Clever Bio-Tool Made From Red Cabbage Detects If Your Water Is Contaminated

California-based artist, designer, and former high school teacher Melissa Ortiz recently developed something pretty cool. Dubbed ‘Colores del Rio’, this bio-device was designed to check if your water is contaminated or not! Colores del Rio translates to colors of the river, and it is an ingenious tool created from red cabbage waste sourced from a local agricultural community. The design also recently won an award for “outstanding social critique” at the Biodesign Challenge 2023.

Designer: Melissa Ortiz

“This community engagement tool is Biodesign-activism in response to local systemic issues involving the monoculture industry, the Salinas River watershed, and impacted communities. Colores del Rio combines community engagement and a human-environment relationship through citizen science,” said Ortiz. Colores del Rio is designed to function as a bioregional engagement tool, that specifically works for a farming community in the Salinas area of California. It encourages them to explore and look deeper into the food systems that affect them and sheds light on the potential of repurposing locally discarded food waste into a viable bio-material.

Ortiz picked cabbage as her choice of material, as the natural chemicals found in cabbage make the vegetable change color when it comes in contact with acidic water (pinkish-red), or alkaline water (yellow-green). Ortiz collected the cabbage from a local waste stream and worked side by side with local high school students to boil it, dehydrate it, grind it into a powder, and mix it up with some xanthan gum which functions as a binding agent.

Ortiz says that this unique and innovative environmental justice tool is a boon for the future, as it encourages the younger generations to step into the role of water and land protectors. They simply need to place Colores del Rio in a nearby body of water, and they can assess what pH colors emerge, and evaluate whether the water is contaminated or not, and if it is ultimately a threat to the community. “It invites the next generation of youth leadership to actively participate in biodesign, citizen science, and environmental justice, giving local food waste another life that is regenerative and supportive of people and ecosystems,” concludes Ortiz.

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Revamping Urban Pedestrian Spaces With These Friendly Bollards To Improve Roadside Safety

As cities around the world strive to improve urban living and create pedestrian-friendly environments, the need for well-designed public spaces becomes increasingly evident. However, one aspect that often goes overlooked is the entrance to these pedestrian areas. Frequently, we see neglected concrete barriers, makeshift signage, and uninspiring elements that fail to create a welcoming atmosphere. This lack of coherent and well-thought-out urban furniture results in cluttered spaces that do not effectively serve their purpose of inviting visitors.

Introducing Réal, the innovative safety bollard designed to revitalize pedestrian streets and enhance the pedestrianization of urban centers. Réal not only serves its functional purpose of delineating pedestrian areas but also adds a touch of style and character to the space. Its design evokes a friendly and inviting character, welcoming visitors with open arms.

Designer: Maxime Bourgault

One of the key features of Réal is its versatility. It offers a multitude of attachment options, allowing for the inclusion of various accessories. This flexibility simplifies and harmonizes pedestrian areas, ensuring a cohesive and aesthetically pleasing environment. By integrating additional elements such as planters, seating, or informative signage, Réal transforms the pedestrian streets into a cohesive and visually appealing space.

Moreover, Réal contributes to the overall sustainability of urban living. By clearly delimiting pedestrian areas and creating identifiable entrances, it encourages the pedestrianization of urban centers. This shift towards pedestrian-friendly spaces has numerous benefits, including improved safety, reduced pollution, and increased economic activity. Réal plays a vital role in supporting this transition, creating a more sustainable and livable cityscape.

In addition to its functional and sustainability benefits, Réal also possesses a strong product identity. Its design exudes a friendly and welcoming aura, due to its rounded edges and cute form, making visitors feel invited and at ease. The combination of safety and style creates an engaging and memorable experience for pedestrians, enhancing their overall enjoyment of the urban environment.

By addressing the need for well-designed and visually appealing urban furniture, Réal sets a new standard for pedestrian spaces. Its presence helps refurbish pedestrian sites and elevates the overall aesthetic of urban centers. No longer will concrete barriers and temporary signage dominate pedestrian areas. Instead, Réal provides a coherent and well-thought-out solution that showcases the city’s commitment to creating welcoming, sustainable and vibrant public spaces.

So, if you’re a city planner, urban designer, or simply someone passionate about creating livable and inviting public spaces, consider Réal as the ideal solution. Let Réal be the friendly face that greets visitors and transforms pedestrian streets into harmonious and captivating urban environments.

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This Electricity-Free Water Filter Stacks Up Traditional Clay Filter With Modern Technologies

In a world where access to clean drinking water is an essential necessity, Mexican company Ecofiltro has emerged as a beacon of innovation and sustainability. Dedicated to providing affordable and effective water filtration solutions for households across the country, Ecofiltro has introduced a remarkable product that merges age-old tradition with cutting-edge technology. The Ecofiltro Ecological Stackable Water Filter, a conical wonder that filters water through the force of gravity, is not just a filtration device; it’s a testament to the power of nature-inspired design and ingenuity.

Designer: NOS Design

 

At the core of Ecofiltro’s revolutionary water filtration technology lies a clever concoction of activated charcoal, clay, and colloidal silver. This unique blend forms the bedrock of a purification process that goes beyond mere water cleansing, tapping into the wisdom of ancient practices and scientific understanding. Clay pots were very commonly used in the Indian tradition to store water. Drinking water through a clay pot has been a very old Indian tradition. It has various natural cooling properties, It is alkaline in nature, helps boost metabolism, is gentle on the throat and it also helps retain PH levels in our body, keeping digestive problems, acidity, or gastric problems away and we feel more hydrated and fresh. Clay Bottles are environment friendly and it’s a great initiative to keep them in trend with the contemporary world. Here’s a closer look at the components that make this filtration marvel a reality:

Activated Charcoal:

The Ecological Stackable Water Filter employs activated charcoal’s potent adsorption process, which chemically binds impurities to its surface. This process distinguishes adsorption from absorption, resulting in the thorough removal of contaminants such as bacteria, chlorine, lead particles, and unpleasant odors.

Clay:

Harkening back to the age-old Indian tradition of using clay pots for drinking water, this filter pays homage to the manifold benefits of clay. The filtration process through clay imparts a natural cooling effect and alkaline properties that can aid metabolism, maintain optimal pH levels in the body, and keep digestive and gastric issues at bay. Moreover, water stored in clay containers often carries a distinct sweetness attributed to the minerals present in the material.

