Edamame-it's not just food.

As the world’s focus on environmental sustainability quickly increases, that of the interior design world does as well. In choosing furniture, we at the Sofa Company believe you shouldn’t have to sacrifice style, comfort, or options in order to maintain a green lifestyle. That’s why we are now offering yet another option for filling your new sofa, loveseat, or chair: Foamex’s Reflex Natural foam, an innovative filling solution that combines three unique characteristics into one great product.

(1) Petroleum–based materials that are usually used in foam are replaced with plant based, renewable, raw materials. These natural materials are super durable and comfortable, and you can rest easily on your new sofa knowing that after you’re done with it, a significant portion of it is recyclable. 

(2) Foamex’s unique Variable Pressure Foaming (VPF) technology is used in manufacturing Reflex Natural, cutting down a great deal of emissions that usually go along with making foam. Lucky for you, this technique also creates a much higher quality cushion, with your choice of firmness and density, for the ultimate personalized comfort level.

(3) The Reflex Natural foam contains halogen-free fire retardants, which are not only much less hazardous to the environment, they also provide improved retarding of flame spread and smoke development.

Thank you to the Sofa Company for educating me about Soy foam seats. They were also very honest about the fact that the product is too new to truly test the resiliency-BUT-soy foam in an inexpensive "upgrade" so its very little risk. Considering how many hours we spend sitting and breathing on our sofas, its worth it. 

Disclaimer: Edamame are cooked baby soybeans and not actually made into foam :)

 

Seeking Reincarnation

Recycled Venetian Blinds? Who knew? 

Table 433 utilizes a new recycled material called BLINDWood which is entirely sourced from venetian blind offcuts. The table consists of 433 elements which are hand selected and laminated, giving the design its unique look. Unlike other offcut materials, this laminate is not recognizable as an offcut material, but overwhelms the viewer with its visual appeal.

I picture this in front of a Crate and Barrel Petrie Sofa.

It seems this Aussie creation is no longer available, according to DieFabrik's website.A truly green product, the table came in 2 sizes but could be shipped flat packed-in furniture speak this cuts down on transportation costs, shipping, taking up space on boats/trucks, etc.

The words "reclaimed wood" have become so trendy that credibility is ignored. It's a bit of a design tease as well, insinuating  all things eco-friendly, responsible, and green are created equal. That hipster reclaimed wood coffee table from India put a whole lot of emissions into the air-both in the chemicals they sprayed on it to the diesel burned by the freighter and freight truck. No verifiable information as to what was reclaimed or why. It's as green as cash. Buy it because you love the piece, hope it was actually created from otherwise wasted wood, and move on.

If you are looking for a greener shade of responsibility, look for recycled products. Perhaps we will see more products like the inspiring Table 433 come back to life on our side of the pond once vendors see a growing market.

P.S. When the PC police come looking for me, please raise bail $ by taking your recyclables in for cash. :)

Keep on Keeping On

Every now and then a bit of well timed inspiration finds you.

Thank you, Inhabit
Made from 100% sustainable recycled polyester. Handprinted and handmade in the USA with environmentally-friendly inks with no chemical waste or disposal generated. All paper waste from this process is repurposed as shredded packing material. Product is recyclable at the end of its life-cycle.

Eco-whimsy

Eco-Whimsical Fun.

Our tree hugging hearts needed a vacation from all things serious this week.

We sought out sources of contagious smiles. Recycling is one of the most enviromentally responsible things we can do. It's also a way to add some character and personality to your home.

I dedicate this post to my sister Briana, whose heart and personality will identify with all products and philosophies mentioned below.

images courtesy of Ballard Designs
You can create a lamp out of a wine bottle or demijohn bottle. While there are many different DIY projects out there, Ballard Designs provides the quickest route from empty magnum champagne bottle to lamp, and it's the safest too (less chance of cutting or gluing oneself to the project). Trust me, I have tested this theory.

Matt Car for Umbra created this clock, the teacups are vintage and picked by hand. Limited Edition of 500 in White, 200 in black Retails around $300. contact is 800.387.5122

When I was little I had an Aunt Laura who had a collection of vintage cups and saucers in a cabinet. This reminds me of her and each cup has a history.

As a designer I often meet clients who have collections of....well....random stuff. There is a way to incorporate each client's hobbies and collectibles. Some are best displayed formally, and some are simply to be enjoyed, and even giggled at.

Whimsy from across the pond...

Fabulous English website, Bouf

"Max the bath tub chaise. A contemporary twist on the sofa briefly featured in breakfast at Tiffany's. Created from a vintage cast iron bath and upholstered in fabric of your choice. Perfectly formed for single seater slouching or sofa for two. available in your choice of colours and fabrics hand made in the UK .Max McMurdo is the entrepeneur who successfully featured on dragons den with his eco creations. He re-purposes every day waste items such as trolleys into chairs, baths into sofas and desks made from plane wings. eco has never been so cool. "

Bloom felt rug
From Selina Rose

" Intricately cut felt rug in charcoal grey featuring floral cut outs. This product is made from 100% wool felt and dyed using eco friendly dyes, the felt is sustainable and biodegradable. So the rug will not only look great on your floor but is kind to the environment. "

Good night.

It was a drive by in LA! not to worry...

Original Art + Furniture + Going For It = WOW

image courtesy of www.revcointernational.com

Jaxon Home is LA is constantly updating their showroom floor and window displays to keep their showroom Fresh. They are known for having an eclectic mix of styles, all of it quality. The down to earth attitudes and no pressure vibe of the showroom is refreshing.

Pictured above are pieces by Interior Designer Candice Olson and Artist Aaron Foster. Her furniture, his one of a kind pieces of art (reclaimed and recycled materials), but the presentation is out of the box, stylish, and oh so Jaxon Home.