheartedly and mix in with all of my lovely weathered old bits.

It's all about balance and harmony a contrast and diversity in textures and form, each piece contributing to the whole.

Supporting our future and acknowledging our past.

Sustainability most certainly is now.