Sustainable Design Takes Center Stage: Celebrating Innovation at Auckland Design Week

Sustainable Design Takes Center Stage: Celebrating Innovation at Auckland Design Week
Auckland Design Week Ltd last week showcased many glimpses into the future of design, and Critical. couldn't be more thrilled to have been part of it. I mean, check this installation out!

Was a joy to collaborate with the bros Anson Kong from Spacebar Design and Harry Urquhart-Hay from Wisewool as we created this stunning installation with our Clear Cleanstone panels. Spacebar's reusable and sustainable modular furniture systems and finished with @Wisewool's incredible natural wool products to soften the space.

This installation was a celebration of collaboration and the power of sustainable materials. Sexy and sustainability goes hand in hand.

So what does this now mean for the future?

We're in the midst of a sustainable materials revolution. The design community is increasingly embracing sustainable materials, like 100% recycled plastic panels for their beauty and environmental benefits.

Circularity and products that last will shape the future of fit outs like Spacebar's modular furniture. It's the poster child for reusability, a key principle of a circular economy. By designing for disassembly and reconfiguration, we minimise waste.

Polyurethane and virgin plastic foam fillers you find in your soft furnishings are on it's way out and natural fibres like wool are taking over. As designers design for the end of life and better quality products, wool is simply superior in so many ways.

Here are 3 practical tips for to help make your next fit out more sustainable:

Embrace Collaboration: Partner with suppliers who share your commitment to sustainability. Look for companies like Critical, Spacebar and and Wisewool who prioritize responsible sourcing and eco-conscious practices.

Material Innovation: Explore the potential of recycled plastic panels, FSC-certified wood, and innovative bio-based materials.

Design for Longevity: Choose fit-out materials (retail, hospitality, etc.) built to last. Modular furniture systems and easily repairable surfaces promote reusability and minimise environmental impact.

Research by McKinsey & Company (2022) suggests that a focus on circularity can generate significant economic benefits. By working together, we can create beautiful spaces while safeguarding our planet for future generations.

If care about sustainability, I'd love to collaborate on products and projects. Hit me up through our website (criticaldesign.nz) or DM today.

#Sustainability #AucklandDesignWeek #CriticalDesign #SpacebarDesign #Wisewool #SustainableMaterials #RecycledPlasticPanels #FitOut #Retail #Hospitality #CircularEconomy #Collaboration #Innovation #FutureofDesign
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