Modern Container Gardening

Here is a very hip idea. The 21st century answer to small space container gardening, helping those in need and recycling.

"We first saw this amazing idea for a vertical urban garden on treehugger.com about a month ago, and we've been thinking about it ever since. It's absolute genius!  The cool upcycled urban garden shown was made for a poor family of three living in outer São Paulo, Brazil, by design studioRosenbaum, which collaborates with the TV show Caldeirao do Huck in a segment called Lar doce lar (Home Sweet Home)."  jen betterley via Parent Map.

Studio Gorm - Flow Kitchen

"flow is a living kitchen where nature and technology are integrated in a symbiotic relationship, processes flow into one another in a natural cycle, efficiently utilizing energy, waste, water and other natural resources. it provides a space not only for preparing food but an environment that gives a better understanding of how natural processes work. a kitchen where food is grown, stored, cooked and composted to grow more food" From Studio Gorm, Eugene, Oregon.

Twig Terrariums

As a child, I made terrariums as gifts for people. With my limited childhood funds, it was a wonderful way to give a beautiful, lasting gift that was always appreciated. In recent years terrariums have had a resurgence, and the results have been wonderful. These Twig Terrariums, from the Brooklyn based company, have playful figurines of a swimmer, sculptor, wedding couple, painter at his easel as well as others. They are a delight to gaze at and easy to care for. Photos from Fab and Twig Terrariums.

Wooden Tables with Character

These are just a few of Pfeifer Studio's wood side table designs. They pride themselves on earth friendly products that are produced under Fair Trade conditions. Visit their website for information and more designs.

CraftedSystems, Doing Good with Design

CraftedSystems, of Portland Oregon, has combined the art of handcrafted felt weaving with skill development and economic empowerment for women. In partnership with the YMCA women's shelter, CraftedSystems produces innovative designs in felt. Interlocking, geometric wool pieces are transformed into vessels, wall art, floor coverings, lighting and table accessories in an environment that encourages collaborative and communal work. This ecological and people friendly company is the creation of designer Aurelie Tu. For more information on this inspiring use of design and craft or to purchase products, visit CraftedSystems.

Minigarden

Garden any time of year and anywhere with Minigarden. Use them outside in warm weather or inside year round. This gardening system not only provides food and herbs, a composting option and great thermal insulation to you home, it looks amazing.

Arroyo, Sustainable Wood Products

The building blocks of sustainable home accessories, that's how I like to think of Arroyo products. They have a natural simplicity that is refreshing and can add a richness to a home interior of any style. The Arroyo Collection, available at Amenity, is made by hand using FSC-Certified walnut.

Crack Bowl Pendant Lamp

I love the Crack Bowl Pendant Lamps designed by Kwon Jae Min. These lamps are a celebration of wood, splits and all. From 3 Ring.

The Bardessono Hotel

As summer heat and humidity escalate in my part of the world, summer travel absorbs a good deal of my thoughts. I plan to share more images and information during my future travels with you. Until then I will return to last summer and the amazing Bardessono Hotel in Yountville California. It is the perfect blend on modern meets earthy with truly innovative approaches to green design. Don't just take my word for it though. Go visit the web site and learn more about it's designers and the man behind it's creation! Most of all... STAY HERE... if you can. You won't forget this trip. Enjoy.

Chikuno Cube Bamboo Air Freshener

Chikuno Cube is an air freshener made from ultra fine powder of bamboo charcoal and clay minerals. They can be used for one year making them a great affordable find.

Buro North Green X-mass Tree

The Buro North X-mass tree was introduced last year and is a unique and green way to enjoy a modern Christmas season. It's 80% more environmentally friendly than the traditional pine tree, arrives at your door as a flat pack and can be used year after year. Most of all it looks great.

Brave Space Design

The wonderful Stagger Storage Unit is not only sleek and minimal with multiple uses, it's green. Designed by the Brooklyn based team Brave Space Design, this unit is made from bamboo and comes with multiple options and two finishes.

Furrowed Pendant Lamp

This is hand crafted bamboo pendant lamp by Propellor Designs of Vancouver. Their Furrow series of pendant lights was born out of experiments in the wood-shop with one of their favorite eco-friendly materials, laminated bamboo. It's created by a pattern of perforations that allow light to escape the shade, bringing it’s surfaces to life with a warm ambient glow.

Sustainable Design

Sustainable design offered at Branch. Some fun and cool stuff.