Conscious Maximalism - How to be a Minimal Maximalist https://ecoclubofficial.com/category/design-decor/conscious-maximalism/ Fri, 16 Aug 2024 22:33:43 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.2 https://ecoclubofficial.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/favicon-300x300.png Conscious Maximalism - How to be a Minimal Maximalist https://ecoclubofficial.com/category/design-decor/conscious-maximalism/ 32 32 Love Anthropologie Home Décor? Try These Ethical & Sustainable Alternatives https://ecoclubofficial.com/love-anthropologie-home-decor-try-these-ethical-sustainable-alternatives/ https://ecoclubofficial.com/love-anthropologie-home-decor-try-these-ethical-sustainable-alternatives/#comments Fri, 16 Aug 2024 12:52:39 +0000 https://jenniferandrew.com/website_7d530b64/?p=2734 If you’ve come across this post while searching for sustainable alternatives to Anthropologie home, you probably already know why they are a problematic company (as well as Urban Outfitters, which owns Anthro, Free People, BHLDN, and Terrain. Ugh.). From their “not good enough” rating on Goodonyou to claims of racial profiling in stores (and racism […]

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If you’ve come across this post while searching for sustainable alternatives to Anthropologie home, you probably already know why they are a problematic company (as well as Urban Outfitters, which owns Anthro, Free People, BHLDN, and Terrain. Ugh.). From their “not good enough” rating on Goodonyou to claims of racial profiling in stores (and racism in the workplace) to lack of transparency in production and their CEO’s disconcerting political donations, to finally straight up ripping off independent artists for years (this latest instance comes to mind), there are many reasons one might feel just a little icky about supporting Anthro. But… Their brand, their offerings. So beautiful, right?

It’s ironic of course that Anthropologie, Free People, and Urban all cater to more progressive minded shoppers, who love their globally “influenced” style and easygoing vibe. In the midst of various greenwashing techniques, they do partner with independent artists–just, I suppose, the ones they’re not stealing from. (And no, I’m not asserting that the exposure this provides for an artist is something one could or should consider turning down.)

rainbow tbco recycled wool blanket by wallflower shop
A colorful blanket by sustainable home brand TBCo, available at wallflower.

Many of my peers know at least some of this to be true, but if it’s not Anthro’s captivating branding drawing them in, it’s this thought that there is definitively no other option for those who desire this so extremely coveted look. But given the fact that these brands succeed by ripping off other artists’ designs, I do know there indeed are options.

So, if you love Anthropologie home decor, but not their ethics, this post is for you. The caveat is that there currently isn’t one single marketplace to get all of the dreamy decor AND fashion Anthro fans love. But there are some that offer one or the other (and you can find the sustainable fashion alternatives here!), and other indie designers to fill in the gaps. So yeah, it’s definitely harder to curate, but it IS a worthy option, to choose three or four of these shops rather than the URBN empire.

Let’s begin with 10 ethical alternatives for Anthropologie home decor… 

Archive New York

Archive New York, who we’ve mentioned before as a great spot for conscious maximalist decor and ethically made rugs, is a beautiful stop for handwoven artisan home goods as well as vintage & market finds.

Sustainable Alternatives for Anthropologie Home Decor

Antigua Pillow

Sustainable Alternatives for Anthropologie Home Decor

White and Orange Kitchen Towel

wallflower

wallflower is a brand created by eco club founders Jennifer and Angela (me!). It’s a small online boutique dedicated to objects, makers, and spaces that inspire. Perhaps not everything (we’re a bit quirky and we love it!), but many of our home decor selections follow a similar aesthetic: artisan, playful, whimsical, and refined. (If you choose to visit our shop, thank you in advance!!!)

vivid - design coffee table book by wallflower

We have a collection of design-inspired coffee table books

green and pink porcelain plates on maximalist taable

As well as a selection of handmade and ethically sourced decor and tabletop goods such as these porcelain plates, woven table runner, and candle holders. Shop all here!

Baba Souk

Our next sustainable alternative to Anthropologie, Canada-based Baba Souk is a beautifully curated online store for Moroccan made decor and rugs, kids decor, art, and lots of lifestyle goodies that make great gifts. They’re totally the refined boho look that Anthro offers, except you know, authentic.

Terracotta Sabra Silk Cactus Pillow

Sustainable Alternatives for Anthropologie Home Decor

Turquoise Sabra Silk Pillows – Handmade from Morocco

Goodee

Goodee is an inclusive global marketplace where good design and good purpose intersect. They have such a large selection that not all of it vibes with Anthro… but the fact that they do carry pretty much every category Anthro has when it comes to lifestyle & décor, makes it a great alternative.

