Nature + Texture = Responsible Style

There is no question that today we are becoming more aware of the products we use in our homes, put in our bodies, and lay our children to sleep on. Sustainable, local, natural, organic, eco-friendly are all words that over the past few years have become a regular part of our vocabulary and increasingly large factors for how and what we buy.

In a NYTimes article about the 2011 Milan Furniture Fair, sustainable design was sited as one of the strongest design trends.
Despite the recent recession, many companies have found a niche in offering sustainable and natural products due to the continued growth in demand in this area. Consumers are able tap into their need to be environmentally conscious, without sacrificing style or function.
Additionally, the emergence of the sustainable, natural product has had a significant impact on the developing trend of texture. The two often going hand in hand, merging together to create a pleasing aesthetic that lends itself to another popular trend of mixing styles.
As many of us adjust to the current economic situation, changes in technology and global influences, as do our tastes and style. Design is enormously affected by what goes on in our world. The sustainable trend along with the idea that we want to make our spaces more personal and reflect "us" versus one particular style has designers incorporating various products and elements. Take a look below for some natural things (cmi rugs, of course) and spaces that are "mixing" it up. enjoy!

clockwise from top left: driftwood hurricane - anthropologie, organic ruched throw - west elm, natural flooring - restoration hardware, eileen fisher organic linen cargo pants - garnet hill, valencia bowls - sundance, wool flat-weave herringbone rug made by cmi using 100% natural wool- restoration hardware

Interior spaces that beautifully combine natural textured elements with both traditional and modern pieces . . . 

Interior space of the barn at the California home of designer, Patrick Printy and his partner Dan Holland. The space incorporates a reclaimed wood console, antique French chairs, vintage Eames chairs and other found items. Click here for the entire story and gallery from elleDECOR.

Living room as seen on design*sponge sneak peek featuring a reclaimed barn wood coffee table and other various finds. click here to see the post and images on design*sponge online.

Restoration Hardware bedroom featuring 100% all natural wool flat-weave herringbone rug made by cmi


 

Shear Natural collection from cmi's standard line, featuring 100% all natural un-dyed wool in a flat braid construction.

Shear Natural Collection - Rockport Gray - cmi

Texture shot of dark gray all natural wool