The Challenge
The Challenge
The challenge presented to us was to develop a piece of furniture for a modern furniture company that utilized sustainable manufacturing practices, which could be measured and validated. No green-washing here! The furniture company was already manufacturing for corporate clients like Whole Foods and Starbucks, but wanted to expand their offerings to include pieces that could bridge the gap between corporate and private consumers.
Eco Design Strategy After conceptualizing and working with the client to evaluate potential opportunities for reducing environmental impact we decided on four strategic areas of focus.
Efficient Distribution 4
Optimized Manufacturing
Low Impact Materials
3
5 Design For:
2
Innovation
Low Impact Use
1
6
7
Optimize Lifetime
Optimize End-of-Life
The X Frame In order to reduce the carbon footprint, we chose an “X” design for the foundation of the table because it reduces the material used compared to the standard box frame for a table. This “X” frame design not only benefits the environment and consumer, but the manufacturer as well. The “X” frame requires only 140 inches of wood compared to 186 inches for a standard table frame. This extra 46 inches of material cuts directly into the bottom line. With the new design, the manufacturer cuts its costs on each product made. The “X” frame creates a lighter visual underneath the table. Coupled with the clean lines and pop of color it creates a modern but approachable appearance that is very versatile and fits well in many space.
Measured Results
We worked with our team of designers and life-cycle scientists to evaluate potential concept directions and eco-design strategies. We measured the; Bill of Materials, Manufacturing, End of Life, and Transportation carbon foot prints. From there we down selected to the most sustainable options.
The final design solution is offered in two leg configurations; wood and recycled steel. By utilizing reclaimed urban lumber, local material sourcing, and US manufacturing and distribution we were able to reduce the carbon footprint by 21% and 97% respectively, against industry standard material sourcing, manufacturing, and distribution.
The Heartland Table
The Heartland Table is a multipurpose heirloom quality piece of furniture. It was designed with a modern aesthetic and with sustainable manufacturing processes at the heart of its essence. It’s aptly named as its design, material, and manufacturing all occurs in the Midwest.
The challenge presented to us was to develop a piece of furniture for a modern furniture company that utilized sustainable manufacturing practices, which could be measured and validated. No green-washing here! The furniture company was already manufacturing for corporate clients like Whole Foods and Starbucks, but wanted to expand their offerings to include pieces that could bridge the gap between corporate and private consumers.
Eco Design Strategy After conceptualizing and working with the client to evaluate potential opportunities for reducing environmental impact we decided on four strategic areas of focus.
Efficient Distribution 4
Optimized Manufacturing
Low Impact Materials
3
5 Design For:
2
Innovation
Low Impact Use
1
6
7
Optimize Lifetime
Optimize End-of-Life
The X Frame In order to reduce the carbon footprint, we chose an “X” design for the foundation of the table because it reduces the material used compared to the standard box frame for a table. This “X” frame design not only benefits the environment and consumer, but the manufacturer as well. The “X” frame requires only 140 inches of wood compared to 186 inches for a standard table frame. This extra 46 inches of material cuts directly into the bottom line. With the new design, the manufacturer cuts its costs on each product made. The “X” frame creates a lighter visual underneath the table. Coupled with the clean lines and pop of color it creates a modern but approachable appearance that is very versatile and fits well in many space.
Measured Results
We worked with our team of designers and life-cycle scientists to evaluate potential concept directions and eco-design strategies. We measured the; Bill of Materials, Manufacturing, End of Life, and Transportation carbon foot prints. From there we down selected to the most sustainable options.
The final design solution is offered in two leg configurations; wood and recycled steel. By utilizing reclaimed urban lumber, local material sourcing, and US manufacturing and distribution we were able to reduce the carbon footprint by 21% and 97% respectively, against industry standard material sourcing, manufacturing, and distribution.
The Heartland Table
The Heartland Table is a multipurpose heirloom quality piece of furniture. It was designed with a modern aesthetic and with sustainable manufacturing processes at the heart of its essence. It’s aptly named as its design, material, and manufacturing all occurs in the Midwest.