Sustainable Alternatives for Anthropologie Home Decor

Eperara Siapidara Set of Twelve PET Lamps

Sustainable Alternatives for Anthropologie Home Decor

Pakurigo Basket – Natural

Pillowpia

New York based Pillowpia is a mecca of gorgeous, sustainable pillows and soft goods. With cozy neutrals accented by pinks, blues, and orange hues, you can achieve the Anthro look with a conscience. Recently they’ve expanded to offer tech accessories, beauty and self care, and clothing too.

sustainable pillows & home decor by pillowpia - collage of pastel pillows

Look at these gorgeous pastel pillows!

pillowpia's lilac placemats

Besides the pillows, I’m also obsessed with these gorgeous placemats.

Koskela

Australia based Koskela is a quality homeware and furniture shop. Everything in their design-forward catalog is made in Australia. (Note, only the decor is available for international shipping, the larger items are available Australia-wide.) They’re certainly more high-end than many shops featured here, but feature original artwork and craftsmanship.

Sustainable Alternatives for Anthropologie Home Decor

Minna Cartographer Pillow from Koskela

Better World Arts Cushion – Mitjili Napurrula from Koskela

Minzuu

Social enterprise Minzuu offers a gorgeous, extensive variety of globally inspired homewares from baskets and vases to bedding, bath, and entertaining. Their overall brand has a sophisticated, somewhat minimal look to it, so it doesn’t scream Anthropologie at first glance. But as you look through their selection, you find so many colors and textures to curate that sustainable, yet maximalist home. Learn all about their process on the Minzuu blog.

Sustainable Alternatives for Anthropologie Home Decor

Minzuu Sunny Day Coasters

Side note: I wanted to mention that Minzuu and a handful of the other sustainable decor shops featured here carry baskets, pendants, and accessories like the coasters above from social enterprise Kazi Goods. They offer many accents that fit the Anthropologie look, and I love how the different shops curate from their selection. We even have a few of Kazi’s pieces on wallflower!

Sustainable Alternatives for Anthropologie Home Decor

Plant Dyed Linen Table Runner

Pampa

Australian home decor brand Pampa is known for their textiles, rugs, and other sustainable goods. Their pieces are made by artisans in Argentina, and they ship worldwide. While they do carry some luxury pieces, a lot of their prices are comparable to Anthro, and even better if you consider how long each item will last.

Sustainable Alternatives for Anthropologie Home Decor

Pampa Monte Pom Pom Cushion

Sustainable Alternatives for Anthropologie Home Decor

Monte Bolster Pom Pom Pillow

Tribe

We came across Tribe Bohemian Home on Instagram right before writing our conscious maximalism home decor piece, and I think we just have to include them in every guide we write from here on out! Tribe is a curated collection of both US and internationally crafted goods made from sustainable and recycled materials in mesmerizing patterns, cozy textures, and playful colorways. New collections launch monthly so be sure to sign up for Sonal’s email list for updates!

Sustainable Alternatives for Anthropologie Home Decor

Coral Pink Moroccan Floor Poufs

Sustainable Alternatives for Anthropologie Home Decor

Faded Pink Moroccan Cactus Silk Pillow

Sustainable Alternatives for Anthropologie Home Decor

Macrame Planter Set Black + Blush + Green

St Frank

St Frank is a design-driven luxury home goods brand featuring only artisan and ethically made goods. They’re on the pricier end of the companies featured here, but offer custom made decor and textiles, a vintage collection, one-of-a-kind objects, and a virtual styling service. Did I mention they offer wallpaper?!

Sustainable Alternatives for Anthropologie Home Decor

St Frank Wallpaper

Sustainable Alternatives for Anthropologie Home Decor

Blush Daisy Suzani Throw Pillow

Sustainable Alternatives for Anthropologie Home Decor

Pink Diamond Huipil Lumbar Pillow

Where do you shop for ethically made home decor? I know there are plenty of bloggers with their own lists of sustainable alternatives to Anthropologie, but I felt many of them struggled a bit to match up the actual style of their products. Super important to the Anthro shopper, I know! I hope these provided a few new-to-you options.

For more ethical home goods, be sure to stop by the eco boutique! This page is a colorful, design-forward collection of products we’ve curated from independent brands, Etsy sellers, and other sustainable sources, updated monthly.

