4 min read
Material Health: Design Frontiers
The book ‘Material Health: Design Frontiers’ from Parsons Healthy Materials Lab explores the critical topics of material health in the era of climate crisis.
It should go without saying that minimizing the presence of harmful materials in your home creates a healthier environment. Despite this, many new homes across America, constructed for expediency and under tight cost controls and outdated regulation, are failing their owners and occupants. These residences are built from petrochemically-derived materials whose extraction, production and end-of-life are not only profoundly damaging to the environment, but whose consumption (or use) exposes residents to harmful chemicals that can be released into the home’s air. Interior products and furnishings are also frequently packed full of toxic chemicals that can have negative impacts on our health. At WLLW, we champion healthy, low-impact vernacular materials and demand full material transparency from the manufacturers we work with.
116 results
4 min read
The book ‘Material Health: Design Frontiers’ from Parsons Healthy Materials Lab explores the critical topics of material health in the era of climate crisis.
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In the latest of our Healthy Materials Series WLLW considers the health and environmental impacts of glass.
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WLLW explores wool’s rich history, natural health benefits and its enduring role as a sustainable, versatile material in interior design and everyday living.
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WLLW traces the deep roots of natural materials used in artisanal crafts and their role in healthy and sustainable design.
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WLLW investigates the health risks associated with building materials and how to develop a healthier new build.
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Founding director Paloma Gormley sits down with WLLW to discuss the potential of bio-based materials, and how we can make meaningful progress towards a post-carbon built environment.
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For its 21st edition, London Design Festival showcased a vibrant tapestry of innovation, materials and craftsmanship across the city's diverse design districts.
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WLLW explores how HPDs empower healthy, sustainable construction by providing transparency in material selection.
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Wycliffe Stutchbury transforms discarded wood into art that evokes landscapes and abstract forms. WLLW joined him for a conversation about his creative process and deep connection to his materials.
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Discover WLLW’s most inspiring articles on the artisans, materials and heritage that define contemporary craft.
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Studio AMOS is a British craft studio led by Annemarie O'Sullivan and Tom McWalter. Their work is rooted in the ancient craft of basket making, and they grow and harvest local materials to make functional objects, furniture and lighting. Earlier in the summer, we paid them a visit.
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How to choose a rug crafted from natural materials that support the planet and your wellbeing.
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Clayworks is embracing natural materials and traditional techniques, to add depth, tonal interest and warmth to healthy homes.
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WLLW considers the health and environmental impacts of the leather we use in our homes.
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In the first of our new series, WLLW takes a comprehensive look at the health and environmental impacts of cork.
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WLLW meets the founders behind Forest + Found, an art collective that uses natural and found materials to create remarkable works rooted in craft traditions.
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A Primer for Healthy Homes and Interiors. Who is gatekeeping wellness and sustainable design? WLLW looks at green certifications in brief.
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WLLW explores how Greenguard Certification can allow you to make healthier choices for the products you bring into your home.
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WLLW takes a closer look at the green certification Cradle to Cradle which takes inspiration from the natural world where there is no concept of waste.
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Peel back the layers of your home's interior, from the paint on the walls to the upholstery on your sofa, discovering the hidden chemical world in everyday items and learning how to foster a healthier living environment.
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WLLW met with Soane Britain's co-founder Lulu Lytle to discuss the revival of traditional rattan weaving and the significance of heirloom furniture.
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WLLW explores the category of mineral paints, and tests four that meet our requirements for creating healthy and sustainable interior spaces.
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We delve into flame retardants, their widespread use in our living spaces, the health and environmental concerns they raise and strategies to reduce their impact.
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Inexpensive, sustainable, versatile and efficient: why the humble wood shingle is enjoying a revival in the building industry.
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WLLW delves into Declare label and the Red List as the demand for sustainable and healthy products intensifies, alongside the mounting pressure for transparent information for specifiers and consumers.
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We take a look at the Living Product Challenge, a green framework and certification program that elevates product sustainability standards.
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WLLW examines the role of the Forest Stewardship Council in advancing responsible forestry practices that maintain biodiversity and support community livelihoods.
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Discover common homegoods that could be impacting your wellbeing and learn about healthy and sustainable alternatives.
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Dive into the makeup of your bathroom, from the tiles underfoot to the vanity, understanding the hidden chemicals in common items and learning how to create a healthier, safer space.
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Find out what's concealed in your bedroom by uncovering the hidden toxins in the finishes and furniture, and learn how to create a healthy space to rest and recharge.
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From vibrant spice-inspired hues to ethical sourcing, discover how Yarn Collective is crafting an environmentally conscious future in textiles.
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In this article, WLLW explores simple ways to protect your home and health from PFAS, often called ‘forever chemicals.’
