Steadily evolving from buzz phrase to serious commitment, sustainable design is on an upward trajectory — and these 7 modern furniture and lighting brands are leading the way.
EMECO FURNITURE:
"Make More With Less"
In a throwaway culture, design that lasts a lifetime is an anomaly—but Emeco, a Pennsylvania-based maker of modern furniture, has been up to the task for nearly three-quarters of a century. The company's Navy Chair, created in 1944 for use on submarines, is still in production, employing a 77-step process in which recycled aluminum yields a near-indestructible object. The Broom Stacking Chair, a Phlippe Starck creation, comprised of polypropylene waste and reclaimed wood, and the 111 Navy Chair, which counts 111 plastic Coca-Cola bottles in its material composition, are tributes to both good design and eco responsibility.
DAVID TRUBRIDGE:
"Artistry From Nature"
By his own admission David Trubridge is 'not interested in trends or fashion,' but, luckily for us, Trubridge's eco-conscious design philosophy is more in fashion than ever. The New Zealand-based designer looks to the natural world for his creative inspiration, overseeing a collection of ethereal contemporary lamps—including the popular Coral Pendant, above—comprised of sustainably sourced bamboo. Shipped flat-packed, the David Trubridge lighting range fulfills the designer's desire to bring "cultural nourishment into people's lives without using up precious resources and energy."
CERNO:
"Efficiency, Quality and Beauty"
Cerno is a California-based modern lighting brand determined to keep its footprint compact by designing and manufacturing locally. Cerno designers leverage new technologies in service of efficient lamps, known for their clean, architectural forms, composed of walnut wood, metal and polymer elements. By keeping the designing-prototyping-manufacturing process entirely local, Cerno has produced a range of original contemporary lighting fixtures that reflect a love of hand-applied craft and mindful modern design.
CARL HANSEN & SON:
"Simple, Everyday Solutions"
A family-run Danish business, Carl Hansen & Søn offers handmade, timeless designs with a focus on beauty, functionality, craftsmanship and sustainability. Now in its third generation, Carl Hansen & Søn continues to bring that passion for creating iconic furniture designs into the 21st century with favorites like the Limited Edition CH24 Wishbone Chair and CH07 Shell Chair. In addition to working with the very best designers and the finest materials, Carl Hansen & Søn has been committed to sustainable development for many years, sourcing wood from responsibly managed forests and local sawmills, utilizing every piece of wood they source– even the scraps for heating fuel for local homes.
LOLL DESIGNS:
"Make the Environment Better
for Mankind"
Loll Designs, a Minnesota-based modern furniture company, has found a way to turn single-use milk jugs into stylish, durable outdoor furniture. By using 100% post-consumer plastic, Loll has created a range of striking outdoor seating and tables that may be the very definition of 'green' design. Equally at home in contemporary and traditional outdoor settings, the company's Adirondack Chair, is constructed from over 300 used milk jugs, ultimately yielding an object that itself is fully recyclable.
COPELAND FURNITURE:
"Preservation and Stewardship"
For the Vermont-based Copeland Furniture company, eco-friendly design is a local endeavor. Using sustainably managed North American hardwoods, sourced from within a 500 mile radius of the factory, Copeland leverages New England talent to produce contemporary furniture inspired by Vermont's natural beauty. Recognized by the Sustainable Furnishings Council (SFC) and the American Home Furnishings Alliance (AHFA) for its environmental stewardship, Copeland aims for furniture that transcends eras and lasts generations—and hits the mark every time.
NANIMARQUINA:
"Committed to Sustainable Development"
Known for visually inspiring and appealing rugs, this global, family-run company combines their love for creativity, quality, and innovation into every piece they create. Handcrafted by artisans, Nanimarquina ensures that the entire chain of creation, from the design conception to the choice of materials, processes and techniques, is as safe as possible for the environment. Supporting the fight against environmental degradation, many products use Eco-sheen & Jutex, which are biodegradable and chemical-free materials, while outdoor designs are crafted from 100% recycled PET for a lifetime of use.
