When planned early, recycled materials become part of the design language — not an afterthought.
Terrazzo is a long-lasting material that only gets better with age. Reclaimed wood is naturally seasoned and stable. PET acoustic panels are moisture-resistant and durable. LEED lighting systems offer long life and low heat output.
Some natural challenges include colour variations in terrazzo, limited PET panel colours in the Indian market, longer lead times, batch inconsistencies in reclaimed wood, and slightly higher upfront costs for lighting. We view these not as obstacles but as characteristics of materials with history. With thoughtful planning, they often become design opportunities.
The material itself was cheaper, but the sourcing, sorting, transporting, and labour cost added up to make it almost as expensive, if not more than the other stones available at their factory.
Recycled content can enter homes through many elements like lighting, furniture, fabrics, and finishes. Recycled materials are best identified through clear manufacturer disclosures, but they also tend to have subtle textural irregularities or particulate patterns that reveal their origins. Responsible brands communicate this openly so designers and homeowners know exactly what they’re working with.
The main challenges include ensuring consistency that lasts over time, shifting consumer perceptions around recycled and alternate materials, scaling production without compromising the standard, and maintaining a reliable supply of uniform recycled inputs.
Read the full story that first appeared in Architect & Interiors magazine Dec 2025 issue here:
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