Just like Fast Fashion, Fast Furniture is causing harm globally. Environmental costs in production, distribution and disposal are disproportionately causing harm to marginalized communities. The next time you are sourcing, consider going to estate sales, auctions, and relatives. Reupholstering and restoring heirlooms is cost effective, chic and meaningful. Chairish and eBay allow you to search locally and pick up.
You say you want high quality modern pieces? Last year I found THREE MINOTTI SOFAS and a MINOTTI CALDER TABLE on Facebook Marketplace. Last week I saw a MILO BAUGHMAN DINING TABLE on Craigslist. 1st Dibs is like shopping at a dang museum.
But what about the trendy colors and patterns that we must have right now? Purchase these in renewable materials that can be recycled, repurposed or biodegrade in decades. Wool rugs can last generations, be cleaned or dyed. Woven rugs can become upholstery fabric when holes appear. Cotton bath and bed linens can be recycled.
And if you must buy new, buy a FUTURE HEIRLOOM. Your cousin’s great niece will be happy to reupholster it.