Branch - Sustainable Design for Living
Paul Donald and Tracy Brien, co-owners of Branch in San Francisco, CA firmly believe that products should be formed in the most environmentally-responsible way possible. This means that most of thier items are constructed from organically-grown fiber, recycled or reclaimed stock, sustainably-harvested wood, or from a naturally-occurring, renewable materials. Since they are so picky picky picky (and for good reason, duh!), they only work with artists who support their vision. Here are a few of my fresh finds from Branch.
Can't you imagine this is a modern home? It's a pure granulated cork cub children's chair from designer Daniel Michalik out of Providence, RI. An unusual texture that's as attractive as it is intriguing young children. $138 + free shipping.
Michalik also designed these alentejo cork bowls. He was inspired by the traditional drinking vessels that cork harvesters used to stay hydrated in the hot, arid fields where cork trees grow. Perfect for fruit, candy, keys, but not for cereal. (Only suggest putting water in them if you do add liquid. I would avoid altogether.) $88
Here are some zesty lacquerware bowls that you can eat out of since they're made of durable bamboo. Created by Bambu in Vietnam, they are available in 7 bold colors that would add a little zing to your modern kitchen. $15
I *heart* this woodland brown pillow because I love the deer, chicks, and rabbits... sweet! Designer Shelly Klein of K Studio, a mother-daughter company located in Grand Rapids, MI. Klein created it using 100% hemp, goose feathers, and down. Also available in natural. On sale for $83
And finally, your day wouldn't be complete without feasting your eyes on this delish ultrasuede aqua modular scarf, crafted by artist Gayla Rosenfeld based in San Francisco, CA. Rosenfeld's pieces are exquisite. In fact, some are featured in the permanent collection of The Costume Institute at The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. $224 + free shipping.
(all photos from branch)