“My hope is to set a new standard for what it means to feel at home.” –Akshay Bahl, Delara founder
Delara
A few years ago, Akshay Bahl began to see just how disposable the home goods industry had become. During the process of moving apartments, he realized he was discarding barely used bedding, towels and rugs simply because they had worn out quickly or fallen out of style. “It was clear that everyday essentials were being treated as disposable, with little thought for quality, longevity or the environment,” he says. Synthetic, mass-produced products, often chemically treated, dominated the market.
Around the same time, on a trip to India, Bahl visited an organic cotton farm and met artisans dedicated to sustainable, traditional practices. “Seeing firsthand how their work uplifted entire communities opened my eyes,” he says.
Bahl founded Delara with a clear mission: to create sustainable home essentials that combine comfort with sustainability. “We believe in responsible sourcing, meticulous craftsmanship, and the idea that luxury should be both accessible and gentle on the planet.” In a nutshell: “My hope is to set a new standard for what it means to feel at home.”
Material selection is deliberate: Merino wool is prized for its softness and temperature regulation. Organic cotton is a staple for its breathability and lack of harmful chemicals. Recycled plastic is transformed into machine-washable rugs. “Each rug gives a second life to dozens of bottles that might otherwise end up in landfills or oceans,” says Bahl. Eucalyptus and linen also feature in the product line, chosen for their comfort and sustainability.
The company uses low-impact dyes, compostable or recyclable packaging, and avoids synthetics unless recycled; all its cotton bedding and towels are GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) certified. “We don’t cut corners.”
Delara prioritizes direct relationships with ethical mills. It also offers customers full transparency into its practices. “Few brands were both accessible and fully open about their sourcing practices,” he says. “With Delara, we’re changing that.”
An eye towards the future is essental. “We design with a timeless mindset,” Bahl says. “Our products aren’t just beautiful now, they’re made to be loved for years.” The use of classic patterns and neutral palettes is designed to outlast seasonal trends and reduce waste.
Among Delara’s innovative offerings is a 3-in-1 wool duvet—two duvets of different weights that can be used separately or snapped together for year-round use. Another is the 3-in-1 wool pillow, adjustable for height and support with a moisture-wicking Merino wool surface. “We put a lot of thought into these kinds of details.”
The sustainable design movement is here to stay, says Bahl. “Design in the sustainable home goods space is becoming much more holistic. Sustainability is now integrated from the very first sketch, not just added at the end.”
When timeless design takes the place of fast trends, everyone benefits. “The future is about combining beauty, function and responsibility in every detail.”