Sustainable Alternatives for Anthropologie Home Decor

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24 Sustainable Gifts for Conscious Maximalists – Home Edition https://ecoclubofficial.com/sustainable-christmas-gifts-conscious-maximalists/ https://ecoclubofficial.com/sustainable-christmas-gifts-conscious-maximalists/#respond Wed, 08 Nov 2023 05:00:56 +0000 https://jenniferandrew.com/website_7d530b64/?p=5290 Holiday gift guide season is here! Thank goodness it’s so much less challenging to find wonderful and sustainable gifts for Christmas and the holidays than it used to be. These days, our holiday gift guides are more and more fun (click here to see past guides, which have been updated for the 2023 holiday season). […]

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Holiday gift guide season is here! Thank goodness it’s so much less challenging to find wonderful and sustainable gifts for Christmas and the holidays than it used to be. These days, our holiday gift guides are more and more fun (click here to see past guides, which have been updated for the 2023 holiday season). This year, I have the pleasure of including a few items from our own shop, wallflower, which launched last fall. They are sprinkled throughout gift ideas from other eco club members and ethical shops we admire. In this gift guide I’ve focused on home decor and goods but if you’re looking for ideas in conscious fashion, you can find that right here! Too many great things to put all in one post.

sustainable holiday gift guide 2023

Collage of Sustainable Gifts for Conscious Maximalists

striped woven table runnercat shaped charcuterie board | korissa seagrass birdhouse | revival colorblock woven coasters | archive new york pillows | recycled cotton rug (sold out; find more ethically made rugs here) | block printed cotton lampshade | kantha quilt throw | suncatcher (sold out) via bon femmesvaisselle blue gingham candlesticks | salty & suite art print | bamboo tumbler mug

find more colorful, maximalist sustainable gifts for christmas below!

pastel colorblock taper candles

multi-striped colorblock candles made of soy from a sustainable candle maker in london. they are one of a kind and will not be coming back in stock once they’re gone!

pinkcityhome ruffle cushions with block print patterns - sustainable gifts for christmas

block printed cushions from pinkcityprints

is fair trade really better?

sustainable christmas gifts from eco club members: zuahaza pillow covers + scarf/ will + atlas jute wall hanging (sold out) / ohh happy home washable rug (use code ECOCLUBFREE for free US shipping) / blush blanket + block print napkins from wallflower

striped table decor & other sustainable gifts for christmas

striped artisan made table decor by archive new york

mustard boho pillow cover & other sustainable gifts for christmas

ivory + mustard boho pillow cover (shown with this kantha blanket)

check raffia placemats by ShopPaytonJames

check raffia placemats in lilac by Payton James

vivid: style in colour coffee table book by Julia Green + Armelle Habib

vivid: style in colour coffee table book by Julia Green + Armelle Habib

yarn lampshade by loving string & other sustainble gifts for christmas

colorblock cotton string lampshade by lovingstring

cotton waffle baby blankets by sugarhouseswaddles

cotton waffle baby blankets by sugarhouseswaddles… isn’t this palette so cheerful?

mosey me linen striped apron

linen striped apron by mosey me

handprinted natural flour sack napkins in bold colors by bright beige

handprinted natural flour sack napkins in bold colors by bright beige

tbco recycled wool blanket in fall colors from wallflower

tbco recycled wool blanket in fall colors from wallflower

We’ll be sure to add to this list as the season goes on, so check back. You can also find more gift ideas in our affiliate boutique here.We follow so many incredible designers and sustainable brands on social, I’m excited to spread the love however we can!

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Pastel Moroccan Rugs from Baba Souk + 20% Off! https://ecoclubofficial.com/baba-souk-pastel-moroccan-rugs/ https://ecoclubofficial.com/baba-souk-pastel-moroccan-rugs/#comments Mon, 06 Nov 2023 04:58:42 +0000 https://jenniferandrew.com/website_7d530b64/?p=6553 Big thanks to eco club member Baba Souk for sponsoring this post. We’ve included their Moroccan rugs in past guides and really appreciate the opportunity to dive into more detail about this fun brand! It’s no secret that I love to talk rugs around here. Searching for ethically sourced rugs several years ago set off […]

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Big thanks to eco club member Baba Souk for sponsoring this post. We’ve included their Moroccan rugs in past guides and really appreciate the opportunity to dive into more detail about this fun brand!

It’s no secret that I love to talk rugs around here. Searching for ethically sourced rugs several years ago set off an obsession with this homeware staple and eventually I began to share my favorites. First, our guide to ethically made rugs online, and later I got even more specific and shared the best ones from top brands. And each time I’d round up my favorites, Baba Souk rugs would top the list. They were always on the more colorful end, especially when it comes to pastel rugs that fit my aesthetic.

