“Leeds has the best carboot sales in the UK”: Micaela Sharp answers the BRiMM Life Questionnaire
With an online course and best-selling book sharing her knowledge and expertise about upholstery, Micaela Sharp is no stranger to sharing her creative path and love of sustainable practices. Her creations celebrate colour, pattern and craftsmanship, as she believes these things enhance everyday objects and therefore our standard of living. After relocating to Spain a few years ago, she’s pursued more creative outlets and frequently hosts creative retreats at her home in the Malaga countryside. Next year she'll host her first luxury five-day creative retreat in Menorca. She is a firm believer in living differently and going your own way in life. Here are the inspiring ways she personally reduces her planetary impact.
What’s your latest low-impact life reset
“I’m currently trying to collect as many seeds from the garden and the organic food I buy as possible to plant next year. I also love taking a wicker basket to do my weekly shop.”
Favourite planet-positive products and why
“I’m a big fan of MooGoo hydrating face cleanser and the gentle exfoliating micro-powder. The brand use natural ingredients and are cruelty-free.”
Tell us your all-time top second-hand find
“Most of my favourite vintage pieces I inherited from my nan. Her silk scarf from Liberty is one I treasure.”
Favourite walking route
“I live in the countryside in Spain and love walking in the olive groves in any direction.”
Most beautiful cycle journey
“I’m hoping to cycle the length of Vietnam next year so that will top my list.”
What’s your most joyful weekend moment
“Most Sunday mornings I sit on my terrace and catch up on voice notes from friends with a herbal tea.”
Photography credit: Rukmini Lyer on The Happy Foodie
Plant-based dish of dreams
“Leek and puy lentil gratin with crunchy feta topping by Rukmini Iyer.”
Song that lights you up and the story behind it
“‘Golden’ by Jill Scott: it’s the song I dance to with my unofficial godson.”
The independent coffee shop that makes you happy
“Bun in Malaga for the vegan donuts and delicious matcha.”
Indie record store tip
“Sadly I don’t know anything about vinyl shopping but as I’ve now deleted Spotify it’s on my list to start a small collection.”
Second-hand store or market worth a mooch
“I adore a car boot and think that Leeds has some of the absolute best in the UK.”
Causes you give to
“PCRF.”
Photography credit: The Pound Project
Fave book or film that inspired you to make a change
“I just read Pathways by Leyla Kazim about her move to Portugal (published by The Pound Project), and watched Dark Waters – it’ll make you detoxify your kitchen.”
Person who inspires you and why
“So many people in my life inspire me. A close friend just moved to Pakistan for work. She's one of the most adventurous and curious people I know.”
Who is your planet-positive hero
“Sydney Piercey. Her book Sustainably Play is the tip of the iceberg of genius ways she protects and respects our planet.”
Quote to live by
“‘Just get on with it,’ a friend of mine said many moons ago when I was on the precipice of launching my own business.”
What gets you every time
“The images coming out of Gaza of the horrific genocide Israel is committing and the UK is backing.”
What is love
“Knowing we are all enough.”
Which issue do you care most about changing?
“Ending the occupation of Palestine.”
Do you have a message you’d love to share with the collective?
“We all have the power to make change.”
Do you have a playlist you’d like to share?
“‘It’s a Good Day’ by Shungudzo,
‘Step Into Your Power’ by Ray LaMontagne,
‘Gorilla’ by Lil Simz,
‘Sete’ by Fatoumata Diawara.”
Micaela is hosting a creative retreat in Menorca in May 2026. For all interior design enquiries, head to micaelasharpdesign.com and check out her book on Modern Upholstery
Now sign-up to The Planet Positive Edit, the free BRiMM newsletter and check out loads more low-impact living tips on our journal