While environmentally responsible construction is certainly nothing new, few are able to create sustainable pieces without sacrificing beauty and innovation. We do Wood of Denmark avoids these pitfalls completely. Conceived by designers Henrik Thygesen and Sebastian Jørgensen and established in 2006, the brand creates desks, tables, chairs, cabinets and more out of bamboo, the world’s fastest growing evergreen species of grass. Able to grow without insecticides, inorganic fertilizer or herbicides, cultivation of the bamboo doesn’t damage the natural habit and also helps to clean the climate during growth as it produces 35 percent more oxygen than other regional plants. The brand’s latest bamboo-based collection for 2012 is now available at select retailers throughout Europe.

Known for its high-quality handcrafted audio equipment, Symbol Audio has introduced the Modern Record Console as the flagship of its collection. Harkening back to the all-in-one consoles of the 1950s, the beautiful cabinet is constructed of American Walnut and hand-painted plate steel and features a hand-built tube amplifier, a turntable with a carbon fiber tonearm, and Sumiko Blue Point #2 cartridge. Complete with a built-in wireless router, the console can also play music from one’s iPhone, iPad, iPod or computer. Designed by Blake Tovin and Matt Richmond and bench-made to order in the Hudson Valley, pricing and availability can be obtained upon request.

Arriving just in time for summer, LA’s Aether Apparel and furniture designer Environment have linked up for a pair of beach folding chairs and a matching table. Crafted in the heart of Los Angeles out of repurposed ash hardwood, the pieces feature corrosion-resistant hinges and stainless steel hardware while the chairs feature backing fabric reclaimed from old army tents. Available in black and able to be folded down and stored and transported in an accompanying travel bag, the collaborative set can be purchased here for $495 USD.

Aiming to bring together carpenters and designers in a collaborative and creative endeavor, designers Karl-Johan Hjerling and Karin Wallenbäck have linked up with carpenters Gunnar Dahl and Karolina Stenfelt to establish SNICKERIET (meaning “carpentry” in Swedish). The Stockholm-based company has put out its very first collection of handmade furniture, which includes two beautiful, simply designed cabinets, a desk and light fixture using everything from steel and elm veneer, to pine and plexiglass. Developing pieces for both private and professional customers, additional pieces from SNICKERIET are soon to follow.

Milan-based fashion house Marni utilized salvaged materials and rehabilitated individuals from the city of San Gil as part of their “100 Chairs” offering of 80 chairs, 10 deckchairs and 10 tables – available in 20 colors, 7 models and 21 variations. Pairing craftsman with former inmates, colored PVC piping was woven into the seats and backrests. The project was created for Milan Design Week 2012, where the chairs were sold at the Marni boutique and proceeds went to ICAM Institute in Milan – an organization which enables the children of imprisoned mothers to spend their first years in a family environment more fitting for their growth.

Source: designboom

Showcasing pieces from Swiss furniture manufacturer Vitra is this short film from German artist and photographer Florian Bohm. Entitled “Remind Me,” the film sees many of Vitra’s most popular products in a domestic setting and explores the way in which one’s environment has a profound effect on everything from mood and individuality to history and memories. With set design from Paolo Bonfini, Bohm’s “Remind Me” is edited by Barbara Gies and features narration from Eckhart Nickel alongside music from Benedikt Brachtel.

Wood manufacturing company Karimoku has teamed with FABRICK on a stylish piece of furniture draped in legendary artwork from Andy Warhol. The camouflage print is available in blue, pink and green in a range of selections including single seat, two-seater and three-seater offering. The Andy Warhol x FABRICK x Karimoku Easy Seating is available for pre-order at Japanese furniture store STITCH with scheduled delivery for July.

In this short film, Ryan Bush explores the process behind the creation of Tanner Goods‘ finely crafted leather belts. Creative Director of the Portland-based manufacturer, Sam Huff, further discusses the durability of their preferred natural hide, his brand’s utilitarian design ethos, the city of Portland, the therapeutic process behind crafting leather goods, and more. In the end, if this doesn’t inspire you to get out there and create or even think twice about purchasing a cheap alternative to an expertly crafted product, then maybe we should take back that Hypebeast family ring we gave you.

Source: ONEEIGHTNINE

Presented at Salone del Mobile 2012, the Float Sofa from New York-based designer Karim Rashid features sensibilities we’ve seen from him in the past. Commissioned for Spanish imprint Sancal, the sofa is a collection of colorful and plush shapes that have been forged together to create one cohesive piece of furniture. Supported by wooden legs, the sitter is available in a range of colors and is certainly a conversation starter.

Source: designboom

It isn’t often that designers get a second crack at their creations no matter if it’s in the world of fashion, architecture or design. Yet, IKEA is doing just that as they’ve announced plans to revisit their Scandinavian past with their PS Collection – looking to add new inspiration and increased sustainability to older items. Set to make its debut at the Milan Furniture Fair, the PS Collection looks to improve on items meant for small spaces that require a bit of duality. Items include chairs that stack, furniture suitable for both indoors and outdoors, and items with hidden storage – all of which are comprised of green materials like bamboo. Expect to see items from the PS Collection from IKEA in stores in August.

Source: Co.Design