Today we’re getting even more specific about these special pieces and why Baba Souk is such a great place for sourcing artisan-made Moroccan rugs and decor if you live in the US or Canada (where you can enjoy FREE shipping on purchases over $100!). Thanks to their founder and owner Stephanie for filling me in!

Baba Souk pink checker Moroccan rug

Baba Souk is an online destination for artisan made Moroccan home decor best known for their nursery rugs, wool rugs, and most recently their line of rugs made from 100% recycled cotton… including this blush pink checkered rug! It’s available in three sizes, made to order, and also can be customized if you have a specific shade request! Love this as an area rug for a bright living room.

pastel nursery rug and colorful nursery room from baba souk

As you can imagine, the shop is a popular destination for artisan made nursery rugs! Their pastel hues obviously lend beautifully to bright, cheerful spaces like those you’d design for a new baby. Stephanie recommends their cotton line for nurseries or kids rooms, as they are super duper easy to clean.

Baba Souk Moroccan rugs collection

As mentioned, some of their rugs are made-to-order by their team of artisans in Morocco but the majority of the rugs you see online are in stock. They also have a loft you can visit if ever you’re heading to Montreal!

neutral area rugs for the living room - talking moroccan rugs with baba souk

About Baba Souk

Let’s talk history. Baba Souk founder Stephanie fell in love with Moroccan rugs during her first visit to Marrakech, where her husband was born and raised, back in 2011. Her husband knew many local artists and Stephanie began to think of how she could not only bring a bit of Morocco back home, but share their talents with people abroad. Now, after ten years in business, Stephanie not only curates her rug collection, but works with her team of artisans to develop custom pieces. She’s a former clothing designer, so this work is totally up her alley!

cactus silk pillows and soft pastel moroccan rugs from baba souk

ethically made moroccan rugs with stephanie of baba souk

Why Moroccan rugs?

Besides their creative designs, Baba Souk is committed to offering rugs that help combat throwaway culture. These rugs are made to last. They invite you to design a space you’ll love in the long term…not one you’ll look at in a year and want to completely replace everything in.

It helps to know how to care for the rug you want, so you can check out this guide while choosing a type (wool, cotton etc) It may feel a bit daunting to invest in a new area rug, but it’s easier when you know your rug is going to last at least a decade! And it can even be something you give another life to by selling or donating afterward, in your local community.

pastel bedroom ideas and colorful rug

On Baba Souk, you can shop by rug size and fabric to find the perfect one to suit your needs.

pastel nursery rug with arrows from baba souk

pastel bedroom ideas featuring baba souk rugs

Moroccan rug sustainability

Their wool rugs are still 100% handcrafted using ethical production, but if you’re looking specifically for rugs made of sustainable materials, that’s where their recycled cotton Boucherouite rug collection comes in. These rugs are made of leftover fabric scraps from clothing factories in Casablanca where many fast fashion brands produce their pieces (and waste). This gives them a fluffier texture than you might think of when it comes to cotton rugs.

pink checkerboard rug

pink checkerboard rug with cute coffee table

I can see these as nursery rugs OR in any adult space… Maybe it’s just me, but I think every room can benefit from a colorful statement pieces. But! If you love the look in a more neutral palette, their Beni Ourain rugs are a gorgeous choice:

moroccan beni rugs from baba souk in pastel danish style living room with marble coffee table

You probably know that Moroccan rug designs, like the thick and fuzzy Beni Ourain variety, are trending right now. But the copycat designs being developed by big box stores are merely attempting to recreate the look… not the details or craftsmanship. Stephanie says, It’s easy to tell when it’s not the real thing. Moroccan rugs are hard to duplicate because they are 100% handmade. A machine-manufactured rug is just too straight, too white, too shiny, and has so much less appeal. Our handmade Moroccan rugs are the coziest thing you’ll ever step on. Super thick and hand-knotted with luxurious wool.

cute pastel workspace with white design and colorful rug

If you’re like me, you’re probably dreaming up all the nooks in crannies in your home that might suddenly *need* a rug.

moroccan beni ourain rug with pink and blue diamonds

A joyful source of color and artisan made goodies since 2012, Baba Souk now offers not only rugs, but bath mats, pillows, poufs, baskets, and decor. I could honestly spend hours on their website and am so excited to welcome them to our ethical shopping directory! If you feel the same, be sure to use code ECOCLUB for 20% off your rug order!

