In Australia, there are numerous brands that are creating innovative and environmentally friendly furniture. These brands use sustainable materials and practices to produce furniture that is both stylish and eco-friendly. Some of the notable brands in Melbourne that focus on sustainable furnishings include Upparel, Koala, Plyroom, Pop Up Desks, Koskela, Yard Furniture, Jardan, Retro Print Revival, The Natural Bedding Company, Agostino and Brown, Five Mile Radius, and Breeze Furniture Rental Service.
Key Takeaways
- Melbourne is home to a diverse range of brands and designers creating eco-friendly furniture.
- These brands prioritize sustainable materials and practices.
- Upparel offers the world’s first circular flip-out couch made from upcycled textiles and recycled plastic bottles.
- Koala’s cork sofa is biodegradable, vegan, and supports turtle conservation.
- Plyroom uses FSC certified timbers and eco-friendly finishes.
- Pop Up Desks creates minimal, locally manufactured desks and furniture.
- Koskela is a Certified B Corporation focused on ethical manufacturing and Aboriginal business support.
Upparel
When it comes to eco-friendly furniture, Upparel is leading the way with their innovative and sustainable designs. One of their standout creations is the Flip Up couch, the world’s first completely circular flip-out couch for kids.
Made entirely from upcycled textiles and fibers in Melbourne, the Flip Up couch is a testament to Upparel’s commitment to environmental consciousness. The inner cushioning of the couch is crafted from upcycled materials, ensuring a comfortable and supportive seating experience for little ones. The fabric exterior, on the other hand, is made from recycled plastic bottles, reducing the use of virgin materials and diverting waste from landfills.
What sets Upparel apart is their dedication to ethical manufacturing. They prioritize fair working conditions and ensure that their products are produced in an ethical and responsible manner. Moreover, Upparel goes the extra mile by offering a program to take back and recycle the Flip Up couches once they are no longer needed, closing the loop on the product lifecycle and minimizing waste.
Key Features of Upparel’s Flip Up Couch:
- Made from upcycled textiles and fibers
- Recycled plastic bottle fabric exterior
- Ethically manufactured
- Complete circular design
- Program for product take-back and recycling
Upparel’s Flip Up couch is not only a stylish and practical addition to any children’s room but also a testament to the possibilities of creating furniture using sustainable materials. By choosing Upparel, you can be confident that your purchase aligns with your values and contributes to a more environmentally friendly future.
| Material | Composition |
|---|---|
| Inner cushioning | Upcycled textiles and fibers |
| Fabric exterior | Recycled plastic bottles |
Experience the comfort and sustainability of Upparel’s Flip Up couch for yourself:
Koala
When it comes to sustainable and comfortable furniture, Koala is a brand that stands out. Widely known for their super comfy mattresses, Koala also offers a range of innovative furniture pieces, including their remarkable cork sofa.
The Koala cork sofa is an eco-friendly choice for conscious consumers. It is crafted using biodegradable and renewable cork, making it a sustainable and environmentally responsible option. The cork used by Koala is not only biodegradable, but it also comes from renewable sources, ensuring minimal impact on the environment. By choosing the cork sofa, you can enjoy a stunning centerpiece for your living room while contributing to a greener planet.
In addition to its biodegradable and renewable cork construction, the Koala cork sofa is designed with other eco-friendly features. It incorporates CertiPUR-US certified foam, which is made without ozone-depleting materials and other harmful substances. The sofa also utilizes Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) approved timber, promoting responsible forest management and sustainable sourcing practices.
For those who follow a vegan lifestyle, the Koala cork sofa is a perfect choice. It is entirely vegan, made without the use of any animal-derived materials. This makes it not only cruelty-free but also aligns with the principles of sustainability and ethical consumption.
Moreover, the Koala cork sofa is formaldehyde-free. Formaldehyde is a common chemical used in the production of furniture, but it can emit harmful toxins into the air over time. By opting for the formaldehyde-free cork sofa from Koala, you can create a healthier indoor environment for you and your family.
Furthermore, Koala goes the extra mile in their commitment to environmental conservation. Through their partnership with WWF, for every Koala couch purchased, the company adopts an Australian marine turtle. This initiative helps support marine wildlife and contribute to ongoing conservation efforts.
