How One California Designer Is Prioritizing Sustainable Practices
Since day one, ethical and sustainable practices have been a priority for Lisa Staprans, who founded her eponymous firm in 1992. The Portola Valley-based interior designer is a sustaining member of the Good Future Design Alliance, an industry movement aimed at reducing waste in built environments. Here, she discusses those aspirations.
Why did you join the GFDA?
I met executive director Kathryn Soter a few years ago and was immediately excited about her work. We discussed potential collaborations, and I joined because I believe her efforts are crucial for our future survival and well-being. Our world is literally drowning in waste, and this alliance addresses that critical issue.
What are some low-waste practices that you’ve implemented?
Recycling and repurposing items to avoid landfill waste. Finding new homes for existing furnishings. Dedicating part of our team specifically to waste-reduction efforts. Collaborating with contractors to find recycling options for construction debris. Identifying donation opportunities for old appliances and lighting fixtures.
When renovating or decorating, what are some things to be mindful of?
It’s crucial to use healthy, nontoxic products—from paint and tile to wood finishes and wall insulation—and work with manufacturers who share this approach. Our environments can significantly impact our health, so we need to be vigilant. For example, with materials used in furniture and bedding, focus on non-off-gassing products. Consider the manufacturing processes as well as the carbon footprint of shipping and transportation.
Any eco-friendly products and brands you’re especially excited about?
Several stand out, like zero-VOC paints and water-based wallpaper adhesives; wood flooring with healthy finishes— leaders in this field include Carlisle Wide Plank Floors and Schotten & Hansen; and Sandra Jordan’s alpaca fabrics, which offer supply-chain transparency and are naturally fade-resistant and hypoallergenic. We’re all in this together, and I strive to align with companies that share these values of creating healthy and sustainable products.
