By Amelia, Professional Interior Designer
Australia’s love for open spaces, sun-soaked interiors, and seamless connections with the outdoors has shaped the look and feel of our homes for generations. But as environmental awareness grows, so does the desire to build and renovate homes that are as kind to the planet as they are beautiful and functional. The good news? You don’t have to sacrifice style or comfort to make sustainable choices.
As a professional interior designer, I’ve seen first-hand how sustainable materials can transform a house into a healthy, energy-efficient, and timeless home. Whether you’re planning a new build or renovating your existing property, let’s explore the best sustainable materials for modern Australian homes—and how you can incorporate them into your next project.

Why Choose Sustainable Materials?
Sustainable building materials are designed to minimise environmental impact—both in their production and throughout their lifecycle. They typically use fewer resources, produce less waste, and often provide health and energy efficiency benefits for the homeowner. Key advantages include:
- Reduced carbon footprint
- Improved indoor air quality
- Lower running costs (energy and water savings)
- Enhanced resale value
- Supporting local industries and materials
1. Recycled and Reclaimed Timber
Nothing says “Australian home” quite like the warmth of timber. Recycled and reclaimed timber, sourced from old buildings, wharves, or warehouses, not only brings rich character and history to your space but also prevents perfectly good wood from ending up in landfill. Use it for flooring, wall paneling, beams, or bespoke furniture. It pairs beautifully with modern, coastal, or industrial design styles.
Tip: Look for suppliers certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) to ensure the timber’s origins are ethical and sustainable.
2. Bamboo: Rapidly Renewable and Versatile
Bamboo has gained immense popularity for its rapid growth rate and renewability. It’s stronger than many hardwoods and makes an excellent choice for flooring, cabinetry, and even decorative panels. Bamboo is also naturally resistant to pests and moisture, making it ideal for the Australian climate.
3. Natural Stone and Recycled Bricks
Stone and bricks are classic, durable, and can often be sourced locally. Choosing recycled bricks or locally quarried stone for your walls, fireplaces, or outdoor areas reduces transport emissions and gives a distinct, time-honoured aesthetic.
Design Note: Exposed recycled brick walls are a signature feature in many contemporary and industrial homes, adding depth and texture while keeping your home’s footprint small.
4. Eco-Friendly Insulation
Insulation is crucial for energy efficiency, reducing the need for artificial heating and cooling. Today, there are many eco-friendly insulation options, such as:
- Sheep’s wool
- Recycled denim
- Cellulose (from recycled paper)
- Hemp batts
These natural alternatives are non-toxic, effective, and help maintain comfortable indoor temperatures year-round.
5. Low-VOC and Natural Paints
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) in conventional paints can negatively impact air quality. Opting for low-VOC or natural paints ensures a healthier home environment, particularly important for young families or anyone with allergies.
While you’re refreshing your home’s appearance, don’t forget the exterior! Many homeowners now invest in a professional roof painting service to not only revitalise their home’s look but also to use reflective, heat-resistant coatings that can lower cooling costs and extend the life of your roof. Sustainable roof paints can contribute to your home’s energy efficiency—making it a smart and green investment.
6. Sustainable Flooring Solutions
Beyond timber and bamboo, consider the following for sustainable floors:
- Cork: Harvested from the bark of the cork oak tree, which regenerates naturally, making cork a renewable and comfortable underfoot option.
- Linoleum: Made from natural materials like linseed oil, wood flour, and jute, true linoleum is biodegradable and durable.
- Polished concrete: When done right, it’s a low-maintenance, long-lasting choice that can also help regulate indoor temperatures.
7. Green Roofs and Living Walls
Incorporating vegetation into your home design isn’t just about aesthetics. Green roofs and living walls insulate your home, reduce stormwater runoff, and create habitat for urban wildlife. If you’re in an urban area, they also help filter air and reduce heat island effects.
8. Energy-Efficient Windows and Glazing
Choose double or triple glazing, low-e glass, and sustainably sourced timber frames to reduce energy loss and maximise comfort. Smart window placement can also optimise natural light and ventilation, cutting down your need for artificial lighting and air conditioning.
9. Recycled Metal Fixtures and Fittings
Aluminium, steel, and copper are energy-intensive to produce, but using recycled metals for taps, handles, lighting, or even roof sheets dramatically reduces environmental impact and adds a modern, industrial edge to your interiors.
10. Water-Saving Fixtures
Look for WELS-rated (Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards) taps, toilets, and showerheads to reduce water usage. Rainwater tanks and greywater systems are also popular in modern Australian homes, especially where droughts and water restrictions are common.
Bringing It All Together
The beauty of sustainable materials is how seamlessly they can blend with any design style, from minimalist and coastal to urban and industrial. When making choices for your home, consider the following steps:
- Source locally: Reduce transport emissions and support Australian businesses.
- Prioritise durability: Choose materials that last longer and require less maintenance.
- Reuse and repurpose: Before buying new, see what you can salvage or upcycle.
- Think lifecycle: Opt for materials that are recyclable or biodegradable at end-of-life.
Final Thoughts
Embracing sustainable materials for your modern Australian home isn’t just a passing trend—it’s a long-term investment in your family’s well-being, the value of your property, and the health of our environment. As you plan your next renovation or build, remember: small, mindful choices can have a big impact