Colloidal Silver:

The addition of colloidal silver infuses the filter with antibacterial properties, preventing the growth of bacteria and algae within the filtration system. This ensures that the filtered water remains safe and free from potential contaminants.

Ecofiltro seamlessly blends the richness of cultural heritage with contemporary aesthetics through the design of the Ecological Stackable Water Filter. The culmination of meticulous craftsmanship and thoughtful engineering results in a product that embodies both form and function:

The filter’s conical shape is expertly molded from natural materials, bypassing the need for chemicals or electricity. The filter is offered in three elegant finishes—Light Amber, Pure White, and Vibrant Blue—that cater to diverse preferences while seamlessly integrating into modern kitchens.

Ecofiltro’s design philosophy is evident in the filter’s transparent construction, which showcases the mesmerizing filtration process. A textured surface creates captivating light patterns, guiding the water’s journey from a circular inlet at the top to an elliptical base that optimizes countertop space.

Practicality is paramount, and Ecofiltro has carefully considered stackability, ease of cleaning, and manufacturability in its design. The inclusion of a steel key for dispensing water further enhances user convenience, making the filter a seamless and effortless addition to daily life.

Ecofiltro’s commitment to sustainability and accessibility underscores the core philosophy of the Ecological Stackable Water Filter. With a focus on ecological responsibility, minimal electricity dependence, and stackable design, the company demonstrates its dedication to minimizing environmental impact while making clean water accessible to a wider spectrum of individuals.

The Ecological Stackable Water Filter from Ecofiltro represents a harmonious convergence of time-honored traditions and modern ingenuity. Through the symbiotic blend of activated charcoal, clay, and colloidal silver, this innovative filtration solution not only purifies water but also encapsulates the essence of ancient practices that prioritize health and well-being. With its captivating design, steadfast commitment to sustainability, and affordability, Ecofiltro has achieved the remarkable feat of turning a functional necessity into a symbol of innovation, care, and optimism for a more sustainable future.

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Top 10 eco-friendly dwellings that make for the ultimate sustainable homes

Living in a sustainable, conscious, and smart manner has become not only a necessity but our moral obligation and duty toward the planet. Our homes should seamlessly integrate with, and nourish the planet, not drain her resources and reduce her lifespan. Being at one with Planet Earth, while taking rigorous care of her has never been more of a priority. In an effort to encourage an eco-friendly way of life, sustainable architecture has been gaining immense popularity among architects. They have been designing sustainable homes. These homes aim to harmoniously merge with nature, co-existing with it in peace, and allowing us to live in equilibrium with the environment. They reduce their carbon footprint and encourage a sustainable and clean lifestyle. And, not to mention they’re aesthetically and visually pleasing as well! From a solar-powered off-grid tree house to a floating house made from flax fiber – these amazing designs will convert you into a sustainable architecture advocate!

1. The Baltic

Designed by Fort Treehouse Co., this beautiful treehouse is called the Baltic and has been designed to provide residents with a comfortable and luxurious stay. It includes a kitchen, bathroom, living room, cozy sleeping loft, and luxurious extras like an outdoor wood-fired hot tub.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Baltic was designed to offer a unique and one-of-a-kind treehouse experience in the heart of the Canadian woodlands, providing you with an opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.

What we like

  • Solar-powered property that supports an off-grid lifestyle
  • Built using specialized hardware that supports the treehouse, and ensures the longevity of the trees

What we dislike

  • Equipped with an open-concept loft bathroom which may be uncomfortable to use for some people, and could invite in bugs and insects

2. The Vagabundo Flex

The Vagabundo Flex is a special tiny home constructed using timber framing, wood fiber insulation, double-glazed wood aluminum windows that have been laminated with safety glass, and three-layer fir wood for the interior paneling. It extends over two levels, all thanks to an automated lifting root system, that elevates the comfort and functionality of this unique home.

Why is it noteworthy?

An automated lifting root system lifts the home to an impressive height of 20.3 feet, building a spacious and open interior that occupies 300 square feet. The smart solution was designed to ensure that heavy and bulky elements do not affect or alter the aesthetics of the home.

What we like

  • The bulky elements have been smartly concealed in the corners and tucked away in cupboards
  • The tiny home has been amped with all the essential amenities, as well as massive panoramic windows and timber furnishings

What we dislike

  • Heavily priced

3. The Pathway

Called the Pathway, this tiny home by MTL is a brilliant attempt on their part to maximize limited space. MTL is known for its smart and well-designed tiny homes, that impress everyone in the micro-living world.

Why is it noteworthy?

The minimal and chic towable home has a length of 8 feet and a couple of star features such as a rooftop deck, and a smart space-saving interior accentuated with a pulley-operated ladder.

What we like

  • The rooftop deck area features a  collapsible security railings for safety of the residents
  • Amped with a generous amount of storage space throughout the house

What we dislike

  • It’s not the smallest tiny home on the market, you can find more compact options

4. The Haus Hoinka

Located in the district of Pfaffenhofen, Germany is a small house called Haus Hoinka. Designed by Atelier Kaiser Shen, the Haus Hoinka is nestled in a little village that is dominated by half-timbered 16th and 17th-century houses, a rustic church setting, and vineyards.

Why is it noteworthy?

The intention behind the Haus Hoinka was to encourage and promote sustainable building construction by utilizing simple clean materials that can be easily recycled separately. The entire project uses renewable materials that can be swiftly released into the natural cycle later. Bales of straw and a mixture of clay plaster were employed as the materials of choice for this initiative.

What we like

  • The late 19th-century construction practice used by the architects focuses heavily on straw as it is renewable and recyclable

What we dislike

  • The aesthetics and style of the home are pretty traditional, which won’t be appreciated by everyone

5. The Tree House by the Lake

Nestled along the shores of Da Bang Lake in the Chau Duc District in Vietnam is a beautiful home called the Tree House by the Lake. The house was constructed using recycled metal sheeting and repurposed wood and glass and was built for an elderly couple.

Why is it noteworthy?

The home is designed to bring the couple and their grandchildren closer to nature, helping them build a deeper connection to it, and immerse themselves in greener surroundings. The Tree House by the Lake is surrounded by the forest and was in fact constructed using local scrap materials to reduce the impact on it.

