What legacy do you want to leave before you die? WATCH VIDEO

At Auckland Design Week, Lizzi's (Spaceworks Interior Architecture) whakaaro was this:

"I just want people to feel good in the spaces we create. That’s success."

Not "look good."
Not "attention seeking."
Just 'feel' good. I like that.

And that got me thinking about what sustainable design really is.

It’s not only about carbon. Or ticking green boxes. It’s about building spaces that FEEL better to be in. Where people linger. Connect. Work. Play.

And to do that, materials matter.

It’s hard to make a space feel calm and connected when the materials are loud, wasteful or temporary. Well... doesn't make a generation who care about sustainability calm at least!

And that's the opportunity I want Critical. Cleanstone to be a part of. Not because it’s recycled. Not because it saves carbon. (Although both are true.)
But because it just… fits.

And in 2 weeks time with the launch of 11 new Cleanstone colours - it will look subtle, feel natural, and built to last and age gracefully.

Not trying to be the centrepiece.

Just supporting the bigger picture.

I think more of us are starting to realise that:

Sustainable design isn’t about "being sustainable."

It’s about making better, calmer, more thoughtful spaces for people to be in.

Ngā mihi nui Lizzi Whaley for your value bombs in this mini interview series! Love your work e hoa. And kia ora Jen Jones for creating the space for these beautiful kōrero to happen at Auckland Design Week

If you’re working on a project right now — and curious to see how these new colours and materials can help — hit me up. New samples will be are ready next week. Jump on criticaldesign.nz to learn more about the mahi we do!

I’d love to know… when you design, how important is the feel of the space in your decision making? Drop it in the comments below.