Find them at babasouk.ca and in our directory here

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Shop We Love: Garza Marfa https://ecoclubofficial.com/shop-we-love-garza-marfa/ https://ecoclubofficial.com/shop-we-love-garza-marfa/#respond Mon, 30 Oct 2023 05:00:01 +0000 https://jenniferandrew.com/website_7d530b64/?p=6557 Lost a good two hours to Garza Marfa’s online shop the other day, thanks to Pinterest—but no regrets. This vibrant home boutique and bespoke furniture studio out of Marfa, TX, specializes in artisan textiles and goods made in collaboration with their in-house designers, fair trade cooperatives, and independent vendors. Owned and operated by a husband […]

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Lost a good two hours to Garza Marfa’s online shop the other day, thanks to Pinterest—but no regrets. This vibrant home boutique and bespoke furniture studio out of Marfa, TX, specializes in artisan textiles and goods made in collaboration with their in-house designers, fair trade cooperatives, and independent vendors. Owned and operated by a husband and wife team with backgrounds in welding, fine arts, and textiles, Garza Marfa is known for the Southwest meets California Coast style seen in their upholstery, woven goods, and decor. Their Marfa brick and mortar is home to their original line plus a smattering of other inspiring objects by an expertly curated community of vendor partners. Upon seeing the photos below, I thought our community would appreciate the chance to explore further…as conscious-design, home goods, and color are a favorite of ours.

Striped pillows from Garza Marfa

Stack of vintage blanket pillows

Colorful striped linens from Garza Marfa

Collection of linen hand towels

Inside Garza Marfa

Garza Marfa store in Marfa, TX

striped handmade chair by Garza Marfa

Upholstered boxy armchair

Colorful ceramics from Garza Marfa

A shelf featuring ceramics and homewares from curated artists (this photo is by @deborahdenker). See their current lineup of ceramic objects here.

boho southwest bedding from Garza Marfa

striped blanket by Garza Marfa

Their Khadi desert blankets are hand-spun, dyed, and woven in India using Garza Marfa’s designs. 

colorful striped linen blanket from Garza Marfa

striped hand towel by Garza Marfa

striped pillowcases from Garza Marfa

Beautiful bedding from their linen and cotton collection.

pink cotton linen pillow with orange piping from Garza Marfa

Colorful linen pillows with bold piping are exclusively available at Garza Marfa. 

colorful boho striped pillows and blankets from Garza Marfa

After getting to know the brand via GarzaMarfa.com and their Instagram, we love their dedication to craftsmanship, conscious souring, and thoughtful design. Eco club approved!

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Painting a Pink Accent Wall with Clare Paint https://ecoclubofficial.com/painting-a-pink-accent-wall-with-clare-paint/ https://ecoclubofficial.com/painting-a-pink-accent-wall-with-clare-paint/#comments Tue, 18 Apr 2023 05:00:49 +0000 https://jenniferandrew.com/website_7d530b64/?p=5864 It’s ever so slowly starting to feel like spring, but for now I’m happy hanging inside (with all the blinds up, of course) because I finally finished the pink accent wall project I’ve been dreaming up for many moons! I’m an interior paint novice, but there are just too many white walls in this apartment […]

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It’s ever so slowly starting to feel like spring, but for now I’m happy hanging inside (with all the blinds up, of course) because I finally finished the pink accent wall project I’ve been dreaming up for many moons! I’m an interior paint novice, but there are just too many white walls in this apartment of ours. I decided months ago that it needed a pop, preferably pink, but it took time to research sustainable paint companies before I found a brand I aligned with and that featured colors I loved. Enter: Clare paint. They agreed to send me two colors + paint supplies to try, and I’m excited to show you the result and a full review in this post!

I’ve always loved how white walls are like a bright blank canvas, but as a conscious maximalist I crave color. We have this west-facing wall opposite our sliding door in our living room which gets tons of light and was just begging to be upgraded. We actually moved in last August and I’ve done nothing with this corner of the room. I finally decided on a simple console table and that it would feature a gallery of framed art. Over the months I collected art and frames (it’s wild how this little collection actually took so much planning!) Once I had a handle on that, I knew that paint was the missing piece!

Painting a Pink Accent Wall with Clare Paint - eco club

Sourcing Sustainable Interior Paint

So began my research into what VOCs actually are, paint sustainability, and why I’d go with one paint brand over another. Before I got to the accent wall, I actually touched up some of the trim in our apartment with a mainstream paint. The paint all over this unit is, to put it kindly, less than professional, and the trim had nicks and scratches everywhere. (The walls that I painted over during this project were super unevenly textured too.) That basic paint was what I’d call high odor (haha), I had to be on top of ventilating and tried to breathe in as little as possible. This was a helpful experience because once I got to the Clare paint, I immediately noticed the low odor, not to mention didn’t feel queasy when I got too close to it!

