When designer Paola McDonald heard that the Sustainable Furnishings Council had launched an interior-design competition to mark its 10th anniversary, she was in the midst of an eco-friendly makeover in DC. “My client wanted her home to be as environmentally friendly as it could be, within a budget,” recalls McDonald, principal of Virginia-based Olamar Interiors.

After finishing the house with a chic mix of sustainable furniture, flooring and rugs, McDonald entered the #GetYourGreenOn contest—and won first place. She and other winners were honored at the 2016 High Point Market and also headlined a design panel at the Las Vegas Market on January 22, 2017.

McDonald points out that sustainability, affordability and style are not mutually exclusive. “The Sustainable Furnishings Council narrows down manufacturers that are doing great things for the environment,” she says. “These manufacturers are also committed to making strong, beautiful pieces that last a long time.”

By eliminating the VOCs and off-gassing associated with conventional furnishings, indoor air quality—and health—can be improved. “If we make these small changes now,” McDonald asserts, “we can start to impact on a larger scale the type of world we leave behind for our children.” olamarinteriors.com; sustainablefurnishings.org