Designing with vegans in mind

Veganism is often thought of by non-vegans as a dietary choice. But although living as a vegan means adopting a plant-based diet, it is, as the Vegan Society says, ‘a philosophy and way of living which seeks to exclude – as far as is possible and practicable – all forms of exploitation of, and cruelty to, animals for food, clothing or any other purpose’.

Some clients are specifically interested in vegan interiors, while others might be unfamiliar with the concept but desire design with an ethical approach that environmentally conscious vegan interiors can fulfil. To examine the issue of designing with vegans in mind we asked BIID members Jo Ahmedzai, whose studio's mission is to design ethical spaces that are good for people and the planet, and Chloe Bullock, who is VeganDesign.org-certified, to speak about their approach to these clients.

What is vegan interior design?

‘Vegan interior design is an approach to creating spaces that beautifully merge aesthetics with a deep respect for our planet,’ says Jo. ‘By opting for vegan materials like cruelty-free fabrics such as linen, organic cotton, hemp, non-toxic paints, and eco-friendly furniture, you're supporting the welfare of animals and reducing your carbon footprint.

‘Vegan interior design also incorporates other natural materials like wood, bamboo, and cork, further enhancing a home’s style and supporting sustainable practices. These materials, which are durable, long lasting, and biodegradable, not only look good but can also be better for health. Selected with care, they don't emit harmful chemicals into a space. So, whether for ethical consumers looking for a healthier home or the environmentally aware, choosing vegan interior design is a conscious decision that benefits clients and the world around us.’

Is there increasing interest from clients?

‘This lifestyle choice is growing in popularity, fuelling demand for vegan products in every aspect of our lives, not only through our food choices but also in fashion and homeware,’ says Jo. ‘I am increasingly aware of many businesses and designers working to create a cruelty-free industry-wide shift. Clients are also driving this shift and looking specifically for vegan Interior design; however, many are likely to be unfamiliar with the concept at this moment.    

‘My clients may not have considered some options before: they often focus on aesthetics, comfort, and cost instead of the specified materials’ source, origin, or ethics. Our responsibility is to educate people about what they choose to bring into their spaces, creating nurturing environments that balance aesthetics, ethics and environmental responsibility. In doing so, we create spaces that evoke a sense of quiet luxury – spaces that are refined, life-focused, and designed to be timeless, sustainable, and long-lasting.’

While materials such as leather, wool and down first come to mind as those to avoid, what are the more surprising elements of interiors that aren’t vegan? 

‘Sadly, it’s pretty much impossible to deliver a fully vegan interior for a client,’ says Chloe. ‘There are many unexpected places where animal products are present – such as in towels or a TV! Plus we are faced with regulations where animal testing is still a requirement for toxic chemicals such as chemical flame retardants and ingredients of some paints, adhesives and grouts. I see this as more reason to detoxify our specifications as the presence of these toxic chemicals causes problems through a product’s whole lifecycle and prevents safe decomposition at the end of life, stopping those products from being fully circular.’

Is it difficult to source vegan alternatives and can you offer some advice on doing so?

‘No, it's not difficult,’ says Chloe. ‘Be guided by certifications, but be cautious of the loud marketing noise around the word “vegan” as it can mean different things. Ideally, we need both “vegan” (without animal products) and “cruelty free” (without animal-tested ingredients) to sit alongside each other on labels – ideally as certifications. I use the Naturewatch Foundation Compassionate Shopping Guide and I look for certifications: PETA approved vegan (cruelty free + vegan), Vegan Society approved (cruelty free + vegan) or Soil Association (cruelty free).

For leather alternatives, I have an eye on the fashion and car industries. As innovation happens, it trickles through to our industry with variations to use for interior applications. I have loved following the progress of MIRUM, which is an entirely animal-free ‘alt leather’ material. Unlike most leather alternatives, it’s completely plastic-free.

How do you balance the need for sustainable materials and products with avoiding animal-derived versions?

‘It is a difficult balance, and I recognise it might not always be possible to tick every box; however, being vegan is a commitment to doing the best you can with the resources available to you,’ says Jo. ‘It takes a lot of time and questions to the suppliers to ensure that the products and materials meet our criteria at every level, investigating the end product and all the layers, including the glues, dyes and pigments used in manufacturing it. Finding partners in the industry who share our values is essential and makes this easier.’

And Chloe says: ‘When sourcing, firstly I try to use as much as possible of what is here already such as vintage or refurbished furniture, or materials with a high post-consumer recycled content. Longevity is important. I ensure I get a clear brief and fulfil it as closely as possible as if a client is happy, they will be less inclined to replace something quickly.’

What else is essential to consider when designing with vegans in mind?

‘While being vegan is a mindset and becomes a way of living, everyone is at a different point in their vegan journey and follows their own path,’ says Jo. ‘Whether for ethical, health, or environmental reasons, I need to connect with them and listen to and respect their views and values. As with any client, when designing their interior, I want to ensure the project is an enjoyable and smooth process from the beginning to the end.’

Chloe Bullock’s book Sustainable Interior Design includes a chapter on vegan design.