Some favourite stories

We're starting on February's resort issue but I thought I'd start the year looking back today as it ended on such a high note. Here's a recap of some of the best images published in 2010.

Book lovin'

If you're in the midst of renovations and wondering what it costs to make some green choices this book is the definitive guide.

An interview with Eco Textiles

What is your history with textiles?

Prior to starting the research project six years ago that became the company O Ecotextiles, neither Patty Grossman nor Leigh Anne Van Dusen had any experience in the textile industry.Patty Grossman (now CEO of O Ecotextiles) was in the microenterprise industry/movement for sixteen years as a practitioner helping entrepreneurs launch businesses – and helping them survive the inevitable cash crunches. 

What drove you to source globally?

There are many reasons we had to source globally.   The industry is extremely fragmented – one mill may do only velvet, for example; another may only work with linen, so  in order to put a collection together we would have to work with several different mills to draw on each mill’s expertise.  Additionally, we were looking for linen and hemp fabrics, and there is almost no linen in the United States, and definitely no hemp, and we were looking for those fibers. 

How luxurious are the fabrics?

We want to eliminate the guilt of our throwaway culture. Things we buy should be produced in ways that, at the very least, do no harm, and that either biodegrade or are infinitely recyclable – or they should exhibit the timeless aesthetics and natural qualities that make them heirlooms to be passed down to future generations. This is exactly how people can view fabrics by O Ecotextiles.

What is the cradle to cradle process?

Rather than a process, cradle to cradle (sometimes written as C2C) is a concept, which was originated by William McDonough and Michael Braumgart in their book, Cradle to Cradle.  In the book, they make the case that products must be designed in such a way that they can be, at the end of their useful life, entirely broken down and used as food for new product. They suggest industry should mimic nature, in that there would be no waste – all inputs would be used and at end of life would be returned to the system, from which new products of equal value could be made.  

What have you come across in regards to green washing?

Greenwashing in textiles is rife:  many products are touted as being “organic” certified fabrics, when in reality only the fiber is certified organic.  There is a huge difference between a GOTS certified fabric, and a fabric made with organic fibers.  Think of applesauce:  if it’s made with organic apples, but is cooked with preservatives, stabilizers, emulsifiers, and Red Dye #2 – you don’t end up with organic applesauce.  Same is true of fabrics.

What is your favourite colour?

Besides red - I love the natural color of the fibers: The fibers are eternal; how we choose to weave and color them varies by designer and is part of the colorful history of design.We want to make sure the fibers endure.

Book lovin'

A comprehensive guide to some of the best eco hotels and lodges around the world that also sustain local areas. You'll also find a list of credentials for the hotels listed. 

                                                       

Book lovin'

Three design driven content rich books to have if you're new to design, or curious about design and you're thinking of designing your own home. Or you have an affection for DIY, these books will educate you on various uses for every day recycled waste.  

          

 Packed with elegant solutions, you will learn from experienced designers how to turn junk into something beautiful and stylish. Now that winter's creeping in and you're spending more time indoors this might be the perfect time to DIY  and keep busy.            

My dream home

I've been looking at various types of loft spaces with a roof garden ( not much luck finding roof gardens) but I really don't want my neighbours that close. So when this press release landed in my inbox about a house in Colorado with pretty much all my specifications I knew this was my home. I want an open plan, live/work space with a great view.

And responsibly built like this house. So here goes the fun eco specs; 1/5 less energy is required than most homes and building this home used 1-2% waste as apposed to the average 17%. For more information follow the link below where Design Milk posted more information and pictures.

2002 Alpine in Colorado by Studio H:T

Sustainable Architecture > Eco Villa Design > Spain

Sustainable Architecture > Eco Villa Design > Spain

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Rain, rain, go away

Or at the very least collect in this beautifully designed rainwater vessel. According to designers Jenny Lemieux and Leo Carrales, it can hold 45 gallons of water.



Save your tap water and your bill, they'll be enough of a water supply for all your outdoor chores. Get a really great filtration system and this water could supply your indoor needs as well. Their company is called Hero Design Lab located in Toronto. Contact them directly for where to purchase.

Think magazine's first issue is now online

The original post for the magazine's first issue had some gliches, so I had to delete it however the magazine is still online. Go to www.thinkmag.net to view the first issue. Thank you to all who supported my efforts.

Jason Phillips

Jason Phillips passionately calls himself a green designer specialising in occasional furniture and accessories. A mixture of organic shapes and space age pieces make up his very likable collection.





Educated at the University of Michigan in industrial design and a Magna Cum Laude graduate, Jason won a number of highly coveted awards such as 2008 ARTs award, 2008 ADEX Gold Award Winner,2007 Future Furniture Award - Interior Design Magazine.

Above is a smattering of think magazine's furniture wish list. We especially love the sea urchin inspired glass coffee table and the Alice in Wonderland table with cirly whirly glass legs.

Collaborations I would like to see: Apartment Therapy, M3 Architects, Graft