Much has been said about the Circular Economy: an economic model in the form of closed loops that takes into consideration all available resources and aims  to reduce waste and negative impact on society. This way of thinking has now also inspired designers, artisans and makers around the world. Together, they are disrupting established business models in favour of new, sustainable design methods. Welcome to the world of Circular Design. 

To understand the circular design movement, it’s important to understand why a radical and more restorative approach to design is needed. Try to imagine it as follows: traditional, linear economic models are based on a take-make-dispose approach. This line has one beginning and one end. When it comes to design and production, at the end of this line is an endless landfill and all the contamination that comes with it. It goes without saying that this is not a sustainable option. Pressure on the world’s resources is increasing by the day. As consumers, we have a responsibility to make conscious choices. There really is no Planet B.

However, circular design thinking allows designers new ways to create sustainable, long-lasting value in the circular economy. The groundbreaking approach focuses on four R’s: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Repair.

We want the Kauchy Home to be a place for you to reconnect with your interior in a healthy way. You have the opportunity to change your daily routines and the products you use in favour of choices that underpin conscious living. So roll up your sleeves, and let’s redesign your home in a circular way.

Reduce - This one is all about your mindset and learning to live better with less. How much is enough? Take a critical look at your interior and be prepared to either say goodbye to some of your items, or pledge to yourself that you have enough. Be selective and appreciate the things you own.

Reuse - One of our personal favorites. Reusing is at the heart of Kauchy’s personal story. We started this online platform because we wanted to create a single digital marketplace for vintage furniture. It started from our personal experience: we moved houses many times and were torn every time we had to leave quality furniture behind. We didn’t consciously realise it back then, but this was the first step we set into conscious selling.

Repair - There are many ways to go about this one. Try to extend a product’s lifecycle for as long as you can. Taking care of your belongings will make you rediscover your favorite interior pieces. But, if you can’t do it, leave it to a professional design lover. Brutus de Gaper is one of our favourite partners when it comes to vintage design furniture. They know the value of well-designed furniture like no other. They take time and effort to repair every single iconic design piece by hand: to ensure it can be enjoyed for generations to come.

There’s even a fifth R to be added to the circular design movement: Refuse. Don’t be a part of the problem, dream of a better future instead. You can truly disrupt the waste economy by simply refusing to be a part of it. Be critical of the products you buy and make it a goal to get to know the story behind everything you consume. Showing interest in the world around you will enrich your daily life and allow you to feel more involved. 

At Kauchy, we make it easy to cut through the noise. By personally selecting independent brands and designers that have chosen to create conscious products. At the heart of each and every one of these products is a sustainable promise waiting to be discovered. Strive to make better choices. The shift is already in motion.