Second-hand September

As we’re already halfway through the month, I wanted to flag Second-Hand September. A 30-day campaign run by Oxfam to encourage people to give clothes a longer life by donating or buying second-hand. While there is definitely a need for this within the fashion industry it also has a place for interiors.

Like ‘fast fashion’, part of the problem is ‘fast furniture’ made using poor-quality materials and offered at prices so low that we consider them disposable. Also due to the low quality of the furniture it ends up being too expensive or difficult to repair or recycle and so, the cycle starts again.

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

Shopping for antiques and vintage has always been a passion of mine and is an eco-choice which can be overlooked. Buying and re-using existing pieces can help reduce landfill and energy spent on new production.

There are many online sites like Vinterior, eBay, Preloved, Gumtree, where you can sell and purchase pre-loved and second hand furniture. However, if you’re after a more curated e-commerce experience like the well known 1stDibs, then check out my top 5 go-to’s…

TAT

After a varied career working in charity and then Decoration Stylist at House & Garden, Charlie Porter launched Tat London. With a sharp eye for interiors, Porter has captured shoppers who are looking for unusual accessories or smaller decorative pieces. Her site is an ever-changing assortment of mirrors, textiles, ceramics and lighting.

Visit Tat-London.co.uk

Ceraudo

A London-based interiors brand offering a mix of antique and contemporary furniture and accessories, Ceraudo was founded in 2016 by sisters Emily and Victoria Ceraudo. They have recently launched their own collection comprised of original and antique-inspired pieces made by skilled craftsmen in Britain and Portugal.

Visit Ceraudo.com

The Peanut Vendor

Founded in 2008, The Peanut Vendor are design dealers based in East London, specialising in the early to late 20th Century furniture, accessories and art-led objects. Pieces are unique and rare so you need to move fast if you like what you see.

Visit ThePeanutVendor.co.uk

Pamono

A go to for one of a kind vintage and contemporary furniture from around the globe. Showcasing established and emerging galleries, shops and designers their curated collection has something for everyone.

Visit Pamono.co.uk

Retrouvius

Founded by architects Maria Speake and Adam Hills in 1993. An architectural salvage and design company selling unique and quirky reconditioned furniture and fittings. Working with demolition firms they’ve rescued entire building facades and designed projects to showcase their philosophy of re-use.

Vist Retrouvius