What we like

  • Draws inspiration from a treehouse
  • Constructed using recycled and local scrap materials

What we dislike

  • The home merges completely with its natural surroundings and may be difficult to spot by birds, and they could crash into it

6. The Blue Nomad

Designed by students, the Blue Nomad is a floating house for the future and is intended to be a permanent home for those people who will travel and live on the water – the “modern nomads”.

Why is it noteworthy?

The inspiration for the Blue Nomad was taken from the Outrigger – a boat built from organic materials that was utilized by Polynesian nomadic communities centuries ago. The conceptual floating home will accommodate two people, and allow two guests as well.

What we like

  • Built primarily from flax fiber
  • Multiple floating homes can be connected together so neighborhoods or communities can also be built despite the nomadic culture

What we dislike

  • Not much information on the interiors and features of the home

7. Macha House

Located in a rural region of Kolkata, India is the Macha House. Built mostly from bamboo, the two-bedroom house features a terrace and has a simple and minimalist appeal.

Why is it noteworthy?

The house is primarily built from bamboo, but it does use metal to build a strong and solid foundation. This also helps to lessen the water damage that could be caused by the region’s flooding.

What we like

  • Constructed nine feet off the ground to protect from wildlife and the aforementioned flooding
  • Located in the middle of a guava orchard so you probably have one of the best views in the area

What we dislike

  • The home has a pretty open layout, so it could be easily susceptible to rain and other weather conditions

8. Casa ZGZ

Designed by iHouse, the Casa ZGZ was built by merging two modules. It was constructed off-site and built within 70 days for an Uruguayan living in London, and installed on the family’s property within five days!

Why is it noteworthy?

The residence has a single floor and is clad in black, to allow the home to hide in plain sight, in the midst of the elements of nature that surround it. The black exterior provides a warm effect to the wooden interior of the home, which is paneled with wood certified by the Forest Stewardship Council.

What we like

  • Minimizing the home’s impact on the region’s environment and land, Casa ZGZ was constructed offsite in two modules
  • Coexists in harmony with a space alien to its language

What we dislike

  • It could have been equipped with another level/story to provide more space

9. Napoles House

PJCArchitecture designed a micro-home in Napoles, Ecuador with two interesting brick forms that are connected via a glass bridge that relies deeply on passive heating and cooling. The weekend home occupies 700 square feet and was built using locally sourced brick, steel, concrete, and glass.

Why is it noteworthy?

“The design is based not only on the client’s needs but on her desire to embrace the local environment, culture, and vernacular,” said lead architect Nandar Godoy-Dinneen. “It was also heavily shaped by the availability of construction materials and by working within the local traditions.” The Napoles House actually looks like a single piece of brick!

What we like

  • Constructed using locally sourced materials, and by local craftsmen and crew

What we dislike

  • No active systems, which may be inconvenient for some people

10. Samara and James’ Tiny Home

Designed by a lovely couple Samara and James, with the help of Samara’s father Frank Macchia, a holistic designer, this beautiful tiny home is 16 feet long, and was implemented with all the design moves you wouldn’t execute in a small space.

Why is it noteworthy?

The entire home features an interesting dark theme and doesn’t have a lot of windows. But despite these quirky traits, the house has a spacious and balanced vibe to be, allowing it to maintain a serene connection with the site it is located on.

What we like

  • Inspired by Japanese design, especially by shou sugi ban
  • The three modules of the house can be moved and reconfigured if the home needs to be ever expanded

What we dislike

  • The home  only features an outdoor shower, which some people may not be comfortable to use

The post Top 10 eco-friendly dwellings that make for the ultimate sustainable homes first appeared on Yanko Design.

Solar-Powered Off-Grid Treehouse Perfectly Combines Nature, Sustainability + Luxury

As a child, we’ve all dreamed of having a large enchanting treehouse in our backyards. A place we can play all day in, and spend our summer coasting above the ground, in the canopy of a beautiful tree. As an adult, we can actually make that dream come true! A stunning treehouse was recently constructed in the north of Toronto, Canada near Minden by locally based treehouse company Fort Treehouse Co. The 370 square feet treehouse is built amidst three trees – one red maple, and two sugar maples, and spans over two stories.

Dubbed the Baltic, this mesmerizing treehouse is fully equipped to provide a comfortable and cozy living experience. It houses a kitchen, bathroom, living room, a comfortable sleeping loft, and a luxurious extra like an outdoor wood-fired hot tub to pamper its residents. It aims to provide a unique and one-of-a-kind treehouse experience in the heart of the Canadian woodlands, allowing you to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.

Pros:

  • Solar-powered and completely off-grid
  • Provides stunning views of the Haliburton Highlands’ evergreen and mixed hardwood forests
  • Built using specialized hardware that supports the treehouse, and ensures the longevity of the trees

Cons:

  • Has an open-concept loft bathroom which may be uncomfortable to use for some people, and could invite in bugs and insects
  • Only available for short-term stays, so you can’t book it for longer durations

Designer: Fort Treehouse Co.

One look at the Baltic, and you instantly feel invited in. It has a rather comforting and modern exterior punctuated with massive windows that lend the space an air of openness. The windows allow natural light to stream in through the day, reducing dependency on artificial lighting. While constructing the home, precautions, and measures were taken to cause minimum impact to the surrounding trees. Large machinery was prohibited from being used around the trees, which can cause damage to the water-absorbing surface roots. Instead, the materials and large supports were swung using hand-pulled ropes via a system of rigging. In fact, the treehouse is raised on a platform 13 feet above the ground, supported by specialized hardware, that is connected to the trees. An insulated conduit was installed which holds the plumbing and electrical wires that service the treehouse.

“We’ve got some very specialized hardware that supports the treehouse and ensures the longevity of the trees. On the exterior of the tree, about the first two inches is where all those living cells that are taking food up and storing sugars. In the middle [of the tree] is wood—it’s lumber, it’s wood, it’s the support for the tree. So by putting the hardware all the way through the tree, you’re not causing any more impact to the tree and its ability to carry what it needs up and down the tree, but you are putting the load nice and safe on either side of the tree, instead of just on one [side],” said Fort Treehouse Co.’s founder Cam Green.