With its combination of biodegradable cork, sustainable materials, vegan composition, and formaldehyde-free construction, the Koala cork sofa is a prime example of eco-friendly furniture design. It not only provides comfort and style but also allows you to make a positive impact on the environment.
Key Features of the Koala Cork Sofa
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Material | Biodegradable and renewable cork |
| Foam | CertiPUR-US certified foam |
| Timber | Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) approved |
| Vegan | Made without animal-derived materials |
| Formaldehyde-Free | No harmful emissions |
| Environmental Impact | Supports marine turtle conservation through partnership with WWF |
Plyroom
Curating Sustainable Homes
At Plyroom, we believe in a mindful approach to curating homes that prioritize sustainability and well-being. Our brand collaborates with designers in Italy and manufactures our furniture in family-owned factories based in northern Italy, Melbourne, and Sydney. By combining our passion for design with ethical production practices, we create furniture that not only enhances the aesthetic of your home but also respects the environment.
We are committed to using natural materials and responsible sourcing to minimize our ecological footprint. Our furniture pieces are crafted from FSC and PEFC certified timbers, including Tasmanian oak, birch, and beech, ensuring the highest standards of sustainability. These certifications guarantee that our timber is sourced from responsibly managed forests, promoting conservation and biodiversity.
Ensuring a healthier indoor environment is another aspect we focus on. Our furniture is finished with eco-friendly plant-based wax or water-based finishes. These finishes provide excellent durability and protection while eliminating harmful chemicals typically found in conventional finishes. As a result, our furniture not only looks stunning but also contributes to a cleaner and healthier home.
As part of our commitment to sustainability, Plyroom is currently working towards B Corp certification. This rigorous certification process assesses a company’s social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability. It reflects our dedication to operating as a force for good while meeting the highest standards of ethical business practices.
“At Plyroom, we believe that creating a beautiful home should never come at the expense of the environment. That’s why we strive to incorporate natural materials, responsible sourcing, and eco-friendly finishes in all our furniture pieces.”
– Plyroom Team
In addition to our sustainable production practices, we are also committed to reducing our ecological impact throughout all aspects of our operations. We use biodegradable and recycled packaging materials to minimize waste and promote a circular economy.
| Materials | Benefits |
|---|---|
| FSC and PEFC certified timbers | Responsible sourcing, supports conservation |
| Eco-friendly plant-based wax and water-based finishes | Eliminates harmful chemicals, promotes a healthier indoor environment |
| Biodegradable and recycled packaging materials | Promotes waste reduction and circular economy |
By choosing Plyroom, you can be confident that you are not only investing in beautifully designed furniture but also supporting a brand that prioritizes sustainability and ethical practices. Join us in creating mindful, sustainable homes that reflect your values and contribute to a more environmentally conscious future.
Pop Up Desks
At Pop Up Desks, we understand the importance of creating a functional and comfortable workspace in your home. Our Melbourne-based company initially started as an exhibition display company, but we recognized the need for easy-to-use desks that could be popped up and down effortlessly, catering to the demands of the work-from-home lifestyle.
Our desks feature a minimal design, blending seamlessly into any interior decor. Whether you have a dedicated home office or need a versatile workspace that can be set up in any room, our pop-up desks are the perfect solution. They are designed to be lightweight and portable, allowing you to easily move them around as needed.
We take pride in our locally manufactured desks, ensuring that each piece meets our high standards of quality. Our manufacturing process takes place in Sydney, where we use MDF pieces cut to minimize waste, aligning with our commitment to sustainable practices.
Easy to Pop Up and Down
One of the key features of our pop-up desks is their easy-to-use functionality. Whether you need to quickly set up a workspace for a day of productivity or store away your desk to reclaim your living space, our desks allow you to do so effortlessly. Gone are the days of cumbersome, heavy desks that are difficult to move or assemble.
Minimal Design
Our desks boast a sleek and minimal design, making them a versatile addition to any home. Whether you prefer a modern, Scandinavian-inspired aesthetic or a more eclectic vibe, our desks will seamlessly blend in with your existing furniture and decor. We believe that a workspace should inspire creativity and productivity, and our minimal design ensures that the focus remains on your work.
