Each time I begin a project, I am heavy with the knowledge that what we choose to build and buy has an environmental consequence. And so I ask, what is the most sustainable path to realize our project? Ayni is a Quechua word which translates to sacred reciprocity and is the powerful concept that all living things are interconnected. As you exhale, the tree breathes, and as the tree releases oxygen, you breathe. The earth’s resources are being overconsumed, and it’s up to us to restore balance.

This year, more companies are limiting their waste, freight, chemicals, and deforestation. This is good news. However, we are a long way from full sustainability.

Here are a few things you can do today:

  1. Reward yourself with a picnic in nature, exhale and inhale in reciprocity with the trees
  2. Say no to fast furniture
  3. Upcycle and donate your old items, repair, recycle or repurpose broken items
  4. Buy local, ask how far the piece has traveled to reach you
  5. Invest in pieces that will last generations with high quality construction
  6. Purchase vintage and resale pieces from 1st dibs, Chairish, Facebook Marketplace, consignment stores, flea markets, collectors markets
  7. Buy zero VOC paints and low VOC stains
  8. Say no to chemical foam carpet pads, the wool pad is great and sustainable
  9. If the existing carpet pad is in good shape and older than 3 years and done off-gassing, keep it
  10. Buy carpet from companies that will recycle your old carpet
  11. When buying flooring, look at the material list and avoid synthetics and forever chemicals
  12. Avoid synthetic textiles. If buying synthetic, look for high recycled content
  13. Visit your local architectural salvage center, flea markets, and antique shops for unique elements including sinks, faucets, door hardware and so much more
  14. Try organic cotton sheets and towels, and unbleached fibers
  15. Donate to local environmental non-profits who put Earth before profits

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