Falper Vetro Integrated Cabinet Glass Top Basin. All photos courtesy Rogerseller.
‘Green’ design and products have historically found their classification in the product features themselves and not necessarily in the processes behind the production, or the facilities that produce them.
But that’s beginning to change, with more emphasis given to the green cogs that keep the green machine going.
Luckily, you don’t have to go green with envy at what others are doing; below, we’ve listed several firms working to contribute to the green movement.
Claybrook
Utilizing recycled marble that is a by-product of its mosaic tile workshop, Claybrook’s MarbleForm bathware is manufactured in a low impact, emission-free production process, using environmentally sustainable products, materials and manufacturing methods wherever possible.
With a unique wet polishing method, which incorporates water, the method is healthier, cleaner and safer, the result is a finer and smoother texture for a superior finish.
Apart from the fact that these pieces are made from recycled by-products, the actual products themselves can be recycled too.
At right: Claybrook Skye Bath
Catalano
“Think Green” is the motto of Catalano, who has been pursuing sustainability and respect for the environment at all stages of its production cycle for years. The firm prides itself in using pure raw materials without any risk of toxicity, while cutting-edge technology has resulted in a new generation of products with reduced thicknesses that require less material.
Catalano pays great attention to environmental efficiency and operating conditions of machinery as well; the installation of solar panels at the production plant generates 1,625,000 KWh – about a quarter of its total energy requirements.
Catalano’s plant is characterized by a low-noise impact and features a closed-loop wastewater recycling system, while the production processes facilitate the maximum reduction of volatile fumes and pollutants released into the atmosphere. But its green efforts don’t stop there.
When it comes to its products, Catalano is constantly innovating to ensure it stays at the forefront of technology and its impact on product design. For example, the company’s revolutionary glazing method, Cataglaze+, actively kills bacteria through Silver Titanium technology, eliminates the stagnation of water and reduces the amount of cleaning detergents and water required. The visibly superior aesthetic also guarantees anti-yellowing over time.
At left: Catalano Zero 55 Basin
Falper
Utilizing only natural materials, Falper recycles all of its manufacturing waste.
Each timber panel is certified ecological and all the wood finishes are entirely water-based.
Scratches and breaks are easily restored on the surfaces of bathtubs and washbasins, reducing the need to replace items, while they are also completely recyclable.
At right: Falper Quattro Zero Caldera bath
Fantini
At its core, Fantini is all about water. Since 2012, its “100 Fontane: Fantini for Africa” project has succeeded in bringing clean water to 25,000 people in Masango, Burundi, through the construction of 12 collection wells, 27km of aqueducts and 100 water outlets.
Fantini products also adhere to the most stringent standards to safeguard consumer health. Its products are certified Lead free (containing less than 0.25 percent) whilst they’re also utilizing more stainless steel across all of its collections. A compact and solid material, stainless steel offers the highest resistance to corrosion and is particularly hard-wearing and durable, facilitating maximum hygiene. In addition, it’s also an eco-friendly and recyclable material.
At left: Fantini Mare Basin Mixer
Eco-friendly furniture and sustainable decor are more than a cute trend — they are a priority for STEM.
With the increasing amount of plastic in our oceans, shrinking forests, and our overall impact on Mother Earth, sustainable designs are becoming more and more popular. Companies like STEM are realizing the importance of sourcing materials responsibly and spreading the message.
Going beyond the typical one or two eco-friendly pieces that most companies offer, STEM’s collection takes sustainability carefully into consideration. Founded by two brothers, Ryan and Travis, STEM is inspiring buyers and designers alike with its entirely eco-friendly collection. The company prides itself on creating a “Healthy Planet, Healthy Home.”
STEM ensures satisfaction by building each piece one at a time in L.A. from eco-materials like natural latex and wool, bamboo, organic cotton, and more. Cutting out harsh chemicals like fire retardants and certain glues are also a part of the process. Sofas and sectionals — being the biggest portion of STEM’s business — are made with FSC certified wood frames, natural jute, and organic cotton. Pieces like the Rio Sofa and Blumen Sectional can be made to the inch to get it just right for each customer and space.
Bamboo Float is a unique style that STEM incorporates into sofas, tables, and more. Bamboo is an ideal material because it grows as quickly as a weed. STEM uses sheets of bamboo for the base and then attaches an upholstered piece for the seating component.
For the Voya Side Table, the piece is handcrafted with FSC certified walnut or hard maple and is covered in zero VOC matte finish. The design can also be made into a coffee table as well.
Also using FSC certified walnut or hard maple for the base is the Sino Coffee Table. The top is white carrera marble and has the option for a draw for storage. STEM makes each piece as it’s needed, therefore cutting out the mass production of generic goods.