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Transform your space with environmentally-friendly updates that promote wellness and sustainability, one easy swap at a time.
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WLLW delves into how bisphenols and phthalates pose significant health and environmental risks and how implementing proactive measures is crucial for safeguarding wellbeing and ecological balance.
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At WLLW we seek to inspire a community that values health, sustainability and beauty in design by celebrating the lasting impact of thoughtful craftsmanship.
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WLLW identifies the health risks associated with VOC exposure and provides actionable strategies for reducing them at home for a healthier living environment.
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WLLW investigates four healthy and environmentally friendly bed linen options for a better night's sleep.
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Schotten & Hansen combine traditional craftsmanship with modern technology and their own blend of natural finishes to bring warmth and character to interiors.
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WLLW investigates the benefits of four upholstery options for our health and their environmental impact.
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On a recent trip to the UK, we had the chance to meet designer, craftsman and environmentalist Sebastian Cox, to learn more about his studio and have a tour of his workshop.
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WLLW explores de Le Cuona's healthy and sustainable textiles with palettes and textures that evoke the natural world.
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Many paints can be hazardous both to human health and the environment. Here’s how to find a safe alternative.
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In our latest brand spotlight, WLLW discovers how Teixidors is merging sustainability with a human touch in their approach to textile production.
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WLLW examines Oeko-Tex Standard 100, a key certification that safeguards against toxic substances in textiles, responding to consumer demand for healthier products.
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By reviving Bosnia’s age-old woodcarving traditions, Zanat preserves cultural heritage through exquisite craftsmanship.
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With craft and quality at the heart of her work, Maria Sigma reveals the threads that are woven into her happy, healthy home.
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Working with skilled craftspeople in Peru, Brazil and Nepal, Rosemary Hallgarten weaves their stories and time-honored crafts into textiles and rugs for contemporary homes.
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WLLW’s comprehensive guide can help you to select fabric that supports health, comfort and the environment.
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WLLW delves into how to recognize and manage harmful chemicals in domestic products, to create informed, health-conscious homes.
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We explore antimicrobials, taking a closer look at the importance of balancing their protective benefits and the risks of overuse.
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WLLW looks at the design concepts expected to shape our living spaces in the year ahead.
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Discover WLLW’s strategies for designing a living room that supports health, wellbeing and relaxation.
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WLLW spoke with London-based architect Ben Ridley about how the Passivhaus design approach and low-energy innovations are shaping the next generation of healthy, sustainable homes.
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A visual commentary on the resilience of indigenous Mexican art, agriculture and community.
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Discover WLLW’s strategies for designing a child’s bedroom that supports their health, wellbeing and development.
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WLLW dives into designing the kitchen, crafting a space for health and connection.
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WLLW highlights the work of four of our favorite artists and explores how carefully chosen artwork can elevate our homes and connect us to the natural world.
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Discover WLLW's strategies to design a bedroom that supports restorative sleep and overall physical and mental wellbeing.
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Discover WLLW’s strategies to design an outdoor space that promotes both our own health and that of the environment.
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We take a closer look at PFAS, uncovering their persistent presence in our homes, guiding you through the health and environmental impacts and the protective measures you can take.
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We explore off-gassing, its health implications and strategies for maintaining safe indoor air quality.
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WLLW speaks with Helsinki-based Anna Tiula, delving into the heart of Nordic biophilic design, its intrinsic connection to local nature and its significant influence on wellbeing.
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WLLW explores how to craft a home office that elevates both your work and wellbeing through intentional design choices.
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Discover how thoughtful design fosters creativity, safety and wellbeing, influencing generations and paving the way for a sustainable future.
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How to apply the principles of Wellness Design to the Healthy Home.
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WLLW explores how age-old architectural techniques from the world’s warmest areas can help us create sustainable homes that are comfortable even in extreme heat.
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What to consider when buying a non-toxic and sustainable mattress
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In the latest in this series which showcases healthy, extraordinary homes, we visit Finca Alfabia, a Spanish farmhouse lovingly crafted into a home by Terra Coll.
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WLLW speaks to the founders of Remsen to understand how the power of thoughtful design can change the lives of an overlooked population.
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In the latest in this series which shines a light on healthy and low-impact homes, we visit Maria Høgh Heilmann’s cabin, the perfect family retreat.
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In the final part of this series, we explore how to tackle mold when it is discovered and how to prevent it from making a comeback.
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WLLW explores the Global Organic Textile Standard as a hallmark of environmental and social responsibility in textile production.
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WLLW examines the solvents found in common household products, the risks they pose and the alternatives available.
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Celebrating its rich past, Mourne Textiles remains at the vanguard of innovative textile design and sustainable production in Northern Ireland.
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WLLW explores the hidden hazards of heavy metals and how they can impact our health and wellbeing.
