The proliferation of ‘fast homeware’ has resulted in a spike in frequent decor changes, leading to a substantial amount of usable items ending up in landfills. A survey conducted among 2,000 adults found that 62% of them have disposed of homeware that was in good enough condition to be donated to charitable organizations. Furthermore, a significant proportion (25%) of respondents expressed the perception that homeware trends are evolving at an accelerated pace.
The primary motivations for regular homeware purchases include the desire to maintain fresh aesthetics (38%), uplift mood (23%), and keep up with trends (13%). When considering homeware updates, prioritizing pre-loved purchases is recommended. Numerous home stores offer a wide selection of second-hand items that might align with your preferences.
Despite the increased frequency of purchases, nearly 40% of adults neglect to consider the environmental implications associated with acquiring new homeware products, as indicated by the British Heart Foundation poll. This study aims to promote ‘slow-ware,’ which involves prioritizing pre-loved homeware before making new purchases and donating items that are no longer needed. Allison Swaine-Hughes, a representative of the charity, highlights the importance of recognizing the environmental impact of homeware consumption, akin to that of fast fashion.
She emphasizes the potential for pre-loved items to fulfill decor needs, preventing them from ending up in landfills and giving them a second life in different homes. When refreshing homeware, Swaine-Hughes encourages exploring second-hand options, particularly at their well-stocked home stores.
The survey also revealed that 52% of respondents rearrange items and decorations seasonally, presenting opportunities for purchasing and discarding unwanted pieces. However, despite the increased frequency of homeware changes, 27% of adults admitted to never buying pre-owned items, and 29% rarely engage in such practices. Nevertheless, among those who have purchased second-hand, 56% cited cost savings as a primary reason, while 37% appreciated the unique finds available through pre-loved shopping. Notably, 33% of respondents prioritize sustainability when opting for second-hand homeware.
Amidst the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, 60% of respondents emphasized affordability as a key consideration when making homeware purchases, followed by style (44%) and functionality (40%). Despite these financial concerns, there remains a desire to continue the trend of frequent home furnishing changes, with 50% of respondents expressing a wish to do so more regularly.
To illustrate the benefits of second-hand homeware, the British Heart Foundation has showcased a selection of products available at their stores, demonstrating how pre-loved purchases can offer stylish and affordable alternatives to new items while reducing waste.
Allison Swaine-Hughes reiterates the ease of donating pre-loved items, emphasizing the availability of home collections, postage options, and drop-off points at local shops. She highlights the positive impact of these donations, which fund life-saving research. Additionally, when considering future purchases, Swaine-Hughes encourages consumers to prioritize second-hand options before buying new.
Sarah Cromwell, a freelance art director from London, exemplifies how pre-loved homeware can create a vibrant and distinctive living space. She incorporates second-hand finds from charity shops and other sources into her colorful home decor, mixing them with new items and even discovering unique pieces in skips. Cromwell recommends having a specific color shade in mind when shopping for pre-loved items to ensure cohesive combinations.
She suggests creating color themes in each room, selecting smaller homeware pieces, accessories, and textiles that tell a specific color story. Cromwell highlights the versatility and affordability of pre-loved items, enabling her to refresh her spaces frequently with endless options.
Cromwell shares her tips for successful pre-loved homeware shopping:
1. Embrace a specific color or color combination and explore its possibilities.
2. Draw inspiration from paintings, prints, photographs, or colorful textiles.
3. Utilize paint swatches to experiment with color combinations.
4. Add value by incorporating trinkets and smaller items that provide finishing touches.
5. Determine the exact shade of color to ensure compatibility, recognizing the nuances within each color category.
6. Explore ‘off-grid’ sources such as charity shops and boot sales for unusual and unique finds.
7. Consider homeware stores like British Heart Foundation for a wide selection of pre-loved items.
8. If a color scheme no longer resonates, donate the items to a charity shop, giving them a new purpose in someone else’s home.