As you enter the treehouse, you are welcomed by a compact foyer where you can sit and remove your shoes. As you wander further inside, you enter the living room which features a warm earthen floor made using a mix of local clay, sand, and straw. The floor absorbs a lot of the heat from the sun, and slowly releases it throughout the day, to keep the home warm and comfortable. A propane fireplace provides the maximum amount of heat to the living space.

The kitchen is small, but well-equipped with a stove, oven, sink, and a mini-refrigerator. The bedroom is quite cushy and cozy with windows on all sides, while the bathroom features a custom rain shower, toilet, and vintage-style sink. All in all, the Baltic is a thoughtfully-designed, off-grid, and sustainable treehouse that makes for an excellent modern getaway in the heart of nature. It perfectly combines natural beauty, comfort, luxury, and sustainability.

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Allbirds unveils “world’s first net-zero carbon shoe” with regenerative wool upper and bioplastic sole

A couple of months ago Allbirds announced the M0.0NSHOT – the world’s first net carbon shoe. Although there are quite a few net carbon shoes out there made from traditional and natural materials, this shoe is the first of its kind in the commercial shoe industry. The minimal, all-grey sneaker is set to have a carbon footprint of net 0.0 kg CO2e and is supposed to be one of the most sustainable mass-produced shoes we’ve seen till now! The shoe was announced in March, but it was finally unveiled at the Global Fashion Summit in Copenhagen on June 27th, we’re quite excited to dive deeper into it!

Designer: Allbirds

The Moonshot is an interesting-looking woolly sock-style trainer that features a bioplastic sole, and an upper made using regenerative wool. The wool was produced on a regenerative farm in New Zealand, which employs sustainable land management practices to ensure it captures more carbon than it produces. “Regenerative wool was a critical pillar of helping us reimagine how products are designed and made through the lens of carbon reduction,” said co-founder Tim Brown. “To me, the currently untapped opportunity for naturally derived, net-zero products is the future of fashion.”

Quite interestingly, the company has open-sourced the design and manufacturing process behind Moonshot with their ‘Recipe B0.0K’, which provides detailed information on the materials, manufacturing, transportation, end-of-life, and carbon footprint calculation behind the shoes. It is an excellent initiative to encourage and motivate the production of sustainable footwear, by sharing their secrets with other manufacturers, and quite literally simplifying the process for them. “It is also about ushering in a new age of ‘hyper-collaboration’ across brands and industries to share best practices, build scale for all parts of the supply chain, to reward growers and lower costs,” Brown continued.

The high-top design of the shoe and its cozy bootie-sneaker style are respectful of AllBirds’ signature style, to maintain and strengthen the connection with the company’s fan base. The carbon-negative regenerative wool upper is complemented by a carbon-negative bio-based midsole foam made using sugarcane and created via supercritical foaming. The logo was made using methane-capture bioplastic through a partnership with Mango Materials. And the packaging for the shoes was produced from sugarcane-based polyethylene, a carbon-negative material that cuts down on the weight and space needed for transportation. All in all, the impressively sustainable sock trainers seem to be paving a new path in the world of footwear!

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This modular beam-inspired furniture harmoniously merges form and function, like LEGO bricks

Finding the correct blend of aesthetics and practicality in design may be a difficult undertaking. The Beam Collection, on the other hand, effortlessly achieves this precise balance. This exceptional collection has piqued the interest of design enthusiasts. The Beam Collection gives a refreshing feeling of harmony to any living area with its seamless combination of building forms and practical functioning. The modular bench and side tables can be used to start a conversation and add value to any space.

Designer: Adam Weir

Modular furniture is becoming increasingly popular due to its flexibility and agility. It enables customers to effortlessly rearrange their environment without having to purchase new furniture. This makes it excellent for people who move frequently or who want to change the appearance of their house or office rapidly in a sustainable fashion. Modular furniture also provides a variety of possibilities, allowing customers to personalize their space to their specific needs and preferences. This concept is compatible with a sustainable approach because it allows for regular modification without the need to purchase new furnishings. The Beam Collection is a perfect example of a flexible and agile design. It is designed to be versatile and adaptable to different spaces, allowing for creative freedom in the way it is used. This collection is perfect for those who want to make their space unique and eye-catching while still being able to move around easily.

This collection is a playful and reductive expression of modern design. The series combines minimalist shapes and forms with contemporary materials to create a unique aesthetic. Each piece in the collection is intended to highlight the beauty of its material while maintaining a sense of playfulness. The use of various materials such as wood and metal produces an interesting contrast that enhances the overall appearance of each item. With its unique representation of minimalism, this collection is likely to inspire any modern home or workplace setting.

The Beam collection is a trio of modular pieces of furniture that aesthetically mimic reinforced concrete beams. It consists of a stool, a bench, and a side table. The stool is a small mitered pine board rectangular ledge with four identical-sized holes on one side and thin aluminum extrusions on the other. The bench is a longer, rectangular pine board ledge with four identical-diameter holes on one side and thin aluminum extrusions on the other. Last but not least, the side table is a little square pine board table with openings on both sides. These extrusions fit into the holes of the other parts, creating a modular structure and giving it a LEGO-like quality. If not inserted, these aluminum extrusions can be utilized in a number of different ways, such as an extended side rest to store trays, books, etc. Considering having holes on all sides would help elevate the design as it would allow the development of corner furniture.

The materials chosen for the Beam Collection show dedication to eco-friendly design. Furniture made from natural, ethically obtained materials, such as pine wood, powder-coated aluminum, and, stainless steel U + L brackets on the inside used for building and keeping it intact. These are all environmentally responsible and aesthetically pleasing. Utilizing eco-friendly materials improves the collection’s authenticity and warmth while also lowering its environmental impact. The Beam Collection creates a stronger connection to the environment and advances sustainability in design by incorporating natural features.

This playful design has a childlike character due to its comical form. It feels like a furniture piece out of Bob the Builder. It can be used to furnish children’s rooms. This is a great fit for smaller homes that demand flexible living lifestyles. The modern and sustainable aesthetic complements varied styles of interior design and allow one to consciously live in a world of deteriorating natural resources.