Locally Manufactured
As a Melbourne-based company, supporting local manufacturing is close to our hearts. We are committed to producing our desks locally in Sydney, supporting Australian jobs and reducing our carbon footprint. By manufacturing our desks locally, we also have greater control over the quality of our products, ensuring that our customers receive desks that are built to last.
Not only do we offer pop-up desks for adults, but we also have a range of furniture for kids, including tables and mini picnic tables. These designs are created with the same attention to detail and commitment to quality, providing children with functional and stylish furniture options for their own work and play spaces.
With Pop Up Desks, you can create a functional and stylish workspace in your home. Our easy-to-pop-up and down desks, with their minimal design, are locally manufactured to ensure the highest quality. Choose Pop Up Desks for all your home office or kids’ furniture needs. Experience the convenience and style of pop-up desks today!
Koskela
Koskela is an industry leader in ethical manufacturing and sustainable practices. As the first furniture company in Australia to be a Certified B Corporation, we are committed to upholding the highest standards of social and environmental responsibility.
At Koskela, we believe that furniture should not only be beautiful and functional but also made in a way that minimizes our impact on the planet and supports local communities. That’s why we take a holistic approach to sustainability, considering every aspect of our operations, from sourcing materials to delivering the final product to our customers.
One of our key commitments is to ethical manufacturing. We work with local factories in Australia to minimize transportation emissions and support fair wages and working conditions. By keeping our production close to home, we reduce our carbon footprint while ensuring that our furniture is crafted with care and expertise.
In addition to ethical manufacturing, we are dedicated to supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses. Through our social impact programs and design collaborations, we create opportunities for these businesses to thrive and share their unique stories and artistry. By partnering with Indigenous artists and artisans, we celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Australia and promote economic empowerment within these communities.
Koskela is also actively involved in rainforest conservation. We have partnered with Rainforest Rescue, an organization dedicated to protecting and restoring rainforests. Through our collaboration, we contribute to the preservation of these vital ecosystems and the biodiversity they support.
Our commitment to sustainability is further demonstrated by our GECA certifications. This independent certification ensures that our furniture meets rigorous environmental, social, and health criteria, providing our customers with the assurance that they are making an environmentally responsible choice.
As a proud member of the Certified B Corporation community, Koskela is part of a global movement of businesses that use the power of business to solve social and environmental challenges. We are committed to continually improving our practices and finding innovative solutions that promote sustainability and positive change.
Koskela exemplifies ethical manufacturing, sustainable practices, and support of Aboriginal businesses.
Yard Furniture
Yard Furniture, owned and operated by Peter McManus, is a Melbourne-based company that specializes in creating bespoke furniture from recycled timbers sourced locally in Victoria. We are committed to sustainability and reducing the environmental impact of furniture production.
At Yard Furniture, we believe in the value of recycled materials and their ability to create unique and beautiful pieces. By using reclaimed Australian hardwoods from commercial and residential sites, we actively contribute to the reduction of logging and landfill waste. Our focus on sustainable sourcing not only helps to minimize the demand for new timber but also diverts materials from ending up in the landfill.
To preserve the innate beauty and individuality of each timber, we finish our pieces with natural, eco-friendly waxes. This ensures that the furniture retains its distinctive characteristics while also protecting the environment from harmful chemicals.
“We have made it our mission to create furniture that not only enhances the aesthetics of your space but also aligns with your commitment to sustainability. Every piece from Yard Furniture is a testament to our dedication to the reduction of logging and landfill waste.” – Peter McManus, Owner of Yard Furniture
With our recycled timbers, we offer a wide range of furniture options, including dining tables, coffee tables, chairs, and more. Each piece is handcrafted with attention to detail and quality craftsmanship. Whether you’re looking for a statement piece or a functional addition to your home, Yard Furniture has something for every style and taste.
Join us in our mission to create sustainable and environmentally friendly furniture that enhances your space while reducing the impact on our planet. Choose Yard Furniture for a stylish, eco-conscious choice that contributes to a more sustainable future.
Jardan
At Jardan, we are proud to be a certified carbon-neutral company, committed to a regenerative approach towards sustainability. We believe in considering the complete life cycle of our products, from design and construction to usage and recycling. By doing so, we ensure that every step we take contributes to a circular economy and minimizes our environmental impact.
