Top 5 Affordable Eco-Friendly Sofas & Chairs

As of October 1, 2010, all of these items are sold out. Click here for more affordable, eco-friendly seating options that are currently available.

As you all well know, eco-friendly upholstered furniture can definitely lean toward the unaffordable for many people. While I would be willing to cut back and save up for an $8000 sofa that will likely last my family a lifetime (perhaps even several), I know that there are lots of readers who won’t, or can’t, do that. If you still want to go green, but not at so high a cost, here are some great sustainable furniture options.

Montego Navy Pennyback Sofa

This sofa is the least expensive on the list and it is dripping with retro style. Covered in deep blue microfiber, it features a tufted back complete with covered buttons. I can envision it in a stark, minimal monochromatic room adorned with white pillows.  It looks a bit like it would have been at home in a 70s-era basement family room with wood paneling behind it, but it has a lot more style. It would be great in a small apartment or room, because the armless style will make it feel less bulky. A matching armless chair is available for $599.

• Why It’s Green: Made in the U.S. using sustainably harvested hardwoods, soy-based cushions and recycled steel springs and covered in microfiber that is Oeko-Tex 100 certified.
• Price: $999 (aff)
• Update as of 5/24/09: No longer available in Navy, but available in two neutrals for the same price: Latte and Cocoa. (aff)

Tonto Sofa

This is a beautiful, classically-designed sofa that I have absolutely fallen in love with. From the taut cushions to the chocolate brown upholstery and gold nailhead detail, everything about this sofa screams “expensive” — except for the price. At just $1099, I’m honestly surprised that this sofa has as many green qualities as it does. The matching chair in a complimentary, modern floral fabric (shown above) is available for $599.

• Why It’s Green: Made In North Carolina using sustainably harvested hardwoods, soy-based cushions and recycled steel springs
• Price: $1099 (aff)

Zipper-Stripe Biscuit Sofa

I love the subtle stripe featured on this elegant sofa with nailhead trim. It’s not exactly the ideal sofa for a family with young children, because I doubt the light color would stay that way for very long. But it would probably be great for a single person or childless couple, or for a family with older children. The style is very traditional, but I’ve always been a fan of mixing styles. With the right accessories, like some fun throw pillows, it could easily be used in a contemporary space. You can also get the matching loveseat for $999 and chair for $599.

• Why It’s Green: Made in the U.S. using sustainably harvested hardwoods, soy-based cushions and recycled steel springs and covered in microfiber that is Oeko-Tex 100 certified.
• Price: $1099(aff)

Timucuan Sofa

I’m not sure if I personally like the lines or color of this sofa, but one thing is certain — it will definitely give your room a vibrant, unique vibe. It is a unique interpretation of a classic Charles of London sofa. Covered in chartreuse organic cotton, it features back cushions with a scalloped silhouette and spindly legs with a hand-carved look. It feels eclectic and bohemian, though the tailored pleats along the arms (which identify it as a Charles of London sofa) give it a sophisticated edge. This is a great price for a sofa that is as unique as you are. A matching chair in a neutral stripe is available for $649.

• Why It’s Green: Made In North Carolina using sustainably harvested hardwoods, soy-based cushions and recycled steel springs. It is upholstered in 100% organic cotton canvas, and the fabric mill donates portion of each sale to The Nature Conservancy.
• Price: $1199 (aff)

Captivia Everglades Sofa

If you love all things mid-century modern, this sofa will definitely appeal to your taste. The Captivia Everglades sofa features the clean lines and spindly legs that are so common in mid-century design, along with a vibrant floral pattern that will ensure it is the focal point of your room.  You have to have an adventurous sense of style to be comfortable with a print quite this busy. The matching chair is available for $599.

• Why It’s Green: Made In North Carolina using sustainably harvested hardwoods, soy-based cushions and recycled steel springs. It is upholstered in 100% organic cotton canvas, and the fabric mill donates portion of each sale to The Nature Conservancy. The manufacturer is also a member of the Sustainable Furnishings Council.
• Price: $1199 (aff)