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Top 10 sustainable furniture designs to add to your home

2020 was a life-altering and drastic year, and 2023 is the year we get to redeem all our careless mistakes of the past and start living more consciously and sustainably. We cannot ignore the needs of our planet anymore, we need to take the environment into consideration, and what better way to start doing that than from our own homes? Sustainable furniture is taking the design industry by storm, they’re a step towards making our homes and our daily lives more eco-friendly and sustainable. They’re an attempt to cast aside toxic materials, and instead, add furniture designs to our home that won’t rot away on Earth for years once we’re done with them. We’ve curated a collection of furniture products created from cork, bamboo, and even a sea plant! The options are endless, and the end result is the same – a greener, healthier, and happier Mother Earth!

1. 3D-printed Chairs

These unique 3D-printed chairs were designed by Johannes Steinbauer Office For Design and were designed using additive manufacturing and are built without the use of fabrics, springs, and foam! Despite the lack of springs and foam, the chairs still manage to be super functional and cozy to sit in. The chair makes use of rigid parts, instead of the typical racks from chairs.

Why is it noteworthy?

The design is simple enough with four legs, a round seat, and a single bar at the back. But if you want to add other components like more racks or textiles, these can be added through 3D printing. The different parts are easy to assemble and disassemble and once it reaches the end of life, you can dispose of the different parts separately and recycle them accordingly.

What we like

  • Super easy to assemble and disassemble
  • Sustainable design

What we dislike

  • No instruction on having a space-saving version of this design

2. Tellus Bench

Street furniture brand Vestre and designer Emma Olbers have designed a unique and innovative piece of furniture called the Tellus Bench using fossil-free steel, produced without creating carbon emissions.

Why is it noteworthy?

Swedish steelmaker SSAB forged the steel used to build the Tellus Bench in its converted blast furnace, which utilizes green hydrogen instead of coal for heat, and hence it emits no carbon dioxide.

What we like

  • The bench is equipped with wide armrests, that provide comfort to the user, while also offering sufficient space to place a coffee or tea cup

What we dislike

  • Aesthetics are a bit dull and unassuming

3. The Drop Side Table

The Drop Side Table is a clean, minimal, and sturdy furniture piece that was built by twisting a standard glass tube until the tube is completely interlocked in itself.

Why is it noteworthy?

This twisting and interlocking resulted in the creation of two parts that are divided by a tightly knitted separation. Twisting the tube created a simple and efficient product that did not require any additional material.

What we like

  • Recycled PTA and recycled wood fibers were utilized for the 3D-printing process
  • The twisting storage sections of the side table can be used to store a variety of items from books and magazines to tealights or smaller flowers

What we dislike

  • The curved under-table is not a storage-intensive design as it leads to a wastage of space.

4. The Sphere Office Chair

Designed by Japanese furniture brand Okamura, the Sphere office chair is a sleek and good-looking office chair made using recycled fishing nets that have been salvaged from the ocean.

Why is it noteworthy?

The upholstery of the chair has been made from Okamura’s Re:net material, which is created from recycled fishing nets taken from the Japanese ocean. According to Okamura, the chair has a high level of recyclability.

What we like

  • The chair’s seat depth, reclining tension, and armrests can be easily and efficiently adjusted to maximize comfort

What we dislike

  • Aesthetically looks similar to other office chairs in the market

5. The KNOT Stool

The KNOT Stool is a uniquely designed stool that is flat all around, equipped with neither a curved surface nor corner. You can observe the various layers of wood that makeup all its parts, providing the stool with a rather brutalist aesthetic that is toned down because of the painted surfaces.

Why is it noteworthy?

The three wooden pieces can be painted in the same or different colors. The decorative webbing strap that wraps around the top of the stool’s legs can also come in complementing or contrasting colors, not to mention being made of different materials.

What we like

  • Adds a whimsical + fun element to your interiors
  • Clean and minimal design

What we dislike

  • Seems to be designed more for viewing rather than sitting

6. The Bündner Side Table

Designed by the Portuguese architecture and design studio Joana Vilaça Studio, the Bündner Side table is a solid wood table that is artfully inspired by the Swiss Alps lifestyle. It’s a rather interesting muse for a meager table, and not a very common one either.

Why is it noteworthy?

Joana drew inspiration from her own experience of living in Switzerland, where her studio is located. “Having lived for five years in the beautiful Graubünden canton of Switzerland, the collection is inspired by the art of living in the Swiss Alps,” she said.

What we like

  • The self-assembly design is ideal for residential or public interiors, where it can be utilized as a bedside, coffee, or side table

What we dislike

  • Would be great if there was a folding/space-saving version of it as well

7. Oceanides

Designed by Alexia Mintsouli for UK studio Alexa Mint, Oceanides is a collection of tables made from sea plants and marble. The innovative collection includes a square coffee table and two round side tables. One of the side tables features four legs, while the other features a solid base.

Why is it noteworthy?

Peloponnesian Tortora marble was used to craft the base and legs of the table, while the brown-colored tabletops were built using a sea plant that imparts the table with a natural pattern variation.

What we like

  • The local Greek craftsmen were involved in the process, hence giving the local economy a boost as well
  • Designed to promote sustainability + earth preservation

What we dislike

  • No option for customization

8. The Centenniale Coffee Table

Designed by architect and designer Joanna Laajisto for the Finnish brand Nikari, the Centenniale coffee table is a sturdy and minimal coffee table built using 100-year-old wood.

Why is it noteworthy?

The coffee table was designed by embracing the cracks and imperfections of the old timber. The entire coffee table was constructed from a single piece of wood, and it features a sharp-edged and elongated tabletop that is supported by blocky and chonky legs with rounded edges.

What we like

  • The different elements of the table beautifully showcase the unique and versatile variations and textures in the timber

What we dislike

  • Aesthetics are a tad bit simple and unassuming

9. Stackabl

More than just a collection of designer furniture in the form of chairs, lounges, and benches, Stackabl is actually a new system that mixes machine precision with human creativity. In a nutshell, a specialized configurator software analyzes choices made by a user or a designer, like colors or dimensions, and selects high-quality felt offcuts that are then cut by robots for use in making furniture.

Why is it noteworthy?

The demand for clothing and furniture upholstery has probably gone up in the past few years, as more people become more attuned to well-designed products. That means more materials are used for production, which unfortunately also means more scraps are left on the cutting room floor, quite literally. While some of these materials are biodegradable or at least recyclable, one design firm is putting them to good use to create furniture that not only looks comfortable but artistically striking as well.