To achieve our sustainability goals, we prioritize the use of sustainable materials in our furniture. We source FSC and PEFC certified timbers, guaranteeing responsible forestry practices. Our foams are GECA certified, ensuring they are environmentally friendly and safe for both our customers and the planet. We also use Oeko-Tex Standard 1000 certified wool, which meets rigorous standards for sustainability and quality.
As part of our commitment to transparency and accountability, we measure and report our efforts in waste minimization, energy usage, and recycling. This allows us to constantly improve our practices and strive for continuous sustainability.
At Jardan, we believe that creating a sustainable future requires collaboration and partnership. That’s why we work closely with local organizations and like-minded businesses to drive change and foster a sustainable ecosystem. Together, we can make a significant impact and pave the way for a better tomorrow.
“We are committed to creating furniture that not only looks beautiful but also respects our environment and supports sustainable living.”
To give you a visual representation of our commitment to sustainability, here is a table highlighting some key aspects of Jardan’s sustainable practices:
| Key Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Carbon Neutrality | As a certified carbon-neutral company, we offset our carbon emissions through various initiatives, including reforestation projects and renewable energy investments. |
| Regenerative Approach | We adopt a regenerative approach to sustainability by aiming to restore and improve the ecosystems affected by our operations, going beyond mere conservation. |
| Circular Economy | We promote a circular economy model by designing products that can be easily disassembled and recycled at the end of their life cycle, reducing waste and resource consumption. |
| Sustainable Materials | We prioritize the use of sustainable materials such as FSC and PEFC certified timbers, GECA certified foams, and Oeko-Tex Standard 1000 certified wool in our furniture production. |
To provide you with a visual representation of our commitment to sustainability, here is an image showcasing one of our sustainable furniture pieces:
Retro Print Revival
Retro Print Revival, founded by Tamara Watts, is a Melbourne-based brand that specializes in creating unique and stylish home decor pieces. With a passion for vintage prints and a commitment to sustainability, Retro Print Revival offers a range of floor lamps, vases, and planters that add a touch of retro charm to any space.
One of the key features of Retro Print Revival is their use of locally sourced timbers. By using timber from nearby forests, Retro Print Revival minimizes its carbon footprint and supports sustainable forestry practices. This also ensures that each piece is made with high-quality materials that are built to last.
At Retro Print Revival, every item is made-to-order. This not only allows customers to customize their pieces to suit their preferences but also helps reduce waste by avoiding overproduction. By taking a made-to-order approach, Retro Print Revival ensures that each item is crafted with care and attention to detail.
In addition to their range of home decor items, Retro Print Revival has also expanded their offerings to include retro face masks. Using spare vintage fabrics, they have created a collection of stylish face masks that combine fashion with functionality. These masks are not only a practical accessory but also a nod to the retro aesthetic that defines Retro Print Revival.
From their vintage-inspired prints to their commitment to sustainability, Retro Print Revival is a brand that embraces both style and responsibility. Each piece tells a story and adds a touch of nostalgia to any home. Whether you’re looking for a statement floor lamp or unique planters, Retro Print Revival has something to offer.
The Natural Bedding Company
The Natural Bedding Company is a Sydney-based family business that is dedicated to crafting beautiful bedroom furniture and mattresses using sustainably sourced materials. Since 1984, we have been handcrafting our pieces in Sydney, ensuring exceptional quality and attention to detail. Our commitment to sustainability is reflected in every aspect of our production process.
At The Natural Bedding Company, we prioritize using certified timber from sustainable forestry programs. Our furniture is handcrafted using Tasmanian oak, a durable and renewable material that adds warmth and character to any bedroom. We believe in using materials that not only look beautiful but also have a minimal impact on the environment.
We understand the importance of transparency and want our customers to have complete confidence in the sustainability of our products. That’s why we provide detailed information about our materials and processes. By being transparent, we aim to empower our customers to make informed decisions that align with their eco-conscious values.
By choosing The Natural Bedding Company, you are not only investing in high-quality, handcrafted furniture but also supporting sustainable practices. Our commitment to using sustainably sourced materials and transparent processes sets us apart, making us a trusted choice for those seeking environmentally friendly bedroom furnishings.
