Organic Materials & Sustainability: What to Look For in High-Quality Homewares
The pieces you bring into your home tell a story (whether you know it or not). What do you want yours to be? Rooted in integrity and care? Lasting craftsmanship? When you focus on high-quality homewares, you create spaces that feel effortlessly cool. This guide explores how to identify those pieces, what materials to look for, and why choosing organic and sustainable options makes all the difference.
Start with materials that stand the test of time
The foundation of every timeless space lies in its materials. Natural hardwoods, organic cotton, linen, and rattan all embody beauty that improves with age. Teak, in particular, has long been a favorite for high-quality homewares thanks to its durability and natural resistance to moisture.
Our Kamal Rectangle Teak Dining Table showcases this perfectly. Kamal is a handcrafted piece that feels at home both indoors and out. The soft, golden tone of teak brings warmth to a modern dining setting, promising years of reliable use.
For added texture, introduce rattan. It has a relaxed elegance that softens structured interiors and enhances natural light. Discover our Rattan Pendants to see how expertly woven craftsmanship transforms the ambience of a room. Every detail contributes to the quiet luxury that defines high-quality homewares.
Look for craftsmanship
Good design reaches far beyond aesthetics. When you pick up a well-made chair or run your hand across an artisan table’s edge, you can feel the difference. High-quality homewares are built with precision. Joints are snug, finishes are smooth, and proportions are balanced. Just think of the last time you went into a thrift store. Notice how a lot of the older pieces of furniture are solid wood, crafted with intention? These pieces last longer and are worth investing in.
Our Lounge Chairs are a clear example. Each one is handcrafted in Bali using sustainably sourced teak and handwoven leather. It’s a modern nod to tradition, simple in form yet deeply tactile.
Pay attention to how pieces are made, not just what they’re made from. Artisans who take pride in their work naturally produce furniture that lasts a lifetime, reducing waste and creating a home that feels grounded.
Understand the value of certifications
When it comes to sustainable production, transparency matters. Look for trusted labels like the ones below. These certifications are your assurance that your high-quality homewares have been crafted with respect for both people and the planet.
FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) — ensures wood is sourced responsibly.
GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) — guarantees the use of certified organic fibers.
OEKO-TEX Standard 100 — verifies that textiles are free from harmful substances.
Choose pieces that serve multiple roles
True sustainability lies in versatility. A well-made stool can be a seat, a side table, or a stand for a lush plant. Start with our artisan-made Stools. Made for indoor, outdoor use, these chic pieces are endlessly adaptable for every area of your home. For more relaxed corners, a teak and leather Lounge Chair creates a moment of calm without excess.
For outdoor gatherings, invest in a solid teak dining table that weathers beautifully over time. Explore our Outdoor Furniture to find pieces that make your home feel seamless inside and out. High-quality homewares are not just designed to last; they’re designed to evolve with you.
Consider the finish
Details reveal everything about quality. The way wood is joined, sanded, and sealed shows the maker’s hand. Look for pieces finished with natural oils or low-VOC sealants. They let the material breathe and avoid chemical coatings that age poorly.
Our Teak Daybeds exemplify this with their raw, hand-oiled finish, which keeps the timber alive while protecting it from daily use. Subtle craftsmanship like this is what defines high-quality homewares (and we're all about it).
Care that extends the story
Good care is the final step in sustainable living. Wipe spills, rotate cushions, brush rattan gently, and oil teak periodically to maintain its glow. These simple rituals protect your investment and preserve the story of every handmade piece. When you care for high-quality homewares, you’re nurturing a relationship with your space, and it gives back to you in return.
Look for brands with values that align with yours
The most meaningful homes are built on connection. At balè, our furniture is handcrafted by skilled artisans in Bali and Java. Each purchase supports traditional craftsmanship and fair work practices, ensuring your high-quality homewares have an ethical foundation.
If you’d like to explore this philosophy further, visit our balè Journal and read Slow Decorating: Why Choosing Artisan Pieces is Worth the Wait or Natural Interiors: How to Layer Organic Decor for a Calm and Textured Space. These articles dive deeper into mindful living through design.
What to look for when you shop for high-quality homewares
Before adding a piece to your home, pause and check. When the following answers feel right, you’ve likely found your next piece:
What material is it made from?
How was it sourced and finished?
Who made it, and under what conditions?
Can it adapt over time?
