Sophie Martin

For two months, we worked with D’Ieteren at their Guldendelle site to manage the removal of office furniture in a responsible and sustainable way. The goal was simple: prioritize reuse, reduce waste, and ensure that every piece found the best possible outcome. 

Of the 855 items collected, 751 were successfully rehoused, extending their lifespan in new offices and non-profits - an impressive reuse rate of over 87,8%. Another 11,9% were recycled, keeping non-reusable pieces out of landfills. This approach prevented 63,4 tons of CO₂ emissions, equivalent to the production of nearly 100 new office chairs. 

Why sustainable furniture removal matters 

Office removals can generate an enormous amount of waste if not handled responsibly. Without a clear strategy, thousands of high-quality furniture pieces risk ending up in landfills - despite being perfectly reusable. By taking a circular approach, businesses can significantly reduce their environmental footprint while also creating social and economic value. 

At D’Ieteren Guldendelle, the removal process was carefully managed to maximize reuse and recycling, proving that office transitions don’t have to come at the cost of sustainability. 

A smarter way to handle office clear-outs 

One of the standout aspects of this project was the opportunity for D’Ieteren employees to take home some of the furniture, giving desks, chairs, and storage units a second life with those who had used them daily. This added another layer of sustainability, ensuring even more furniture stayed in use rather than going to waste. 

More broadly, this project is a great example of how companies can rethink office removals - not as a waste challenge, but as an opportunity to extend the lifecycle of furniture. Every removal case presents a chance to reduce waste, lower costs, and contribute to a more sustainable economy. If your company is planning an office move or downsizing, let’s work together to ensure your furniture gets a second life instead of ending up as waste. Sustainable removals aren’t just an option - they’re a necessity for the future. 

At D’Ieteren’s Guldendelle site, hundreds of furniture items were kept in use instead of going to waste. With reuse and recycling as the focus, the project proves that office removals can be both practical and sustainable.

D’Ieteren Guldendelle: a sustainable office furniture removal done right

For over four decades, Cochlear has been at the forefront of revolutionizing hearing technology, empowering individuals worldwide to reconnect with sound. Founded in 1981, this pioneering company has shaped the industry with its cutting-edge cochlear implants, bone-anchored hearing aids, and innovative solutions for hearing loss. Today, Cochlear holds an impressive 50% share of the global cochlear implant market, a testament to its unwavering commitment to excellence and transformative impact on lives. 

But Cochlear’s vision extends beyond hearing solutions - it embraces a holistic approach to innovation, sustainability, and workplace well-being. Just as circularity is reshaping the way we think about furniture and office design, Cochlear is reimagining its own workspaces to foster creativity, collaboration, and environmental responsibility. 

At Cochlear, sustainability isn’t just a principle - it’s a practice. The company is actively integrating circular economy principles into its offices, embracing second-life furniture and rethinking traditional workspaces. The goal? To create an environment where employees feel inspired, comfortable, and connected, mirroring the transformative impact Cochlear has on its users’ lives. 

By incorporating refurbished and repurposed office furniture, Cochlear is reducing its carbon footprint while maintaining a sleek, modern aesthetic. Sustainability is no longer an afterthought - it’s embedded in the company’s culture. 

Recognizing that innovation thrives in dynamic environments, Cochlear is moving away from rigid office layouts. Chill-out zones with comfortable seating, greenery-filled common areas, and flexible workstations are designed to encourage both productivity and relaxation. 

“As our organization grew, our Mechelen office became fully occupied with over 250 people, including 100 on a single floor. A smarter, more flexible workspace was essential, and moving to a hybrid setup required the right furniture. That’s when we discovered Relieve Furniture!” 

Just as Cochlear’s technology empowers individuals to fully engage with the world, its workspaces are designed to support employees in doing their best work. By embracing circular design principles, the company reinforces its commitment to making a lasting impact - both in the hearing solutions industry and in corporate sustainability. 

Every element of Cochlear’s evolving workspace tells a story - of renewal, responsibility, and forward-thinking design. As the company continues to push the boundaries of hearing technology, it is also setting a new standard for how businesses can operate with sustainability and well-being at the core. By bridging the gap between innovation and circularity, Cochlear is proving that workspaces, like hearing solutions, can be both functional and transformative.

Cochlear is rethinking its workspaces with sustainability at the core - embracing second-life furniture and circular design. This shift not only reduces environmental impact but also fosters collaboration, creativity, and well-being across their offices.