“At The Natural Bedding Company, we believe that sustainable living should extend to every aspect of our lives, including the furniture we choose for our homes. That’s why we are dedicated to creating beautiful pieces using sustainably sourced materials and transparent processes. We invite you to experience the difference of our handcrafted furniture and join us in our commitment to a greener future.”
Our Sustainable Materials
We take pride in using sustainably sourced materials that have a minimal impact on the environment. Here are some of the key materials we use:
| Material | Description |
|---|---|
| Tasmanian Oak | A durable and renewable timber that is certified by various sustainable forestry programs, ensuring responsible sourcing. |
| Natural Latex | A natural and biodegradable material derived from rubber trees, providing superior comfort and eco-friendliness. |
| Organic Cotton | Grown without the use of harmful chemicals, organic cotton is softer on the skin and better for the environment. |
By utilizing these sustainable materials, we create furniture that is not only beautiful but also promotes a healthier home and planet.
Our Handcrafted Process
Each piece of furniture at The Natural Bedding Company is meticulously handcrafted with care and precision. Our skilled artisans bring decades of experience to every project, ensuring exceptional quality and attention to detail.
We believe that handcrafting our furniture allows us to create unique pieces that can be cherished for generations. Additionally, our handcrafted process minimizes waste and reduces the carbon footprint associated with mass-produced furniture.
Transparency in Our Processes
At The Natural Bedding Company, we believe in transparency and honesty. We want our customers to understand the sustainability behind our products, which is why we provide detailed information about our materials and processes.
By being transparent, we hope to educate and empower our customers to make conscious purchasing decisions. We understand that sustainability goes beyond the final product and extends to every step of the production process. That’s why we are committed to continuous improvement and finding innovative ways to minimize our environmental impact.
Choose The Natural Bedding Company for sustainably sourced and handcrafted bedroom furniture that aligns with your values.
Agostino and Brown
At Agostino and Brown, we are committed to sustainability in construction and creating furniture that stands the test of time. Each piece we produce is carefully crafted, one at a time, to ensure the utmost quality and attention to detail. Our goal is to create heirloom items that can be cherished and passed down through generations, embodying both beauty and longevity.
Our bespoke furniture collection offers a range of custom-made pieces that allow you to express your unique style and enhance your living space. Whether it’s a stunning dining table, a comfortable sofa, or a meticulously crafted bed, we work closely with you to create furniture that perfectly suits your individual tastes and requirements.
Embracing Sustainability
At Agostino and Brown, sustainability is at the core of our design philosophy. We prioritize the use of eco-friendly materials and techniques to minimize our environmental impact. From responsibly sourced timber to water-based finishes, we strive to make sustainable choices every step of the way.
By creating furniture that is built to last, we reduce the need for replacement and contribute to a more sustainable approach to consumption. We believe that investing in high-quality, timeless pieces not only benefits the environment but also adds value to your home and lifestyle.
Our bespoke furniture is a testament to our commitment to craftsmanship and sustainability. Each piece tells a story, combining traditional techniques with modern design, resulting in furniture that truly stands out.
Visit Our Showroom
Discover the exceptional craftsmanship and sustainable luxury of Agostino and Brown by visiting our showroom in Adelaide. Immerse yourself in the beauty of our bespoke furniture collection and discuss your vision with our experienced team. We are passionate about creating furniture that exceeds your expectations and makes a lasting impression.
Experience the timeless elegance of Agostino and Brown and transform your space with heirloom-quality pieces that reflect your style and values.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Melbourne offers a wide array of options for eco-friendly furniture design and sustainable furnishings. The city is home to numerous brands and designers who are committed to creating stylish and environmentally responsible furniture. These brands prioritize the use of innovative materials, ethical manufacturing processes, and responsible sourcing.
Whether it’s incorporating upcycled textiles, utilizing renewable materials like cork, or sourcing sustainably certified timbers, these brands are making a significant positive impact on the planet. Not only do they create beautiful furniture, but they also prioritize the well-being of the environment.
If you’re in Melbourne and in search of sustainable furniture, you’ll be spoiled for choice. From brands that use reclaimed materials to those that are carbon-neutral, there are numerous options available to cater to your style and conscience. By opting for eco-friendly furniture design, you can create a beautiful and sustainable living space while supporting local businesses and contributing to a healthier planet.
