Let’s go round again: 10 brilliant recycled homewares

Plastic bottles, metal, textiles – lots of everyday materials can get a second chance, and end up reincarnated into gorgeous homewares. Not only will you end up with something unusual, it’ll also have a nice ‘back story’, such as rugs that started off life as drinks bottles. We’ve picked out our top ten products made from recycled materials enjoying a new lease of life.

1. Gold recycled plastic swing chair, Ian Snow

How 70s retro is this! Made from recycled plastic, this chair is sturdy and hardwearing as well as waterproof and wipeclean. Suspend it from a fixed point, and fill it with cushions and throws for a cosy retreat. £259.99, available from Ian Snow.

2. Handmade recycled basket, Lola and Mawu

These colourful baskets are made of natural undyed straw and recycled fabric, and would be idea for storing bits and bobs in bathrooms or kitchens. They’re handmade by a female weaving cooperative in the Bolgatanga area of Northern Ghana, and are fairtrade so that the makers get an income. Available in different colourways, £26 each from Lola and Mawu.

3. Patchwork recycled cotton throw, Cult Furniture

This budget Scandi-inspired throw is made from cotton in black and cream. It’s been made from recycled fabric for a textured look and is also kind to the environment. £19, available from Cult Living.

4. Recycled teak bajot table, Boutique Camping

This hand crafted Bajot table is made from teak in India. The teak wood is light making it easy to transport and move around the house to where it’s needed – you could even take it outside for occasional use. £39, available from Boutique Camping.

5. Round bud vase, Garden Trading

Add a bright pop of colour to a mantelpiece, windowsill or bookcase with these round bud vases, available in different colours. Made from 100% recycled glass, they cost a pocket-friendly £7.50 each and are available from Garden Trading.

6. Recycled wood frame, Ian Snow

Constructed by hand from recycled wood, this free-standing frame (was £24, now £12)  follows a standard size and design, but each one is slightly different. The company who makes this product is based in India and employs seventy people. Employees are provided with provident pension funds, medical allowance and an education allowance for their children, on top of their statutory wage. One of a range available from Ian Snow. 

7. Recycled paint pot mirrors, Smithers of Stamford

These unusual mirrors are edged with old paint pots to add an artistic pop of colour to your wall. The mirrors are limited edition, and  work well both horizontally and vertically in a simple, neutral space. Prices start at £240, available from Smithers of Stamford.

8. Recycled wood foldable table, Out There Interiors

With both nordic and industrial influences, this distressed wood and metal folding table is a great choice for occasional dining, inside or out, or as a working surface. Both the wood and metal are recycled so each product is unique. £335, available from Out There Interiors. 

9. Roma jute and textile rug, Hot Haveli

This handwoven jute and recycled textile cotton rug in a bright multicoloured design is handwoven in a village outside of Jaipur in Rajasthan, India. They’re durable, easy to look after and even reversible for a slightly different look depending on the decor or the day. £38, available from Hot Haveli. 

10. Chindi cotton rug, Bungalow DK

This Chindi rug in ‘curry’ (golden yellow) with fringed edging is handmade from leftover cotton from the fashion industry. Available in two sizes. Prices start at £20, available from Printer and Tailor. 

By Sara Walker.