Is Clare paint sustainable? What I liked about Clare was that their paint is not only free of toxins (see below), but they are an eco-conscious company… Even down to their supplies. For example, the paint liners and trays (seen below) are made of recycled materials. Packaging supplies are made of 100% recycled material. And, their paint is LEED compliant. I’ve seen so many companies prioritize human health but disregard their effect on the environment, when the two should really be intertwined.

Meet Cute Paint from Clare

What are VOCs?

VOCs are a group of carbon-based chemicals (the most common is formaldehyde) present in home construction and maintenance products such as flooring, building materials, and paint. VOCs have been linked to anything from minor irritation while using to cancers caused by long term exposure. As far as I can tell, there isn’t universal guidance for the levels of VOCs that can safely be in a home (where air pollutants can be worse than outside!); the general consensus is simply that you should limit them as much as possible. Apparently, they’re what’s responsible for that “new home” or “new car” smell! No wonder that always gave me a headache…

When it comes to sustainability, some VOCs can act as indirect greenhouse gases in the form of air pollution. VOCs can accumulate in the air and ground water, so they are of concern for both the environment and personal health.

What is GREENGUARD Certification?

GREENGUARD is a certification by safety leader UL Solutions that analyzes products for chemical emissions. This certification process emerged as a way for low-emission companies to let their customers know health and safety is a priority. According to UL Solutions, “If a product has been UL GREENGUARD Certified, it has been tested and scientifically proven to have low chemical emissions.” They test for more than 10,000 chemicals in their labs.

before - painting with Clare paint

Zero VOC Paint

Clare is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. “Gold” indicates that a brand has even more strict standards as to which chemicals are allowed in their products. (You’ll find that many sustainable children’s brands go the extra mile to get this so that health conscious parents can have confidence in their products.) The Gold certification further limits formaldehyde in particular. (Confession: I’m not sure how much formaldehyde is or should be allowed in any product–certification or not.)

Clare says, Our paint is Zero VOC, which means no carbon-based solvents (VOCs) have been intentionally added to our products, although trace amounts of VOC may be present as residual components of other ingredients.

When researching sustainable paint companies, I found several that advertise low-VOC paint. Clare was one of the only companies I’ve ever heard of that offers Zero VOC paint. They also contain zero EPA chemicals of concern. Comparable paint brands I came across had a higher price point as well. 

Trying paint samples in my dining nook for an accent wall!

Trying Removable Swatches

Over the holidays I had my Christmas tree and bar cart in the living room space, but it’s been empty (and driving me bananas) ever since the new year! I tried their removable paint swatches on my blank slate as well as in my dining nook. You can purchase the peel-and-stick paint samples individually or in curated sets (they sent me minty Rain Check + the other swatches shown are from their Sunset Shades kit) which are available with free shipping.

Side note: Before I reached out to Clare I had already ordered a few swatches, Wing It for the pink wall and Headspace + Dirty Martini potentially for my dining nook, which I’ll share more about soon. But they weren’t *quite* right. Miraculously as I was mulling it over I got an ad for their new hue Rain Check, which is an almost neutral green-blue, so I went with that for the nook. More on that later!

Clare paint Meet Cute paint sample

Choosing Color

This is an awful photo but I wanted to show how accurate the swatch is! Keep in mind that the color will change throughout the day depending on the light. I had my swatches covering the wall for days before I landed on Meet Cute. Originally I felt Wing It was more my style (I’m a pastel girl at heart) but I was told it seemed too light and baby pink. The Meet Cute swatch looked a bit dark, but of course it was contrasted with near-white. It looked beautiful in the Instagram photos I saw it in. I couldn’t decide, but when Kevin said he liked it better I went with it (he lives here too, after all) and I’m super happy I did. I think anything lighter would look washed out in the sunlight. This makes a statement!

When it came to how much paint is needed for an accent wall, I used their paint calculator and advice on their website. I ordered a gallon because at the time I wasn’t sure if I’d paint other walls with Meet Cute too, but just a quart would have done the trick! I was shocked, as a quart seems like such a small amount, but for two coats it’s totally accurate. This is also great news as opting for sustainable, zero VOC and low odor designer interior paint can come with an increased price tag over some of the mainstream brands, but you can save a lot by only getting what you need.

