Sustainability and the future of our planet are a vitally important part of the furnishings and design conversation today and more and more companies are working to make sustainable and climate-neutral products and practices the norm. As we celebrate Earth Day this year, we’re sharing some of the notable pieces that have recently crossed our desks.
The Outpost Bed Frame | Parachute
Fans of Parachute are well aware of the company’s dedication to the future of the planet. The overall company is Climate Neutral Certified, works with Fair Trade Certified partners, and follows a mantra of “Happy Home, Happy Planet.” The assortment at this eco-conscious company has expanded to include its first-ever wood bed frame. Designed by Parachute founder Ariel Kaye, The Outpost’s minimalist, California-cool style was inspired by nature and marries a casual, low-profile with solid hardwood, durable mortise-and-tenon joints, and Parachute’s signature soft, curved corners.
Aliante Display Cabinet | Rimadesio
Crafted via a solar-powered production process, Aliante pairs 100 percent recycled and recyclable glass and aluminum with cruelty-free synthetic leather components. The thin frame lends the illusion of individual components that float on air and the wood exterior is treated with Ecolorsystem—the company’s own range of water-based, hazard-free paints.
Bit Recycled Plastic Stool | MOMA Design Store
Recycled goods transform into functional art in the Bit Recycled stool from MOMA Design Store. The lightweight, playful piece is composed of 100 percent recyclable Low Density Polyethylene Industrial Waste and the technique that achieves its colorful, speckled results is as interesting as the finished piece. Bits of recycled household and industrial plastic are processed at a very low heat that allows them to meld together but stops short of melting them into a monochromatic mass.
Bok Collection | Ethnicraft
Ethnicraft’s vision for the future of sustainability focuses on designing for circularity and lengthening product lifespans. That dedication is evident in the growing Bok Collection. Designed by Alain van Havre, the graceful line is crafted of teak, selected as much for its durability and long-lasting traits as for its beauty. The design itself takes its cues from one of nature’s creatures with its lines reminiscent of a goat’s slim legs and curved horns.
Häcker Kitchens
Taking a complete approach, Häcker Kitchens’ entire product portfolio is climate neutral. That commitment translates to water-based coatings, recycled materials in both products and packaging, and a climate-neutral production process. Working to honor its mantra of “Responsible by Tradition,” the company also has made participation in local nature conservation and social projects a priority.
Condesa Cabinet | Arhaus
From day one, the mission at Arhaus has included avoiding wood from rainforests and partnering with artisans who share its commitment to offer a second chance to materials that normally would be directed to a landfill. In its Condesa Collection, artisan partners in Mexico hand-carve the engineered hardwood fronts and a burl wood veneer is sealed to the surface for added dimension. The result is a warm, textural appearance where the hand of the expert craftsperson is evident.
Plank Collection | Fritz Hansen
Designed by Aurelian Barbry, the Plank Collection was created with minimal materials and heightened functionality in mind. The designer wanted to imbue the line with an airy, playful, and modern vibe and the expansion of the collection is a testament to that endeavor. With the outdoors in mind, Plank is crafted of FSC-certified teak that will morph to a silvery grey patina over time.
Water Illusion by Assia Karaguiozova | Poltrona Frau
The Water Illusion line of decorative pieces was designed by Assia Karaguiozova for Poltrona Frau and is crafted entirely of recycled glass. Handmade in Italy, the line comes to life through the “cast glass” technique, where crystal and recycled glass are melted in crucibles. The resultant pieces in the line are thick, transparent, and smooth to the touch, but with internal ripples that relay a wavy effect in the glass itself and in the shadows the pieces cast.
Coeur d’Alene Wood
In a case where necessity did indeed lead to invention, the sustainable wood products from Coeur d’Alene came about due to challenges faced in efforts to source quality, reclaimed wood. The company created its own solution and developed a patented, non-toxic finishing process that turns to the natural elements—sun, soil, water, and wind—instead of VOCs and other toxic offenders. The result is durable, affordable, chemical-free wood that is safe for use indoors and out.
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