Ethical and stylish? Yes!
One of the biggest design trends in recent years is sustainability. Whether it’s choosing non-toxic materials, quality products built to last, or ethical sourcing—consumers are being more thoughtful about how their purchases impact the environment.
This especially applies to outdoor spaces, explains Nick Arambula co-founder of Neighbor. “Sustainability is resonating with consumers because there is a growing awareness of the impact of consumer choices on the environment. As people become more conscious of their ecological footprint, they are seeking products and brands that align with their values. Sustainable practices demonstrate a commitment to reducing environmental impact, which appeals to consumers who want to make responsible choices.”
Here’s what you need to know about creating an outdoor space that’s both stylish and sustainable.Accessibility Is Key
Mindy O’Connor, principal architect and founder of Melinda Kelson O’Connor Architecture & Interiors in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania has found her clients wanting more sustainably designed outdoor spaces. But sourcing sustainable pieces can often be impractical. “One challenge is choosing elements that are sustainable but also can compete with more mass-produced items in terms of cost and speed of delivery,” she explains.
Fast furniture has been a part of the problem, throwing a wrench into consumer expectations. People want things quickly, which isn’t always possible with high-quality, more sustainably made pieces, explains the designer. “The rise of cheap, fast furniture itself and the cultural acceptance of tossing out furniture as trends change or people relocate is often at odds with sustainability goals.”
Arambula also saw this pain point, which is why he started Neighbor in 2020. The mattress industry veteran sought to create sustainable, stylish pieces that were high quality while offering exceptional customer experience.
