I’ve noticed a shift generally across … well, society as a whole. People have been increasingly holding brands more and more accountable over the years, but COVID has made people more acutely aware, more acutely craving connection, and more acutely conscious with their purchases. This was definitely apparent at High Point and has been apparent in my conversations with designers and consumers recently. So, for this post, I’m highlighting brands that understood the assignment through a focus on sustainability, supporting artisans, and more!
Norwalk Furniture – Employee-Owned!
This was one of my favorite and unexpected stories from High Point this year. In our tour of Norwalk Furniture, we were able to hear from its President, Caroline Hipple and learn about the history and passion behind Norwalk. In August this year, Norwalk was sold to its employees, making it employee-owned. I love this – really giving back to the employees and giving them a true stake in their company. As a designer and consumer, I love knowing that the money I spend on Norwalk furniture goes straight to the artisans and craftsmen and other employees. Plus, their pieces are stunning!!!
Jaipur
Jaipur’s commitment to its artisans floored me (rug pun!) – Jaipur sets up in-home looms to allow women (and men, although 85% of their weavers are women) to work from home, weave on their own time, while still being able to take care of their children and families. As someone who works from home and a new mom – I have an entirely new appreciation for how important this is for families – and, by extension, humanity – worldwide! In addition, Jaipur pays women based on milestones for their work instead of paying them only when they are done. This is incredibly important due to how long it can take to finish a rug. Allowing women to be paid along the way makes this a much more reliable professional – essentially, women can get more regular, dependable paychecks.
Jaipur also allows their artisans to create freelance pieces using leftover yarn. These rugs are called “Manchaha,” which means “expression of my heart” and were some of the most beautiful rugs I’ve seen – ever!
Cisco
I’ve already touched a bit on the absolutely gorgeous space that Cisco Furniture calls home… but what’s even better is that this beautiful warehouse was an abandoned mill prior to Cisco breathing new life into it. It truly embodied Cisco’s commitment to sustainability – starting at the space they call home.
Cisco doesn’t stop at their warehouse, though. So many of their pieces are made of recycled or repurposed materials, such as upholstered chairs and benches made from recycled Guatemalan Rayas denim and recycled sarees.
