Textiles Considered: Jules Haines, founder of Haines, shares advice on adopting a more sustainability-focused approach to choosing home textiles

Over the past five years, Haines has gained recognition in the interiors world for its sustainable approach to salvaging designer home textile waste and rehoming upcycled and second-hand items. A favourite among interior designers, upholsterers, homemakers, and crafters, the brand has, to date, rehomed over 37,000 metres of home textiles from the luxury retail industry. Founder Jules Haines speaks to Alice Roberton on behalf of Roberton Real Estate, sharing her insights on making thoughtful choices in home textiles, focusing on sustainability, style, affordability, and longevity.

What should one consider when choosing sustainable textiles for home decorating?

I always ask myself a few questions – the first being, ‘do I really need it?’ and the second, ‘can I source it more sustainably?’ If I’m buying new, I consider: Who made it? Where is it made? How is it made? How do I look after it? How long should it last? And is it recyclable at the end of its life? When choosing, I would say: don’t just follow trends, and don’t rush into a purchase. Take your time and get it right the first time

What do well-chosen textiles add to a home, especially in a period property?

When a lot of thought has gone into choosing textiles for any home it really shows - one can feel it in the room. Different rooms require a unique approach, for example bedrooms are mostly seen as a place of calm and rest, so soft colours and whimsical prints create a relaxing environment. Well-chosen textiles definitely contribute to a home’s mood and atmosphere, from dramatic drapes framing glorious sash windows to plush cushions echoing a room’s grandeur textiles work hard to make a statement. There are so many good textile options for a period home however my first rule of thumb is to only buy what speaks to me.

What types of home decorating projects commonly incorporate textiles?

There are so many opportunities to introduce textiles into a room: upholstery, soft furnishings, curtains, blinds, headboards, and lampshades. The textiles you choose for your home should be pieces that reflect your personality. Much like your clothes, they should be thoughtfully selected and aligned with what is important to you, as well as the atmosphere you want to create in that space. This can be challenging with off-the-peg pieces, as they are designed to appeal to the masses rather than reflect individual personalities. While they can certainly have a place in a home, the true magic lies in choosing each element of a furnished room with care and intention.

Do you have any advice for selecting curtains that balance versatility and longevity?

Opting for a neutral or classic striped high-quality fabric is a fantastic choice for curtains, especially if you’re not planning to stay in your current home or are preparing for a move. For a bespoke touch, you could add a trim that can be easily removed and replaced later. Curtains can also be taken up to fit new spaces and asking your curtain maker to include a deep seam allows for added length when needed. By choosing quality textiles, you ensure your curtains remain durable and stylish for years to come.

Can quality and affordability go hand in hand?

Very often, yes – the saying ‘you get what you pay for’ is particularly relevant when it comes to textiles. I would always encourage aiming for the best quality product, as it will last much longer. I liken this to buying antique furniture which is often made to a higher standard than modern-day furniture and can even be more affordable than a new piece. While it may take a little more time to source textiles that are both well-made and reasonably priced, there are brands that deliver on both fronts. The textiles we feature on the Haines website are selected for their quality and affordability.

Can you tell us about some of the brands that Haines collaborates with?

Fermoie is fantastic for high-quality, timeless designs in beautiful colours. The Romo Linara range is an excellent option for high-quality plains at an attractive price point. Romo is also a brand making strides in sustainability – their Kirkby Design range is particularly impressive, offering a selection of voiles made from Aloe plants. We also work closely with Lorfords and their sister company, Lorfords Contemporary. Lorfords holds Europe’s largest collection of decorative antiques, while Lorfords Contemporary specialises in handmade upholstery crafted in the Cotswolds. With one eye on luxurious comfort and the other on sustainability, they align perfectly with Haines. Additionally, some go-to brands for my own home include The Soho Lighting Co. which offers a range made from recycled plastic collected from the beaches of Cornwall; Naturalmat for beds and mattresses with all-natural fillings; and Edward Bulmer Natural Paints, known for their natural, toxin-free paints in stunning heritage colours.

Many thanks to Jules Haines for taking the time to speak to Roberton Real Estate. For more information visit hainescollection.co.uk

You can find interiors writer Alice Roberton at instagram.com/alice.roberton

Images: Mark Anthony Fox