When designing an interior space, fabric selection is often viewed through the lens of colour and pattern. But beyond aesthetics, the composition of fabric plays a fundamental role in performance, longevity, and sustainability. The right fabric choice can improve acoustics, enhance comfort, and even contribute to a healthier indoor environment.
Every fabric brings its own set of characteristics that influence how a space looks, feels, and performs. Whether you’re specifying textiles for a residential, hospitality, or commercial project, understanding fabric composition is key to making informed choices.
Materials like linen, wool, and cotton offer breathability, texture, and a connection to nature. They can regulate temperature, keeping spaces cool in summer and warm in winter. Natural fibres are also biodegradable and often have fewer chemical treatments, making them a more sustainable choice. Wool, for example, has natural fire-resistant properties, while linen is known for its durability and ability to soften over time. Naturalmat uses organic, local wool in their products. Natural, locally sourced fabrics are our favourite kinds of materials to work with!
Fabrics made from recycled synthetics or responsibly sourced fibres reduce environmental impact without compromising on durability or style. Recycled polyester, made from plastic bottles, helps divert waste from landfills while offering a long-lasting alternative to virgin synthetic fibres. Weaver Green, a fantastic company based in Devon, is our top pick for quality sustainable synthetic rugs and cushions. Hemp and bamboo textiles, known for their rapid renewability and minimal pesticide use, provide a strong and sustainable solution for eco-conscious interiors.
For high-traffic areas, stain-resistant and fire-retardant textiles ensure longevity and compliance with safety regulations. Many performance fabrics are treated to resist spills, moisture, and UV damage, making them ideal for commercial spaces, hotels, and restaurants. Crypton and other innovative treatments offer antimicrobial properties, which can contribute to a healthier environment, particularly in healthcare and hospitality settings. There are more and more eco-friendly and non-toxic treatments coming onto the market, including EcoElite™, which is a breathable plant-based repellent coating, the first of its kind.
Certain fabrics help absorb sound, making them ideal for workplaces, hospitality venues, and open-plan home environments. Heavier textiles like wool, felt, and velvet can reduce echo and improve sound insulation, enhancing comfort in busy spaces. Acoustic panels covered in fabric can also be an effective design solution for open-plan offices, ensuring a quieter and more productive atmosphere. Acoplaster DC1 from Stil Acoustics has a high recycled content, patch repairable, and provides excellent acoustic performance.
At Boaz Studio, we take a holistic approach to material selection, considering the full lifecycle of every fabric we specify. We're constantly thinking; "What happens to this material when it is no-longer used in this project?". The best-case scenario is the cyclic Cradle-to-Cradle approach, where the material can continue usefulness indefinitely. From durability and maintenance to ethical sourcing and sustainability, our choices ensure that interiors are not only beautiful but also functional and responsible.
If you're in the process of looking for products for your interior design project, get in touch to explore how Boaz Studio can help you