What we like

  • Reduces carbon footprint while also enriching and empowering local economies

What we dislike

  • May not suit modern contemporary homes

10. in.water

This stunning desk has a minimalist appeal to it. It is flat-packed and can be easily assembled, and includes more than two pairs of aluminum legs and. a plexiglass tabletop.

Why is it noteworthy?

The table has a translucent gradient that goes from blue to frost white, creating an interesting visual even when it’s devoid of anything on top. The choice of color is, of course, intentional, and it is meant to convey the image of a clear body of water partially reflecting the blue sky.

What we like

  • It can be made from 100% recycled plexiglass and aluminum, and its flat-pack design produces less carbon footprint during transportation

What we dislike

  • Showcases no way to add drawers, cable management setup, or any accessories to the glass top

The post Top 10 sustainable furniture designs to add to your home first appeared on Yanko Design.

Top 10 sustainable furniture designs that are the eco-friendly additions your home needs

2020 was a life-altering and drastic year, and 2023 is the year we get to redeem all our careless mistakes of the past and start living more consciously and sustainably. We cannot ignore the needs of our planet anymore, we need to take the environment into consideration, and what better way to start doing that than from our own homes? Sustainable furniture is taking the design industry by storm, they’re a step towards making our homes and our daily lives more eco-friendly and sustainable. They’re an attempt to cast aside toxic materials, and instead, add furniture designs to our home that won’t rot away on Earth for years once we’re done with them. We’ve curated a collection of furniture products created from cork, bamboo, and even a sea plant! The options are endless, and the end result is the same – a greener, healthier, and happier Mother Earth!

1. 3D-printed Chairs

Designed by Johannes Steinbauer Office For Design, these 3D-printed chairs are produced using additive manufacturing and are created without using fabrics, springs, and foam! And they still manage to be super functional and comfortable. These chairs utilize rigid parts, instead of the typical racks from chairs.

Why is it noteworthy?

The design is simple enough with four legs, a round seat, and a single bar at the back. But if you want to add other components like more racks or textiles, these can be added through 3D printing. The different parts are easy to assemble and disassemble and once it reaches the end of life, you can dispose of the different parts separately and recycle them accordingly.

What we like

  • Super easy to assemble and disassemble
  • Sustainable design

What we dislike

  • No instruction on having a space-saving version of this design

2. The Bündner Side Table

Designed by the Portuguese architecture and design studio Joana Vilaça Studio, the Bündner Side table is a solid wood table that is artfully inspired by the Swiss Alps lifestyle. It’s a rather interesting muse for a meager table, and not a very common one either.

Why is it noteworthy?

Joana drew inspiration from her own experience of living in Switzerland, where her studio is located. “Having lived for five years in the beautiful Graubünden canton of Switzerland, the collection is inspired by the art of living in the Swiss Alps,” she said.

What we like

  • The self-assembly design is ideal for residential or public interiors, where it can be utilized as a bedside, coffee, or side table

What we dislike

  • Would be great if there was a folding/space-saving version of it as well

3. The Chatpod 700

There are quite a few versatile options on the market when it comes to office booths, but have you come across the most sustainable one yet? Yup, called the Chatpod 700, this sleek and minimal office booth claims to be “the most sustainable office booth on the market”.

Why is it noteworthy?

Made entirely from recycled materials such as post-consumer cardboard, sawdust, rubber, and plastic bottle, the Chatpod 700 is quite proud of its sustainable composition, and with reason. Designed by Jeffrey Ibañez for Impact Acoustic, the office booth was ideally created for team meetings.

What we like

  • Built using recycled materials
  • Great space to hold casual informal meetings

What we dislike

  • Large space-consuming design

4. Oceanides

Designed by Alexia Mintsouli for UK studio Alexa Mint, Oceanides is a collection of tables made from sea plants and marble. The innovative collection includes a square coffee table and two round side tables. One of the side tables features four legs, while the other features a solid base.

Why is it noteworthy?

Peloponnesian Tortora marble was used to craft the base and legs of the table, while the brown-colored tabletops were built using a sea plant that imparts the table with a natural pattern variation.

What we like

  • The local Greek craftsmen were involved in the process, hence giving the local economy a boost as well
  • Designed to promote sustainability + earth preservation

What we dislike

  • No option for customization

5. The Drum Stool

The Drum stool is minimal, elegant, stackable, and not to mention sustainable! At first glance, the Drum stool looks like a cute little wine cork to me. But when you dig deeper, you realize it has much more to offer than its adorable good looks.

Why is it noteworthy?

Teixeira picked materials such as cork and wood to build the stool, instantly rating it high on sustainability. Cork was used to create the seat, while wood was the material of choice for the legs.

What we like

  • The cork seat is comfortable and inviting and provides a grip while handling, so the stool is quite easy to move around and place in different positions

What we dislike

  • The wave pattern of the trimmed cork seat seems uncomfortable to sit on for long durations

6. Stackabl

More than just a collection of designer furniture in the form of chairs, lounges, and benches, Stackabl is actually a new system that mixes machine precision with human creativity. In a nutshell, a specialized configurator software analyzes choices made by a user or a designer, like colors or dimensions, and selects high-quality felt offcuts that are then cut by robots for use in making furniture.

Why is it noteworthy?

The demand for clothing and furniture upholstery has probably gone up in the past few years, as more people become more attuned to well-designed products. That means more materials are used for production, which unfortunately also means more scraps are left on the cutting room floor, quite literally. While some of these materials are biodegradable or at least recyclable, one design firm is putting them to good use to create furniture that not only looks comfortable but artistically striking as well.

What we like

  • Reduces carbon footprint while also enriching and empowering local economies

What we dislike

  • May not suit modern contemporary homes

7. The Flying Saucer Coffee Table

This table is made up of three large UFO shapes in tasty candy colors holding aloft an even larger glass disc that serves as the tabletop, and it is called the Flying Saucer Coffee Table.

Why is it noteworthy?

The combination, especially if viewed from the top, is reminiscent of those glass jars holding innumerable gobstoppers that make our mouths water at the mere sight of them. Beneath the UFOs is a steel base plate that creates a perpetual shadow for the flying candies, regardless of the light source.