Cochlear’s commitment beyond sound

Roxanne Badart

In their testimony, Ogilvy demonstrates their persistent dedication to sustainability by creatively recycling 90 corporate furniture items ranging from acoustic panels to bench seats, cabinets, chairs and table and created one more example for ethical business practices. They deserve praise for their admirable commitment to having a beneficial impact on the environment.

Ogilvy demonstrates their persistent dedication to sustainability by creatively recycling 90 corporate furniture items ranging from acoustic panels to bench seats, cabinets, chairs and tables

Ogilvy's successful office move with Relieve

Marie-Paule Fassin

Lenovo maintains a constant commitment to sustainability through their business practices. That's why when they need to get rid of certain items of furniture in their Brussels offices, they knew if handle incorrectly they would miss their opportunity to turn these unwanted items in positive climate impact.

By choosing to partner with Relieve furniture, Lenovo was able to recycle all 52 pieces of office furniture, finding second homes for through the circular economy, including of a dozen NGO's and charities. They established a powerful example for moral business conduct and having a positive effect on the environment. They should be commended for their efforts, which are a strong inspiration for others to adopt environmentally friendly habits.

We partnered with Lenovo to help them remove over 50 pieces of unwanted office furniture.

Lenovo chose to turn their unwanted office furniture into positive climate imapct

As we look back on 2024, it’s clear that this year has been one of significant growth and achievement for Relieve Furniture. We’ve continued to redefine what it means to create sustainable work environments, partnering with organizations across various industries to adopt circular economy practices while minimizing their environmental impact. Our commitment to driving sustainability forward has shaped not only the way we work but also the way we influence others in our field.

Throughout the year, we made great progress in advancing our mission, and the results speak for themselves. From the number of items we successfully rehoused to the carbon emissions we helped avoid, 2024 has been a year of progress, impact, and positive change.

68 companies assisted: including names such as Belfius, D’Ieteren, GBL, ING, Sony, Latham & Walkins, Nethys , Rothchilds & co, ...

These numbers reflect our consistent efforts to create a circular, sustainable economy within the office furniture sector. Whether it’s finding a second life for used desks and chairs or ensuring that materials are responsibly recycled, every project we undertake is an opportunity to reduce waste, conserve resources, and minimize environmental impact.

From sustainable actions to transformative partnerships

One of the key pillars of our work this year has been the formation of transformative partnerships that not only promote sustainability but also have a lasting impact on communities and businesses alike.

We’ve had the privilege of partnering with nonprofits supporting underprivileged schools, providing them with pre-loved desks and chairs. This initiative has not only offered cost-effective solutions to schools in need but also reinforced the importance of sustainable practices in shaping future generations. The impact goes beyond simply furnishing classrooms; it’s about teaching young people the value of reusing and recycling, helping them to better understand the role sustainability plays in their daily lives and the broader world.

At the same time, we’ve been able to assist multinational companies in downsizing their office spaces. Through careful planning and execution, we successfully rehoused or recycled over 80% of their furniture, significantly reducing their landfill waste. This project exemplified the level of detail and strategy that goes into ensuring that as many items as possible are reused or recycled, highlighting how sustainability can be integrated seamlessly into business operations.

On average, more than half of the items from each project were reused, setting new benchmarks for sustainable office relocations. These efforts are a clear demonstration of how thoughtful, responsible practices can drive significant change, not just for businesses but for the environment as well.

Our commitment to innovation and environmental responsibility didn’t go unnoticed. In 2024, Relieve Furniture was proud to receive 2nd place in both the Belgium Impact Awards and the Trends Impact Awards. These recognitions are a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team, and they serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of staying true to our mission.

Receiving recognition from two respected industry awards, is not just an achievement but an inspiration to continue pushing the boundaries of sustainable office solutions. As we continue to innovate and redefine the future of office furniture, we’re motivated to do even more to help companies and organizations reduce their environmental footprint.

This year, we’ve made significant progress in advancing sustainability through a series of impactful projects. Each initiative has not only helped us grow as a company but also reinforced our belief in the power of sustainable office solutions.

Our work with nonprofits, businesses, and large corporations has been instrumental in promoting a circular economy. We’ve made it our mission to offer solutions that align with the values of sustainability, all while providing quality furniture at an affordable price. These projects exemplify how sustainable practices can go hand in hand with practical business solutions.

