Today we seem to be bombarded by information about the latest trends, in fashion, food, decor and lifestyle.
These trends are more often temporary, driven by popular influences and influencers. In a world where waste, resource scarcity and environmental destruction is an everyday reality, the trends we need to see are those that offer sustainable change, ones where what we purchase should be driven by quality, and not made for throwing away when the current trend is over.
Working at Cranfields these past months has taught me to appreciate that quality includes longevity, beauty and an investment in not just the artisan, but in something that will last well beyond the latest trend.
So I have chosen my three favourite things in store that tell the stories of the idea that quality should be lasting.
Sandra
I love the smell of my new cutting board. Every time I wash it, the smell reminds me that it is a practical thing of beauty.
The cutting boards are beautiful in their simplicity. Made in Australia from the camphor laurel tree, these eco-friendly boards have antibacterial properties, and have been tested as retaining these even after 10 years of use. What’s special about them is that they are made from a single slab of wood; no glues, no joins and no sharp edges and made to last. Not only practical, but beautiful in their grain, colours and shaping.
Instead of having to replace my board every couple of years, this one will last. And when it is done, it will be returned to the earth, no chemicals, glues or plastics in sight.
I admired this necklace in our jewellery cabinet ever since it arrived in store. Being curious about what it was made from and how it was made, I discovered that the artist re-uses vintage materials, the silver feather crafted from vintage silverware. Every piece has been handmade, from natural materials, semi-precious stones, freshwater pearls and silk thread.
The artist is telling us a story through her work. One not only of the songbird in the bush surrounding her home, but how re-use and re-imagination of old materials can extend their life through art. Objects that tell a story help us to connect with not only the artist but with the subject, it will always remind me of the tuis chasing each other around our garden.
Did you know that linen is one of the oldest known textiles, having been around for at least 30,000 years! Used for everything from clothing, tapestries, bandages and even mummy wrapping in ancient Egypt, linen has been cultivated, woven and worn since prehistoric man lived in cave dwellings.
This would have to be one of the longest lasting trends and is still going strong. Today modern linen is still being used in clothing, furniture, bedding and around the home. In store we have a colourful range of linen dresses, tops, tablecloths, tea towels, runners and napkins.
In this world where we purchase throw away items, using a linen napkin is a beautiful option, and being able to use over and over again means less waste in the landfill.
