Circular Economy in Furniture Design : Lifecycle Strategies for Material Reuse and Waste Reduction in Contemporary Interiors

Abstract

The circular economy (CE) offers a forward-looking framework for sustainable furniture design, aiming to reduce waste and enhance resource utilization throughout a product’s lifecycle. This study investigates how CE principles—such as material reuse, modular construction, and long-term durability—can be effectively embedded in modern furniture systems. A mixed-methods approach is adopted, integrating expert interviews with quantitative findings from Lifecycle Assessment (LCA) applied to selected furniture models. Environmental metrics, including carbon emissions, resource consumption, and end-of-life recyclability, are examined to assess performance. Results indicate that modular configurations, renewable materials, and reverse logistics mechanisms can significantly mitigate environmental impact. The research provides practical guidance for designers and manufacturers seeking to develop circular furniture solutions for residential and commercial interiors.