There’s a persistent idea in the industry that sustainable design always costs more. And while we understand where it comes from, it’s not what we see in practice.

The problem isn’t sustainability — it’s late-stage thinking. When sustainability is tacked on after the main decisions are made, it usually does cost more. You end up trying to retrofit good intentions into a process that’s already locked in.

But when circular strategies are embedded from the beginning - when material choices, layout, procurement and fabrication are aligned -  it’s a different story entirely.

For the Arup Brisbane HQ, we were brought in early to advise on materials. That meant we could help specify over 90 salvaged elements across joinery and furniture, and ensure the project’s sustainability ambitions were met without pushing beyond the commercial budget. In fact, much of what was delivered — including $150k of custom furniture made from local waste — came in below what conventional options would have cost.

Even on leaner projects, the principle holds. At Bond Street Office, the client had a limited budget but a strong vision. We reused as much of the existing structure as possible, sourced recycled materials from demolition yards, and prefabricated modular furniture that could be reused or relocated in future tenancies.

Designing with what’s already around us isn’t always easy. But it’s rarely more expensive — and often, it’s more rewarding. It takes flexibility, local knowledge, and a bit of creative constraint. But it leads to spaces that are more grounded, more enduring, and more aligned with the values clients are proud to share.

Reach out at studio@fivemileradius.org to explore how we can apply this thinking to your space.