The Painting Process

The paint arrived quickly and I decided to knock it out over a weekend (one day for this wall). I read the instructions and got started! You can see the process on our Instagram. I was excited to see how quickly their paint dries. It was ready for its next coat in maybe an hour. I also liked their painter’s tape more than the standard blue kind. I used some blue I already hand on hand so I could compare and the yellow sticks better and tears off easier. I must say I’m pretty impressed with my paint job considering I’ve only ever painted a wall once. At least compared to how it was!

Pink gallery wall with vintage glassware and Meet Cute from Clare paint

It would likely have helped to hide some of the previous paint job’s imperfections by using their primer, but I’m still happy with the result.

Painting a Pink Accent Wall with Clare Paint - eco club

My Gallery Wall

Once finished, I moved my table back and got to decorating! We finally put up the art and photos I’d been collecting. I’ll share sources for the decor pictured below, but on the wall is a mix of art and my personal photos (sunsets and flowers). The frames are a mix of gold, wood, and bamboo, and some cheaper ones I’ve had forever.

Painting a Pink Accent Wall with Clare Paint / Art gallery wall

The following week was my birthday, so I shuffled to get this all decorated by time I had a few friends over to celebrate! Hence the bubbly, candy bowl, and too cute to handle butterfly birthday cake by Charity.

butterfly cake / pink wall in Meet Cute by Clare paint

Clare paint 'Meet Cute' with console table and gallery wall ideas

During golden hour the whole place lights up! As you can probably tell, I took these photos at different times throughout the day, which changes the pink hue slightly. I gave all the photos the same minimal edit so you could see the difference.

Meet Cute pink statement wall with Clare paint

Once the sun set, everything took on a cooler tone. By the way, I kept a strip of the original paint color at the top which mimicked the bottom trim. Would be amazing if we had moulding but alas. I was too nervous to paint right up to the popcorn ceilings and hope it would detract a bit anyway.

Pink accent wall with Clare Paint Meet Cute and gallery art wall

This one was taken at night with the warm light from my living room lamps. See below for the art and decor sources; some of the pieces featured are available in Jenn and my boutique, wallflower!

Sources: Paint, Swatches, and Supplies: Meet Cute from Clare | Candle: Wildwood Candle Co | Twist Candles: Wallflower | Picnic Basket: Wallflower | Truffles: Seattle Chocolate | Vivid Book: Wallflower | Bloom Book: | Vases + Vintage Glassware: Etsy + Thrifted | Cat Lady Print: Alja Horvat | Green Coat Art Print by La Poire: Wallflower | Floral Still Life: Helen McCullagh | Abstract Print: Wilde House Paper | Pink Wall Print: Esther Pai | Petal Puzzle: Wallflower | Pink Throw Blanket: Wallflower | Sage Chair: Target | Cloth Napkins: Wallflower

Thanks to Clare paint for collabing with me on this accent wall project! Meet Cute is the perfect hue for Spring.

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From Yarn Lampshades to Indian Block Print, What’s Inspiring Us on January 13, 2023 https://ecoclubofficial.com/from-yarn-lampshades-to-indian-block-print-whats-inspiring-us-on-january-13-2023/ https://ecoclubofficial.com/from-yarn-lampshades-to-indian-block-print-whats-inspiring-us-on-january-13-2023/#comments Fri, 13 Jan 2023 05:00:09 +0000 https://jenniferandrew.com/website_7d530b64/?p=5505 Every time I scroll through our Insta, I get inspired by the makers we discover everyday. Often it’s something I see a lot of in the creative corners of IG like ceramic mugs or macrame and weaving, that catches my eye because it can be done in endless innovative ways, all original and spectacular in […]

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Every time I scroll through our Insta, I get inspired by the makers we discover everyday. Often it’s something I see a lot of in the creative corners of IG like ceramic mugs or macrame and weaving, that catches my eye because it can be done in endless innovative ways, all original and spectacular in their own right. I mean, I used to obsess over crochet scarves, and now it’s yarn lampshades using this key material that I can’t get enough of (seriously, ask Pinterest). We see artists from around the world thanks to social media, some of them founders of brands featuring collections dedicated to their craft, others that produce on commission or just for the love of it all. These little wow moments of discovery are some of my favorite (and the primary reason I haven’t abandoned the platform altogether), so I’m experimenting a bit and sharing them here on the blog… Our Saves folder is too beautiful to be private any longer.