What we like

  • Thermoformed plastic used in the product is sourced from recycled materials, particularly from food packaging that makes up about 75% of London’s domestic plastic waste

What we dislike

  • The edges of the UFOs could easily cause us to stub our toes

8. in.water

This desk is striking in its minimalist beauty. The piece of furniture is flat-packed and easily assembled, composed of nothing more than two pairs of aluminum legs and a plexiglass tabletop.

Why is it noteworthy?

The table has a translucent gradient that goes from blue to frost white, creating an interesting visual even when it’s devoid of anything on top. The choice of color is, of course, intentional, and it is meant to convey the image of a clear body of water partially reflecting the blue sky.

What we like

  • It can be made from 100% recycled plexiglass and aluminum, and its flat-pack design produces less carbon footprint during transportation

What we dislike

  • Showcases no way to add drawers, cable management setup, or any accessories to the glass top

9. Vis-à-vis and Rendez-vous

I’ve realized that filling up your bathroom with thoughtful designs, only makes your time in it much more comfortable and smooth. And this collection of bathroom seating by Italian bathroom brand Agape strives to be exactly that! Designed by Marco Carini for Agape, the collection includes two seating designs created from recycled cork.

Why is it noteworthy?

The first design is called Vis-à-vis, and it is a light and sturdy stool that also doubles up as a tiny side table. The second design is Rendez-vous, and it’s a bench that serves as an extensive seating option for bathroom users. Both designs function as comfortable spots to sit and relax in the bathroom.

What we like

  • Crafted from recycled cork
  • The curving form resembles someone smiling

What we dislike

  • Not suited for bathrooms with a smaller footprint

10. The 4PM Chaise Longue Chair

Comprised of flat and curved features, the 4PM Chaise Longue Chair is designed to create comfort out of hard material. Constructed in either Douglas fir or cherry wood, the only upholstered component of the 4PM Chaise Longue Chair is the leather headrest. Balanced on top of the backrest, Massproductions held the headrest in place with a steel weight.

Why is it noteworthy?

Massproductions is a slow furniture company, don’t let the name fool you. Since the furniture company only develops a few pieces every year, the ones that go into production guarantee a top-quality build and durable life span. Boasting an efficient, sustainable, and high-quality industrial production process, the company’s designers ensure the integrity of Massproductions’s vision. The company’s founder, Chris Martin, developed the 4PM Chaise Longue Chair to reinforce the company’s commitment to quality and produce an ergonomic, long-lasting chair for much-needed R&R.

What we like

  • Sustainable production and design process
  • Ergonomically designed

What we dislike

  • It doesn’t seem very comfortable to sit on for long hours

The post Top 10 sustainable furniture designs that are the eco-friendly additions your home needs first appeared on Yanko Design.

Top 10 sustainable homes designed to be the ultimate eco-friendly dwellings

Living in a sustainable, conscious, and smart manner has become not only a necessity but our moral obligation and duty toward the planet. Our homes should seamlessly integrate with, and nourish the planet, not drain her resources and reduce her lifespan. Being at one with Planet Earth, while taking rigorous care of her has never been more of a priority. In an effort to encourage an eco-friendly way of life, sustainable architecture has been gaining immense popularity among architects. They have been designing sustainable homes. These homes aim to harmoniously merge with nature, co-existing with it in peace, and allowing us to live in equilibrium with the environment. They reduce their carbon footprint and encourage a sustainable and clean lifestyle. And, not to mention they’re aesthetically and visually pleasing as well! From a tiny sustainable home that only measures 3×3 meters to a hostel in Shanghai built using recycled red bricks, natural clay, and reed bundles – these amazing designs will convert you into a sustainable architecture advocate!

1. The Coodo

A couple of years ago, German entrepreneur Mark Dare Schmiedel got pretty fed up with the chaos of Berlin and decided to move to the countryside, building his own quaint loft along the banks of the River Spree. The peace, calm, and zen that followed, got him wondering whether it would be possible to create a similar, but a mobile form of home, that could provide the same sanctuary to others. In his quest for such a retreat, he came across a mobile home concept designed by a group of Slovenian architects called ‘Coodo’. Schmiedel went on to procure the design rights of the concept, through his company LTG (Lofts to Go) and kickstarted the production of the units. The modular homes aim to bring you closer to nature, to a space away from the crowds, where you can truly enjoy the beauty of a moment.

Why is it noteworthy?

It features a curved, minimal steel frame with rounded edges and stunning floor-to-ceiling glass walls. The beautiful glass walls allow a generous stream of sunlight to enter the home. Whether on rooftops in the city, on beaches, on mountains, or alongside a river, the Coodo can be easily installed almost anywhere.

What we like

  • Integrated utilization of smart home technology.
  • Adherence to Passive House standards.

What we dislike

  • With its focus on natural settings, we wish there was a way to enclose the open patio space to close up when away from the home

2. Haus Hoinka

Located in the district of Pfaffenhofen, Germany is a small house called Haus Hoinka. Designed by Atelier Kaiser Shen, the Haus Hoinka is nestled in a little village that is dominated by half-timbered 16th and 17th-century houses, a rustic church setting, and vineyards.

Why is it noteworthy?

A major initiative of this project is to utilize and encourage sustainable building construction using simple and clean materials that can be easily and efficiently recycled separately. The project aims to use natural and renewable materials that can be released into the natural cycle later. Bales of straw and a mixture of clay plaster were employed as the materials of choice for this initiative.

What we like

  • The late 19th-century construction practice used by the architects focuses heavily on straw as it is renewable and recyclable

What we dislike

  • The aesthetics and style of the home are pretty traditional, which won’t be appreciated by everyone

3. Octothorpe House

Called the Octothorpe House, this impressive home in the Oregon high desert area near Bend was commissioned by a couple Mike and Katherine to Mork-Ulnes Architects. They wanted a home that would harmoniously merge with the desert landscape, and be environmentally friendly as well.

Why is it noteworthy?

To meet the client’s desire for a sustainable home, Mork-Ulnes Architects decided to use ‘cross-laminated timber’ in the construction of the home. What makes this timber sustainable is the fact that it has a strength-to-weight ratio that’s similar to concrete, but it is five times lighter as compared to it. CLT is pre-cut off-site, which also reduces construction waste immensely.

