In previous posts we discussed the use of environmentally friendly products. Whether it relates to products that consume less energy or using recycled material, we need to change the way we look at our resources and reduce the strain on the environment. In theory, this is a great concept and as a furniture designer, I have always kept an eye out for companies that promote this same ideal. Truth is, being environmentally sound is great to talk about, but you see so little being done commercially to get recycled materials onto the mainstream market. Thanks to David Lasher, President of “Sage in Design,” that gap has been made a lot smaller.

Sage in Design is located in Vista, California and is committed to identifying, developing and providing the contract furniture and commercial retail industries with environmentally-sound alternatives to traditional site furnishings. Each of the products they represent is selected for its unique contribution to the environment, whether through design, fabrication or energy saving capabilities. Product attributes include fabrication from 100% recycled paper, recycled plastic or glass, reclaimed or FSC-certified woods, paints and finishes with low or no VOCs, natural fabrics, and environmentally-sound production or packaging processes.

Check out some of these quotes from the Sage in Design site:

“As I watch my family grow, I have become interested in giving back to the world that my kids will inherit one day. Having been in the contract furniture industry for more than 25 years, I know that there is an incredible void in the industry for ‘green’ alternatives,” explains Lasher.

“Businesses are finally starting to realize the benefits of green products, both in terms of a moral business philosophy that gives back to the environment, and also from a fiscal and PR perspective. We are determined to make it easy for our customers to go green.”

I strongly encourage you to visit the Sage in Design website (http://www.sageindesign.com/index.php) to see more about their philosophy, mission, and product offerings.If you know of other companies out there that are doing the same thing, drop us a comment or email to keith@re-function.com!

Furniture · innovation · recycled material

Interesting concept. Upon first thought, a city dweller like myself, would not agree with such a statement. There is nothing modern about rural but these designs and colors from furniturea work. More importantly, I like the idea that a company with rustic roots can identify and adapt a modern concept. It just goes to show you that being open minded can spark innovation.

Furniturea (fur-ni-chur-ah) is located in Portland, Maine and designs and manufactures contemporary hardwood furniture in a rural modern style. The pride they take in their work is evident as each piece is made one at a time and they take pride in their responsibility to the environment.

Rustic modern and bold colors define this furniture

From their site:

Furniturea’s adventurous designs and bold colors make a strong visual statement in Portland, Maine’s Old Port, a restored historic commercial district that hosts thousands of visitors every year. This vibrant, upscale, waterfront shopping district features a refreshing mix of commercial and recreational marine activities, diverse restaurants and bakeries, theaters, lodging, art galleries, historic architecture and unique locally-owned shops and boutiques.

creative design · Furniture