Through these partnerships, we’ve been able to reduce landfill waste significantly. The more furniture we successfully rehoused or recycled, the greater our impact on the environment. In 2024, we saved over 236,494 tonnes of CO2, which is a major step toward our long-term goal of reducing the carbon footprint of office relocations.

Additionally, the demand for sustainable removal solutions has seen a sharp increase. This year, we experienced a threefold increase in revenue compared to 2023, highlighting the growing recognition among businesses for the value of green solutions. Companies are increasingly turning to us, understanding that sustainability is not just a trend but a necessity for a future-proof business strategy.

The rise in demand for our services has further solidified Relieve Furniture’s role in leading the shift toward more sustainable practices in the office furniture industry. As more companies turn to us for their sustainable office solutions, we continue to strengthen our position as pioneers in this space, helping to pave the way for a more circular and eco-friendly future.

We’re filled with excitement and anticipation for the opportunities that lie ahead. We are determined to continue innovating and pushing boundaries, and we’re eager to collaborate with more organizations that are ready to embrace sustainability in their office environments.

If you’re looking to transform your workspace sustainably, source premium pre-loved furniture, or partner on groundbreaking initiatives that will shape the future of work, we’re here to help you make it happen. At Relieve Furniture, we believe that a sustainable future begins with the choices we make today. 

In 2024, Relieve Furniture transformed workspaces sustainably, partnering with major brands, supporting nonprofits, and promoting a circular economy. The results speak for themselves - from reducing waste to giving quality furniture a second life, we’ve made a lasting impact.

2024 YEAR IN REVIEW: Pioneering Sustainable Workspaces with Relieve Furniture

Nestled in the heart of Ixelles, this prestigious law firm sought a refined office environment that reflected both their heritage and forward-thinking values. Sustainability was a core consideration, but aesthetics remained paramount. Relieve Furniture took on the challenge of creating a sophisticated, high-end workspace using exclusively second-life furniture while seamlessly integrating these pieces with the firm's existing range.

This project required more than just sustainable solutions - it demanded a thoughtful curation of high-quality, pre-owned furniture that would enhance the law firm’s elegance and prestige. Every piece had to be chosen with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring it complemented the firm’s existing architecture and design vision.

Relieve Furniture undertook a tailored approach, sourcing and refurbishing premium second-life furniture to seamlessly blend into the firm’s sophisticated interior. Our team carefully mapped out the office layout, strategically placing each item to maintain both visual harmony and functional efficiency.

Curated Selection: Office chairs, handcrafted wooden desks, tables, and meeting and dining chairs were handpicked to align with the firm's boutique aesthetic.

Seamless Integration: Each item was positioned to complement the firm’s existing décor, ensuring a polished and cohesive look.

Sustainability Impact: Through this project, we prevented 2.9 tons of CO₂ emissions by repurposing and revitalizing furniture that would have otherwise gone to waste.

The final design delivers an inviting yet professional atmosphere, where sustainability and luxury coexist. This project demonstrates that second-life furniture can achieve more than just environmental benefits - it can also elevate a workspace’s elegance and character. The law firm now enjoys a meticulously designed office that stands as a testament to both their prestige and their commitment to sustainability.

By blending sustainability with high-end design, Relieve Furniture successfully transformed this Ixelles-based law firm’s workspace. This case study reinforces our belief that second-life furniture can not only meet but exceed the expectations of even the most discerning clients.

Interested in creating a boutique, sustainable office space? Get in touch with us to bring your vision to life.

This law firm furnished its offices with 75 pieces of second-life furniture, preventing 2.9 tons of CO₂ emissions while optimizing existing resources.

Sustainable furniture for law firm in Ixelles

Right next to the Groenendael train station, a new coworking space, the Tero project, is emerging, promising to quickly become a leading example of innovation in sustainable development. This first coworking space is almost entirely furnished with second-hand furniture, highlighting a unique approach to reuse and recycling while maintaining a high level of quality and aesthetics.

Tero & The Woods: Leading the Way in Sustainable Coworking with Innovative Second-Hand Furnishings

Arthur Lhoist

Right next to the Groenendael train station, a new coworking space, the Tero project, is emerging, promising to quickly become a leading example of innovation in sustainable development. This first coworking space is almost entirely furnished with second-hand furniture, highlighting a unique approach to reuse and recycling while maintaining a high level of quality and aesthetics. The recycled furniture, which looks brand new, is not only sustainable but also demonstrates a deep commitment to the principles of the circular economy.

