Of all the materials we deal with every day, denim is probably the most most evident to most. [repetitive use of most] Jeans are the basis of everyday style, with average woman having about seven pairs, and the average man having six. With such high levels of demand and presence, [is that why it’s negative? by sheer volume? or something to do with its production?] it also makes sense that hard-wearing material is one of the most negatively impacting the environment, which is an astonishing number 2.16 million tons of garbage per year. This hasn’t gone unnoticed, with many fashion brands such as RE/Done, ELV, and Reformation championing the recycled denim movement on the apparel front. It’s only a matter of time before the home and lifestyle sector jumps on board – and that time has come. In recent years, recycled denim decorations have become increasingly common, creative and elegant.
About a decade ago, denim furniture was frowned upon and labeled a kitschy DIY project. However, both home and artisan brands are flipping the script, infusing them with compelling and elevated finishes and details. “Like quilting, it is washable Jeans collection it is made using common-sense heritage techniques,” explains Ben Hyman, co-founder and CEO of rug brand Revival, which debuted its recycled denim collection in 2022. “What to do with fabric that can no longer be used for its original purpose? Turn it into something recent. Textiles made from other fabrics are stunning because of the history they carry. They act like a collage in which many things come together to create a whole greater than the sum of its parts.
The brand’s offering brought a state-of-the-art, geometric aesthetic to the customary plain weave technique, calling its designs “A Little Art Deco Meets Georgia O’Keefe’s Abiquiu Casita,” in the original press release. But the beauty of these pieces is that the essence of denim is still captured in a affluent blue woven tapestry, giving home spaces an upscale, American feel.
Taking a more simplistic approach to recycled denim is GreenRow, which currently offers sofa covers in stark white. Jaimee Seabury, Head of ZielonyRów”, says the sustainability brand worked closely with a circular design lab Fresh denim design from the very beginning as a way to “incorporate recycled materials into our furniture. We have worked closely to develop versatile muslin and cotton denim that will lend a hand reduce waste.” The covers’ basic design serves as a blank canvas for decorating ideas, blending easily with a variety of home aesthetics.
Innovation is not confined to rugs and sofa covers. In 2019, a Fresh Zealand-born designer Sophia Rowley he transformed discarded denim into marble furnishings, including side tables and wall panels, calling the project Bahia Denim. Even the car industry is growing. Recently, Swedish car giant Volvo Cars even jumped on the denim bandwagon by using the material in its recent electric SUV, EX30. “Denim carries a real emotional connection between generations, which is why we felt it was the perfect match for our latest car,” says Rekha Meena, senior design manager for color materials and finishes. “[…] This material is full of character and exemplifies a recent and creative expression for car buyers.
Truly full of character. If you want to make your living space a little more sustainable and stylish, shop some of the decorative items below.
