As business leaders, it’s crucial to recognise that we are the driving forces within the design industry.

We therefore hold a responsibility to operate in a sustainable way across a broad range of factors, including environmental, human, social and economical. Our goal is to integrate sustainable practices across every facet of our work, ensuring that our industry contributes positively to both society and the environment. The days of considering sustainability as an add-on are behind us.

A Holistic Business Approach

True sustainability requires a holistic business approach—one that balances environmental goals with social responsibility and economic viability. In practice, this means rethinking the way we run our businesses, from the ground up. As designers, we have a responsibility to ensure that our work contributes to the well-being of society, while also delivering economic value to our clients and stakeholders. So, where do we start? We believe the power in change starts by aligning a considered brief with empowered and creative people.

At Istoria Group, this holistic approach starts at the point of receiving the brief. The designers will always bring it back to sustainable principles, where possible. By placing a spotlight on the benefits of sustainable implementation and practice from the start, the output of the work is often more aligned with the clients’ sustainable development goals. The outcome? Clients who can walk the talk with their policies, making them happier, whilst also creating an asset that is designed to be repurposed or re-used time and time again. This holistic approach has not only benefited our brand reputation but has also brought our clients closer to their own sustainable development goals, whilst also bringing them long-term financial gains. Sustainability is not just the right thing to do—it’s smart business.

With the right people and processes, we have created a culture where sustainability is at the core of Istoria Group, and the results are cumulative. Our motivated and passionate team happily drives forward sustainable values, which in turn attracts ambitious clients to the organisation, allowing us to do more of the work we love. It’s a stakeholder win-win.

Sustainable Materials and Processes

When discussing sustainability in design, choosing eco-friendly materials is just one part of the creative process. The way we produce, transport, and repurpose waste plays a critical role in determining the overall sustainability of a project. By considering all elements involved in production, we create designs that are not only beautiful but also strive to be ethically sound.

One of our biggest challenges today is finding suppliers who mirror our commitment to sustainability in both materials and processes. The landscape is filled with options, yet identifying partners who are committed to identifying and exploring new opportunities to do more can prove difficult. As we strive to build a network of responsible partners, it’s essential to seek those who demonstrate transparency, accountability and a shared vision. This collaborative approach not only strengthens our commitment but contributes to the sustainability of the design industry as a whole.