What we like

  • The architects utilized CLT to build the interiors and the exterior of the Octothorpe House, this prevented them from releasing almost 15 metric tons of greenhouse gases into the air

What we dislike

  • The central courtyard has an open design, which we hope has a retractable roof

4. 3×3 Retreat

Tucked away in the rainforest landscape near Southern Chile’s La Unión city is a tiny cabin called the 3×3 retreat. Designed by Estudio Diagonal Architects, the tiny home was designed to create a sense of cohesion between the ‘radical geometry’ of the structure, and the natural and organic essence of the site.

Why is it noteworthy?

The cabin aims to function as a comfortable, cozy, and functional dwelling in the raw rainforest, without disturbing or causing harm to the forest in the least. It is placed on a slope, that subtly overlooks the Radimadi River. This was a genius move since it allows the cabin to provide its residents with stunning views of nature.

What we like

  • The entire cabin was constructed by using common and economical building materials, such as standard pre-dimensional pine wood
  • Local construction techniques were utilized

What we dislike

  • The small footprint may not be suitable for everyone. Some people may find it too tiny

5. The Nokken Cabins

Called the Nokken Cabin, these prefab cabins can be purchased by anyone, but the designer duo has bigger plans for them. They want clusters of them to be placed in beautiful and remote locations to create “landscape hotels”, that can provide a luxurious glamping experience. You would be able to connect with nature and unwind, but in a comfortable and cozy space – without having to roughen it out basically.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Nokken Cabin was created for the purpose of expansion and was meant to be a pretty flexible structure. It can be used as a travel accommodation, a workspace, a retail element, a spa, a restaurant, or even as a simple home.

What we like

  • A beautiful picture window in front of the bed provides surreal views of the landscape.

What we dislike

  • While we love the minimal black structure, would be great if there was an optional open space/terrace space to better appreciate the surroundings

6. SOM LAND

Chinese design studio RooMoo transformed a pre-existing building into a hostel on the Chongming Island of Shanghai. Called the ‘SOM LAND’, the hostel is named after the traditional Chinese color of warm green, which makes a reference to the gaps found in between tree shadows and is a tribute to a slow-paced life.

Why is it noteworthy?

The construction of the hostel involved the utilization of local customs and handicrafts and caused minimum damage to the surrounding land. In fact, it incorporated the surrounding environment into the architectural scheme.

What we like

  • To incorporate sustainability into the structure, it was built using recycled old wood boards, wasted red bricks, tree branches, reed bundles found on the site, and bamboo and other locally sourced and discarded materials

What we dislike

  • Despite being renovated, the aesthetics of the hostel are old-school and can be considered out of style

7. LILELO

Nestled away in the center of Piedmont, Italy, surrounded by vineyards and woodlands is LILELO (Little Leisure Lodges). It includes a group of four adorable wooden cabins.

Why is it noteworthy?

The cabins are inspired by traditional haystacks, creating a triangular silhouette, which is supported by a trunk-like base. The cabins have been elevated off the ground, ensuring they don’t touch it, in an attempt to adopt a sustainable approach. This approach lays an emphasis on energy efficiency and eco-compatibility materiality.

What we like

  • The elevated cabins ensure that there is minimal impact on the ground, while also beautifully complementing the sloping topography
  • The eco-cabins artfully merge with their surrounding, creating the impression that is it at one with nature around it

What we dislike

  • There’s only one door in the entire cabin, which can lead to a lack of privacy

8. Casa ZGZ

Montevideo-based architecture firm iHouse constructs prefabricated homes using the latest dry construction methods currently trending on the international stage. With only 70 days to build a home for Conrado, an Uruguayan living in London, on his family’s property in Colonia, iHouse was well-equipped to take on the project. Formed by the merging of two modules, Casa ZGZ was constructed offsite and then installed on the family’s property in just five days.

Why is it noteworthy?

As Colonia is one of Uruguay’s oldest towns, the team behind Casa ZGZ hoped to maintain the spirit of the region’s historical architecture while contemporizing the cabin to accommodate modern needs. The single-level residence is clad in black in an effort to present hide the home in plain sight amongst the many elements of nature that surround it. The black exterior also warms up the home’s wooden interior, which is paneled with wood certified by the Forest Stewardship Council.

What we like

  • Minimizing the home’s impact on the region’s environment and land, Casa ZGZ was constructed offsite in two modules
  • Coexists in harmony with a space alien to its language

What we dislike

  • It could have been equipped with another level/story

9. Koto Design x Adobu’s Prefab Home

Based in the English seaside village of Westward Ho!, the architecture studio Koto Design captures the mellow vibe of a day spent at the seashore and translates it into a home space. Inspired by Scandinavian simplicity and Japanese minimalism, the result comes through breezy, open floor layouts and organic building materials.

Why is it noteworthy?

The architecture studio is known for its extensive catalog of sustainable, prefabricated tiny homes that can be transported to locations across the globe. In a recent collaboration with the USA-based, backyard home-building company Adobu, the two studios worked together to construct a tiny, prefabricated home that marries Scandinavian design with a Californian twist.

What we like

  • Provides a semi-outdoor lifestyle
  • Is carbon-neutral, and provides off-grid capabilities

What we dislike

  • With its sloped roof, it will be difficult to grow the space vertically

10. The Folding Dream House

Michael Jantzen, a multidisciplinary artist based in New Mexico, is one artist who seems endlessly inspired by geometry. Merging sustainability, architecture, and technology, Jantzen developed an adaptable modern home called The Folding Dream House that expands from an enclosed, cubic structure into a multi-layered, dream home.

Why is it noteworthy?

From its initial conception, the Folding Dream House was designed as a place to sleep. Amounting to the size of a conventional hotel room, the Folding Dream House consists of two prefabricated, portable modules. Each rectangular module is envisioned mounted atop an elevated, triangular foundation that connects the home’s expandable support beams to its frame. On each facade of the Folding Dream House, Jantzen envisioned triangular overhangs and partitions as foldable panels that expand from the home’s frame.

What we like

  • The panels can be folded open or closed in many different ways around the modules in order to accommodate various functional and/or aesthetic requirements

What we dislike

  • It’s still in the conceptual phase, which means that there could be fundamental changes as the material restrictions come in the production phase

The post Top 10 sustainable homes designed to be the ultimate eco-friendly dwellings first appeared on Yanko Design.