According to their website, Branchhome.com is a place where you can buy products that are wholly appealing—sexy, even—but that are also manufactured and brought to market in such a way that you don’t have to feel guilty about buying—or, eventually, disposing of—them.
At Branch, they’re all about sustainability.
What do they mean by that? In short, they think that products should be made in the most environmentally-responsible way possible. Also — and this is equally important — they think that products shouldn’t have to look eco-friendly to actually be “green”. Everything sold at Branch qualifies as being “sustainable” in some way or another (often in many ways). This could mean, for example, that a product is made from organically-grown fiber, or from recycled- or reclaimed stock, or from sustainably-harvested wood, or from a naturally-occurring, renewable material. It’s their hope that shopping at Branch gets people thinking differently about the things they buy and where those things come from.
There are certainly some fresh and intriguing products on their site.
These squeeze and Plant-Me Pets would make a great gift for a young niece or nephew. They’re quirky sculptures made of natural latex rubber. The “eyes” are actual seeds (melon, tomato, and pumpkin seeds), and their “skin” is soft and pliable. You can squeeze their bodies and they’ll squeak.
For Rover, there’s this RecycleBone – any pup would want to chomp. The RecycleBone is made from rubbery scraps left over from the manufacture of other chew toys. Your dog will will love that it’s super-strong and fun to gnaw.
And who doesn’t need these functional 100% organically-grown, non-toxic adhesive, natural food-safe wood oil bamboo serving trays? The company, Bambu who makes these in China, manufactures several other environmentally friendly bamboo items including thick sturdy cutting boards, colorful serving bowls, useful salad utensils, and some cool handy tongs .
Or this hip SixPack Wine Rack made in the good ol’ US of A of 100% wool felt. This clever wine rack is made from naturally renewable and recyclable materials. Also available are felt coasters and a cool wine pocket for wrapping and giving a bottle of wine.
Wanna splurge? This 100% virgin wool blanket from Italy, is more formally called the “Apart-n-Together” Blanket. The design celebrates the connectedness of people, and serves as a reminder of another when they’re not around. With each blanket that the company Hiroko Kurihara Designs sells, they donate a blanket made of recycled polar fleece to a local organization that serves those who are homeless or in transition. This act of giving requires no additional purchase: it’s simply responsible, ethical consumerism.
For the chef in the family or just someone that might need a little extra flavor in their life, pick up these Tiny Basket Bowels, perfect size for salt and pepper. They have most certainly made it onto my Christmas wish list.
I also adore this AUM Shoulder Tote made from 100% reclaimed sailcloth body. Cut from naturally textured cruising sailcloth that would otherwise be discarded, this tote’s rich history is highlighted and reinforced by perfectly simple, handmade details. The AUM Shoulder Tote is a unique chronicle of voyages past, and a perfect companion for adventures to come. Also available in a circle design.
Even my 100% organic mother would approve.
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