2 min read
WLLW’s Top 5 Articles Celebrating Craft
Discover WLLW’s most inspiring articles on the artisans, materials and heritage that define contemporary craft.
As the year draws to a close, we’re reflecting on the stories that resonated most with you – our WLLW community. These articles showcase the heart of what we do: exploring the intersection of health, sustainability and thoughtful design. From our in-depth look into healthy dyes to our exploration of the maker’s touch, which celebrates craftsmanship and community, these pieces reveal the power of design to enrich our lives. We’ve also delved into the importance of children’s furniture design, explored the age-old traditions of Zanat’s woodcarving legacy and investigated the hidden health impacts of modern construction. Revisit these compelling stories and rediscover how intentional choices in design and materials can create a healthier, more sustainable world.
The Hidden Costs of Synthetic Dyes: Health Risks, Environmental Impact and Sustainable Alternatives
In this article, we explore the potential harm caused by synthetic dyes, from their health risks to their environmental toll. We uncover how conventional dyes release toxic chemicals, impacting air and water quality, which affects our wellbeing. Discover the benefits of natural, plant-based alternatives, along with innovative technologies, that are safer and support a healthier planet without compromising on color.
The Maker's Touch: Fostering a Community Focused on Healthy, Sustainable and Beautiful Design
Celebrating the beauty of craftsmanship, this piece delves into the makers’ community and the artistry with which they use sustainable, natural materials. From woodworkers to weavers, these artisans prove that healthy materials and design can coexist, creating objects that are not only functional but also purposeful. Learn how craftsmanship connects us to tradition, enriches our spaces and promotes a healthier, more sustainable approach to the things we surround ourselves with.
Designing for Growth: How Thoughtful Children's Furniture Shapes Development
Why does design for children matter? This article highlights how thoughtful furniture choices can shape a child’s development while prioritizing their health and safety. By focusing on sustainable materials and ergonomic design, we explore how well-made pieces can reduce toxins, promote creativity and grow with your child. Thoughtful children’s furniture is more than functional – it fosters a nurturing environment for play, learning and wellbeing.
Zanat: Preserving a Woodcarving Legacy
Zanat, a Bosnian brand, breathes new life into centuries-old woodcarving traditions, blending heritage craftsmanship with modern design. This article delves into Zanat’s mission to preserve skills passed on through generations while championing sustainability. Each piece tells a story, marrying intricate hand-carved details with contemporary form. Discover how Zanat’s commitment to design, tradition and environmental responsibility creates timeless objects that honor both people and the planet.
New Homes: How Toxic Are Some Modern Construction Materials?
Are modern homes as safe as they seem? This investigation uncovers the hidden health risks of toxic construction materials, from VOC-emitting paints to synthetic flooring. Learn how these materials affect indoor air quality and overall wellbeing, and explore healthier, sustainable alternatives for safer spaces. By understanding what goes into our homes, whether we are designers or residents, we can make informed choices that support both our health and the environment.
Feature Image: Porfirio Gutierrez
Photography: Porfirio Gutierrez, Petr Krejci, Carl Hansen & Søn, Zanat, Brian Jackson/Adobe
5 min read
Communities of the Future: The Rise of Purpose-Driven Housing Projects
WLLW explores five communities of the future to understand the ethos that underpins them and whether they are blueprints for better living.
