Hemp is set to make its mark on the textiles market thanks to a recently established collective of Australian designers who are committed to ecologically sustainable design.
Hemp is not usually associated with modern design; however, if these three passionate designers have their way, that’s about to change. Phillipa Wilkinson, Karen Brock and Sophie Seeger, all successful businesswomen in their own right, have recently established The Eco Collective, an Australian-based group that produces high quality soft furnishings using hemp and organic cotton. It was formed on the basis of a common commitment to designing with integrity and working with like-minded people on projects that are inspiring and sustainable.
“Hemp is durable, has thermal qualities and is low-allergenic,” says Sophie. “Combined with the sustainable element, its delicious textural aesthetic makes it highly desirable in a living and working environment. It will grow in popularity as people become more educated in the benefits thereof.”
Made available through an alliance with the Hemp Gallery, Australia’s leading supplier of sustainable hemp products, The Eco Collective’s range is suitable for use in a variety of ways, from curtains and upholstery to cushions and lampshades.
All three designers contributed to the first collection. Hand printed onto the fabric using lead- and chemical-free inks, it is called Modern Botanicals and references the wide and diverse range of flora that is native to Australia. Everything from their own backyards to the rainforest and the desert and back to ocean served as a source of inspiration for the three women. The fabric works perfectly for accent pieces like cushions, pillows or curtains in a modest guest bedroom that has been furnished bearing the wabi sabi aesthetic in mind.
Click here to check out more of The Eco Collectives designs.
