Sustainability is a buzz word we hear regularly nowadays, but ever heard it referred to homewares? Introducting, Sala Verde (green room) born out of a passion for helping others, helping the environment and living healthily. Founder Nikki Lisle recognised the increasing demand for furnishings that combine unique contemporary design with sustainable and ethical production. "We believe the space you live in and the things around you should be beautiful in form, colour and texture, and shouldn't compromise your health or the environment," she says.

Since Nikki introduced her ethical brand at Decoration + Design two years ago, the business was given the `green light' and she has been sourcing sustainably-made furnishings ever since. Furniture Fair Online decided to quizz Nikki on the concept of eco-friendly homewares, how some interiors can actually make you sick, and how and where she sources the Sala Verde product range.

You started the business out of a personal passion for sustainable furnishings – can you explain what this entails?

It’s not that easy sourcing sustainably-made furnishings. It involves a lot more than just choosing things I like. I spend a lot of time researching the materials used and their origins. I’ve had to say no to adding some gorgeous furniture to my range because the manufacturers have not been able to tell me the origins of the wood and whether it was illegally logged. I research the manufacturers and prefer to source from those who are helping communities, paying fairly and keeping age-old craftsmanship alive.

How can certain interiors be detrimental to your health? 

I’ve read studies stating that pollution levels inside some homes are higher than that outside on a busy street. This comes from the off-gassing of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) which leach out from paints, varnishes, glues in carpets, MDF in our cupboards, stain retardants on our sofas, the foam in our pillows, as well as some of the chemical cleaning products we use. The increase in asthma and other illnesses has been linked to all this. It’s pretty scary. I’m a big believer in furnishing homes using natural materials and fibres, as well as using non-chemical cleansers to clean them too.

What has been the most exciting part of the business development?

I gain huge satisfaction each time I discover a new supplier that aligns with Sala Verde’s ethos of supporting communities and using sustainable products. And who also produce beautiful home ware. I also gain huge reassurance when my buyers respond to my ethos and to my taste in home wares by buying again and again.

What are the most popular colourways/styles/homwares for modern interior decors?

There are definite signs of a gold rush. Not the shiny yellow golds of the ‘80s but more muted, antique golds. The new golds are a warm change from years of steely grey silvers, and pendant lighting is back with a vengeance. We’re all a little bored with down lights. Nothing beats the `wow’ factor of an amazing hanging sculpture of light and shadow.

Where has this business taken you? What countries have you travelled to and through to discover different unique products and ideas?

Sala Verde has taken me back to the Philippines many times. I’ve been travelling there regularly since I was a girl and have long recognised and appreciated the quality craftsmanship and the increasingly good styles being made there. Over the years, I have lived and travelled regularly through SE Asia, India, Europe and South America. With doing what I do now, it doesn’t surprise me that all my past travel involved scouring markets and antique stores coming home laden with home wares. I have more Turkish and Indian rugs than I have floor space, and more Peruvian weavings than I know what to do with. Perhaps I should sell some?

What do you love most about what you do?

I love showcasing the creativity of talented people. I love meeting my suppliers and my buyers (when I can) and I actually love the research I do too. I’m a bit of a maven when it comes to knowing the what, where, how and who of a product. 7. You are about to exhibit at D+D Sydney, why do you choose this fair to showcase your wares? I launched Sala Verde at D+D nearly two years ago. The response I had to my range was wonderful. It gave me the green light I needed. D+D is where designers and retailers go to find out what’s new and to source unique products for their clients and customers.

Any other company news you’d like to share?

I have a big buying trip next month. The excitement is in the discovery. I don’t know what I’ll find but there is a strong chance you will see it launched at D+D Sydney in Feb '12.

To register for D+D from 1-3 February, 2012 at the Sydney Exhibition Centre, visit www.decorationdesign.com.au

 

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