FAQ
What is Upparel?
Upparel is an Australian brand that has created the world’s first completely circular flip-out couch for kids called Flip Up. It is made entirely from upcycled textiles and fibers in Melbourne. The inner cushioning is made from upcycled materials, while the fabric exterior is made from recycled plastic bottles. Upparel ensures that their products are ethically made and even offers a program to take back and recycle the couches once they are no longer needed.
What does Koala offer in terms of sustainable furniture?
Koala, known for their super comfy and sustainable mattresses, also offers furniture including their innovative cork sofa. This sofa is made using biodegradable and renewable cork, CertiPUR-US certified foam, and Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) approved timber. It is a completely vegan and formaldehyde-free option. Additionally, for every Koala couch purchased, the company adopts an Australian marine turtle through their partnership with WWF.
What is Plyroom’s approach to sustainability?
Plyroom is a brand that focuses on slowing down and mindfully curating homes. They collaborate with designers in Italy and manufacture in family-owned factories in northern Italy, Melbourne, and Sydney. Plyroom uses FSC and PEFC certified, sustainably sourced timbers such as Tasmanian oak, birch, and beech. Their furniture pieces are coated with eco-friendly plant-based wax or water-based finishes for durability and aesthetics. Plyroom is also working towards B Corp certification and uses biodegradable and recycled packaging materials.
What does Pop Up Desks specialize in?
Pop Up Desks is a Melbourne-based company that initially started as an exhibition display company but pivoted to create minimal, easy-to-pop-up, and down desks suitable for the work-from-home lifestyle. Their desks are manufactured locally in Sydney using MDF pieces cut to minimize waste. Pop Up Desks also offers a range of furniture for kids, including tables and mini picnic tables.
How does Koskela contribute to sustainability?
Koskela is the first furniture company in Australia to be a Certified B Corporation. They are known for their ethical manufacturing process, sustainable practices, and positive social impact program. Koskela uses local factories to minimize transport emissions and ensure fair wages and working conditions. They actively support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses through their social impact programs and design collaborations. Koskela also works with Rainforest Rescue and has GECA certifications for their furniture.
What materials does Yard Furniture use for their products?
Yard Furniture, owned and operated by Peter McManus, is a Melbourne-based company that creates bespoke furniture from recycled timbers sourced locally in Victoria. They finish their pieces with natural, eco-friendly waxes to preserve the unique features of each timber. Yard Furniture focuses on reducing the need for logging and diverting materials from landfill by using reclaimed Australian hardwoods from commercial and residential sites.
What is Jardan’s approach to sustainability?
Jardan is a certified carbon-neutral company that takes a regenerative approach to sustainability. They consider the complete life cycle of their products, from design and construction to usage and recycling. Jardan uses sustainable materials such as FSC and PEFC certified timbers, GECA certified foams, and Oeko-Tex Standard 1000 certified wool. They also measure and report on their minimization of waste, energy usage, and recycling efforts. Jardan is committed to working with local and like-minded organizations for a sustainable future.
What does Retro Print Revival specialize in?
Retro Print Revival, founded by Tamara Watts, specializes in creating floor lamps, vases, and planters using vintage prints and locally sourced timbers. Each custom piece is made-to-order in Melbourne to minimize waste. Retro Print Revival even launched a range of retro face masks using spare vintage fabrics in 2020.
How does The Natural Bedding Company ensure sustainability?
The Natural Bedding Company is a Sydney-based family business that crafts beautiful bedroom furniture and mattresses using sustainably sourced materials and Tasmanian oak. They have been handcrafting their pieces in Sydney since 1984 and ensure that all their timber is certified by various sustainable forestry programs. The Natural Bedding Company is transparent about their materials and processes, making it easy for customers to understand the sustainability behind their products.
What is Agostino and Brown known for?
Agostino and Brown is a furniture company based in Adelaide that focuses on sustainability in construction. Their pieces are constructed one at a time, ensuring the best possible quality. Agostino and Brown aim to create heirloom items that can be passed down through generations. They offer a range of bespoke items and also have an “in-stock” collection available on their website.