Arthur Lhoist, the manager of the site, explains the positive impact of this approach: "By carefully selecting our furnishings, we have managed to create a space that is both beautiful and functional, at a fraction of the cost of new." He also notes that this approach has reduced the carbon footprint associated with furnishing the place by 90%, a significant step for the planet.

The Weave IMMO agency played a key role in supporting this project, from sustainable conviction to the meticulous selection of office furniture. Virginie, a representative of the agency, shares her enthusiasm: "The project went very well, and the promise of circularity did not hinder aesthetics. On the contrary, it gives the project soul."

The space is designed to encourage collaboration and innovation. With more than 60% of the area dedicated to common spaces, it naturally fosters interactions and creative flow among members. "The environment in which we work can greatly influence how we work. Here, the layout and atmosphere encourage open and continuous collaboration," shares a regular member.

The story behind the furniture is as rich as the place itself. Each piece tells a story of reuse and repurposing, daily reminding users of the importance of sustainability. It is an approach that, according to Arthur, requires clear planning and understanding of goals from the start. "Being clear about our intentions and expectations was fundamental to the success of this project," he adds.

Arthur hopes that this space will serve as a catalyst for other office space developments, thus fostering a wave of changes in the professional sector towards more sustainable practices.

In the end, this coworking space does not just provide offices; it offers a vision of the future of the work environment: a place where efficiency, aesthetics, and environmental ethics meet to create a truly innovative and inspiring space.

In the heart of Liège, Belgium, Novacities embarked on a pioneering journey to establish "La Menuiserie," a co-working space that redefines the standards for sustainable design and community engagement. Their vision is to create an environment that not only fosters collaboration and flexibility but does so through uncompromising eco-friendly practices.

Creating the future of sustainable work spaces with Novacities and Relieve Furniture

Sixtine Deharlez

In the heart of Liège, Belgium, Novacities embarked on a pioneering journey to establish "La Menuiserie," a co-working space that redefines the standards for sustainable design and community engagement. Their vision is to create an environment that not only fosters collaboration and flexibility but does so through uncompromising eco-friendly practices. Relieve Furniture, with our innovative circular platform for office furniture, was selected as a key partner in turning this vision into reality, showcasing the transformative power of sustainability in the workplace.

The ambitious project aimed to outfit La Menuiserie with furniture that aligns with the space's core principles of 100% sustainable architecture. This included stringent requirements for eco-friendly materials, such as hemp interior paint, low consumption lighting and heating, wood fiber insulation, and, critically, second-life office furniture. The goal was to create a space that not only facilitates social connections and offers flexible working environments but also exemplifies green architecture. The challenge was to find a partner capable of meeting these high standards of sustainability without compromising on quality or affordability.

Relieve Furniture was selected by Novacities for proven expertise in providing sustainable, quality, and affordable furniture solutions. Our dedicated project manager worked closely with Novacities to fully understand their needs and vision for La Menuiserie, ensuring that every piece of furniture sourced aligned with their eco-friendly ethos.

Personalized Consultation: Through in-depth consultations, we captured the essence of Novacities' vision for an eco-conscious co-working space.

Sourcing Sustainable Furniture: We utilized our extensive network to source over 80 pieces of high-quality, second-life office furniture that met Novacities' sustainability and aesthetic requirements.

Efficient Logistics and Setup: Our team arranged for the eco-efficient transport and strategic placement of furniture, transforming the space into a functional and inviting co-working environment.

The collaboration between Relieve Furniture and Novacities led to the successful establishment of La Menuiserie, a beacon of sustainability and community in the heart of Belgium. By placing over 80 items of second-life furniture, we not only furnished the space with pieces that have stories but also significantly reduced potential CO2 emissions and waste, underlining the project's environmental impact.

Sustainable Architecture Realized: Incorporating second-life furniture was a cornerstone of La Menuiserie's commitment to 100% sustainable architecture, contributing to a healthier planet.

Significant Cost and Environmental Savings: The project demonstrated how sustainable choices can lead to substantial financial savings and a reduction in carbon footprint.

Community and Flexibility: The arrangement and quality of the furniture fostered a dynamic environment conducive to social interactions and flexible work arrangements, promoting community within the space.

The success of La Menuiserie stands as a testament to the power of sustainable practices in transforming workspaces. Relieve Furniture's collaboration with Novacities highlights our commitment to environmental stewardship, quality, and innovation. By bridging the gap between sustainability and functionality, we pave the way for future projects to embrace green initiatives, proving that eco-friendly choices can lead to vibrant, dynamic, and inspiring work environments.