A couple of years ago, as he wrapped up a dissertation on alternative energy, Nicola Giuggioli got serious about greening up his home.

What he really wanted was a one-stop shop. A green ‘hub’, where he could get advice and look at the options up close. But it didn’t exist. So Nicola created one.

Today, Eco-Age is arguably the UK’s prime resource on sustainability. A shop, showroom and consultancy, it offers ideas, inspiration, and everything from strawboard stools to computers made of sustainable timber and recycled plastic.

“We want to show people that you can move to sustainable without compromising on the aesthetics, the price or the materials.” says Giuggioli. The message is sinking in; business is brisk. New and established designers from around the world are now jostling to get their best work on the Eco-Age floor.

Being curious about design in all its forms, especially where new approaches and practices are emerging, we visited Eco-Age and asked Nicola what sustainability in design might mean…