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Part Two of this series covers the measures you can take to prevent mold from taking hold in the home.
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In this series, WLLW highlights healthy and sustainable homes from around the world. First off is Warehouse Greenhouse in Melbourne, Australia. A unique and environmentally friendly family home that challenges the typical residential style.
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The 3 Days of Design festival in Copenhagen showcased innovations being made by artisans in crafting a healthy, sustainable home.
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Discover the impact of optimizing your home's temperature, humidity and airflow on your overall health.
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We delve into the topic of off-gassing, offering tips for reducing it in your home, leading to better indoor air quality.
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Discover how the Living Places experimental prototypes led to housing that prioritizes wellbeing, community and sustainability.
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Our editors' roundup of the best healthy and sustainable home products to gift in 2023.
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Enhanced protections aim to shield families and children from harmful lead exposure.
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While synthetic dyes offer vibrant and durable options for home textiles, they pose serious health and environmental risks. This article examines these dangers and showcases sustainable alternatives that are reshaping the industry.
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In our rapidly changing climate, WLLW explores effective strategies for mitigating high temperatures to stay safe in your home
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The brand creates timeless, handcrafted rugs that celebrate traditional artistry while prioritizing the environment and social good.
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WLLW highlights the story of Munder-Skiles, a manufacturer of outdoor furniture whose pieces are designed and built to last for generations.
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Being surrounded by greenery does wonders for our physical and mental health – certain species can even purify the air in our homes. Here are eight of the most effective.
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In the continuation of this series, we delve deeper into energy-saving measures for enhancing sustainable and healthy homes.
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Advocates for sustainable craftsmanship, Jodie Fried and Sally Pottharst share how their values of simplicity and family connection have made their homes calming, nurturing spaces.
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WLLW explores how poor indoor air quality exacerbates asthma and allergies, providing strategies to improve air purity at home.
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WLLW delves into the ways our homes influence and actively bolster our mental health and overall wellbeing.
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In this introductory guide, WLLW explores the influence of colors within the home and how they can transform your living space.
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WLLW speaks with Vermont's Sawyer Made on blending traditional woodworking with craftsmanship in Windsor chairmaking.
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WLLW explores five communities of the future to understand the ethos that underpins them and whether they are blueprints for better living.
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Tala designs low-impact LED lighting that enhances living spaces while fostering wellbeing and environmental responsibility.
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WLLW explores the advantages of opting for vintage furniture and finding pieces that both enhance our wellbeing and tell a story.
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British architect, Sir David Chipperfield, has been selected as the 2023 Laureate of the Pritzker Architecture Prize – an accolade regarded as the industry’s highest honour.
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As we continue our journey into the realm of water purity, the focus shifts to the bathroom. Uncover the importance of water filtration and the steps to ensuring cleaner, safer water for your bathing routine.
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With the world's hottest day recorded on 21st July, WLLW explores how we can safeguard our homes against climate extremes.
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WLLW was given the opportunity to learn how Kyre Chenven and Ivano Atzori are melding contemporary design with Sardinia’s ancient craft traditions.
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WLLW spoke with the founder of New York's first zero-waste grocery store, about how consumers can reduce waste and single-use packaging in the kitchen.
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For the latest in this series, which highlights healthy and sustainable homes from around the world, we look at a wellness-focused property by Lake Flato Architects, designed for a senior couple to age gracefully in place.
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Amongst Los Angeles' diverse creative landscape, Kalon Studios stands out for its dedication to crafting furniture with a focus on environmental responsibility, craftsmanship and community.
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WLLW continues our kitchen series by focusing on functional design that can positively impact our overall health.
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An artisan at the forefront of re-envisioning the future of traditional woodworking techniques, George Sawyer reveals how simplicity and family connection contribute to a happy, healthy home.
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WLLW learns what makes Serenbe a sustainable, community-driven disruptor in the development market in a Q&A with founder Steve Nygren.
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Natural light is more important to your health than you think. Here’s what to do if your home doesn’t get enough.
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As the colder months draw in, WLLW explores how consciously-sourced candles can contribute to an inviting, healthy home.
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Bringing nature into homes through biophilic design improves wellbeing and connects us to the natural world.
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Drawing on Harvard professor and healthy buildings expert Joseph G. Allen's research, it's crucial to understand how environmental pollution impacts the air quality inside our homes, emphasizing the need to reassess and improve the air we breathe indoors.
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In Part One of this series, we explore the impacts of mold, some common types to look out for and its effects on health.
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It is my mission to connect our readers with a global network of experts, designers and makers.
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Join me as I share the story behind WLLW – a platform born from personal challenges, deep learning, and a passion for creating homes that support both people and the planet.
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We examine energy-saving strategies, illuminating their importance for home sustainability, boosting wellbeing and promoting the adoption of energy-conserving behaviors.