The Circular Interior: Designing Spaces with a Conscience and a Future

The world is changing, and so is the role of the interior designer. No longer are we simply curators of aesthetics; we are architects of experience, stewards of resources, and agents of change. As professionals shaping the built environment, we have a profound opportunity – and a responsibility – to design spaces that not only inspire but also contribute to a healthier planet and a more equitable future.

This is where the concept of the Circular Interior comes in. It's more than a trend; it's a paradigm shift. It's about moving beyond traditional linear models of "take-make-dispose" and embracing a regenerative approach that minimizes waste, maximizes resource efficiency, and prioritizes ethical sourcing. At Wehlers, we believe that design without compromise is beautiful because of its circular model, not despite it.

So, what exactly does a circular economy mean in the context of interior design?

It's about rethinking every stage of the design process, from initial concept to final installation. It involves:

- Material Selection: Choosing materials that are durable, renewable, recyclable, or, even better, made from recycled content. This includes prioritizing materials with transparent supply chains and a low environmental footprint.

- Design for Disassembly: Creating spaces and furniture that can be easily disassembled at the end of their life, allowing components to be reused, repurposed, or recycled.

- Waste Reduction: Minimizing waste during construction and renovation projects through careful planning, efficient material use, and responsible waste management practices.

- Extended Lifecycles: Designing for longevity by selecting durable materials, creating flexible spaces that can adapt to changing needs, and offering repair and maintenance services to extend the life of furniture and fixtures.

- Collaboration & Partnerships: Working with suppliers, manufacturers, and contractors who share a commitment to sustainability and circularity.

A Commitment to Full Circularity

At Wehlers, we are deeply committed to embodying the FULL circular economy. This commitment is at the heart of everything we do, from the materials we source to the design of our products. Our flagship product, the R.U.M. chair, is a testament to this commitment.

The R.U.M. chair is not just a stacking chair; it's a statement. It's a statement about the power of design to transform waste into beauty, to create functional and aesthetically pleasing products from unexpected sources. What sets the R.U.M. chair apart is its unique composition: it's crafted from traceable post consumer waste streams, specifically:

Ocean Plastic: - Recovered from our oceans, preventing harmful pollution and giving new life to discarded materials.

- E-waste: Reclaimed from electronic devices & kitchen appliance, diverting valuable resources from landfills and reducing the demand for virgin materials.

- Pharma Waste: Repurposed from pharmaceutical industry waste streams, offering a responsible solution for materials that would otherwise be incinerated.

By using these traceable waste streams, we not only reduce our environmental impact but also create a product with a unique story and a powerful message. We believe that transparency is key, which is why we are committed to providing detailed information about the origin and composition of our materials.

 

A Win-Win for Clients and the Planet

In today's business landscape, Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors are increasingly important. Investors, employees, and customers are all demanding greater transparency and accountability when it comes to sustainability. Interior designers can play a critical role in helping clients achieve their ESG goals by creating spaces that are not only beautiful but also environmentally responsible and socially conscious.

 

By incorporating circular design principles into your projects, you can help clients:

- Reduce their carbon footprint: By selecting low-carbon materials and minimizing waste, you can significantly reduce the environmental impact of their spaces.

- Improve resource efficiency: By choosing durable, reusable, and recyclable materials, you can help clients conserve resources and reduce their operating costs.

- Enhance employee well-being: By creating healthy and comfortable spaces, you can improve employee productivity, reduce absenteeism, and attract top talent.

- Strengthen their brand reputation: By demonstrating a commitment to sustainability, you can help clients enhance their brand reputation and attract environmentally conscious customers.

 

The Functional Benefits of the Stacking Chair in Circular Design

Let's not forget the practical advantages of incorporating *stacking chairs* into your designs. In addition to their aesthetic appeal and sustainable credentials, stacking chairs offer a range of functional benefits, particularly in commercial spaces:

- Space Optimization: Stacking chairs are ideal for maximizing space in multi-purpose rooms, conference centers, and event venues.

- Easy Storage: When not in use, stacking chairs can be easily stored away, freeing up valuable floor space.

- Flexibility: Stacking chairs provide flexibility in seating arrangements, allowing you to quickly adapt to changing needs.

- Cost-Effectiveness: Stacking chairs can be a cost-effective seating solution, particularly for businesses that require flexible seating options.

 

The R.U.M. chair, with its stacking capabilities, perfectly embodies this blend of sustainability and practicality.

 

Case Studies: Circular Design in Action

Case studies of projects featuring the R.U.M. chair or other circular design elements. Highlight the specific challenges, solutions, and outcomes of each project: check the cases here (DBGN Certification case) here (Circular Economy case) &  here (for a case at cultre)

The Future of Interior Design:

The future of interior design is circular. It's about embracing a new mindset, a new set of tools, and a new way of thinking about the spaces we create. As interior professionals, we have the power to shape the built environment in a way that is both beautiful and sustainable.

At Wehlers, we are committed to supporting interior designers on this journey. We believe that by working together, we can create a world where design is not just about aesthetics but also about ethics, responsibility, and a deep respect for our planet. We are proud to be a B-Corp Certified company, reflecting our commitment to the highest standards of social and environmental performance. We continuously strive to achieve the World's Lowest Carbon Footprint? in our furniture production.

Join us in embracing the Circular Interior. Let's design spaces with a conscience and a future.

A Wehlers Invitation

Explore the Wehlers R.U.M. chair and discover how you can integrate circular design into your next project. Contact us today to learn more about our materials, our process, and our commitment to sustainability. Let’s build a better future, one space at a time.