Angela Chvarak ceramic mugs and tumblers

So happy to have stumbled upon Angela Chvarak‘s mood-boosting ceramic mugs. I could stock my whole kitchen with these rainbow ceramics! (@angelachvarakstudio)

yarn lampshade by DutchWoolDesign

I’m having a moment with the craft of yarn lampshades and DutchWoolDesign, out of The Netherlands,  is one of the top artists. This is a large yarn wrapped lampshade in some of my favorite colors.

Macrame bags by Vanhu Vamwe.

This reel by @seventhrowvintage stopped me in my tracks, so I had to learn more about the incredible bags by Vanhu Vamwe. Here’s the circular bag featured above. The brand works with artisans in a macrame community in Zimbabwe, and they also have a more colorful collection that’s just as dreamy! (@vanhuvamwe)

livia falcaru reusable bag illustration

Romanian artist Livia Falcaru was commissioned by Science Moms for this cheeky reusable bag illustration. #wordstoliveby (@liviafalcaru)

pink and green bow top by HERA

My goodness this green + pink bow top by slow fashion brand HERA, who designs and produces clothing ethically in Ecuador, is giving me summer feels in January. (@_hera_studio)

tammykanat.com beautiful flower rainbow weaving wall art

tammykanat.com beautiful flower rainbow weaving wall art

If it’s not already obvious, I’m feeling so inspired by textile art and weaving lately! This work from Melbourne based Tammy Kanat caught my eye, though it was produced in 2020. I’m also mesmerized by another floral piece from 2020 shown here. I don’t think I’ll ever get over all the wonderful things people can do with yarn. (@tammykanat)

beautiful scalloped blockprint dinner napkins from wallflower

We’ve just listed some new Indian blockprint and scalloped napkin sets in the wallflower shop and as always I’m so blown away by this incredible craft.

I almost can’t believe I’m about to say this, but I’ve been blogging for almost 15 years now. I’ve seen weekly roundups or “Friday Favorites” posts in every form on every topic, and I go back and forth on whether they’ve simply been done to death. But there’s something I’ve always loved about sharing something just because it brings the writer/curator joy, so that others may find joy in it too. And that’s actually what led so many of us DIY/craft/creative bloggers to create websites in the first place! So I’ll be sharing our favorite slow made and small batch finds every couple weeks going forward, and I’d love to hear what you think. Is it inspiring to you, or too old school to get behind? Lemme know!

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Artisan Home Decor for the Conscious Maximalist https://ecoclubofficial.com/artisan-home-decor-for-the-conscious-maximalist/ https://ecoclubofficial.com/artisan-home-decor-for-the-conscious-maximalist/#respond Wed, 16 Nov 2022 05:00:53 +0000 https://jenniferandrew.com/website_7d530b64/?p=5025 It’s been a minute since we shared a moodboard for the conscious maximalist, so in honor of cozy season we’ve got one featuring our favorite artisan home decor in natural and warm hues. Perfect for fall, but work just as lovely in any other season, so you know you’ll keep it on display for a […]

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It’s been a minute since we shared a moodboard for the conscious maximalist, so in honor of cozy season we’ve got one featuring our favorite artisan home decor in natural and warm hues. Perfect for fall, but work just as lovely in any other season, so you know you’ll keep it on display for a long time.

artisan conscious maximalist home decor

Molly M Framed Wall Art | Pineapple Wall Basket | Sage Block Print Pillow | Terracotta Pillow | Ruffle Pillow | Sunrise Stripe Towel | Wicker Bench | Yellow Glazed Pot | Round Rattan Mirror (no longer available, similar here) | Gabo Basket Tray | Peach Terracotta Rug | Knot Cushion in Blossom | Jute Doormat (no longer available) | Small Woven Planter | Frida Kahlo, Her Photos

Like much of the internet, I’ve become obsessed with the pairing of lush, sagey greens and oranges, corals, and pinks. It’s a bit deeper than I usually go in my own decorating, but I find myself gravitating to it more and more, so I think it’s beyond a trend for me at this point!

My primary muse for this collection is that WIP (Work in Progress) LA Rug and how it marries warm color with green and blush. The rug is made in Bhadohi, India using mid-weight, flat-weave cotton. It also comes in a runner style which I’ve been dreaming about for my tiny kitchen!

Find more artisan home decor brands in our sustainable directory.

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Introducing wallflower, a Boutique for Curated Gifts, Decor & Objects That Inspire https://ecoclubofficial.com/wallflower-small-shop-for-curated-gifts-and-decor/ https://ecoclubofficial.com/wallflower-small-shop-for-curated-gifts-and-decor/#respond Thu, 10 Nov 2022 05:52:59 +0000 https://jenniferandrew.com/website_7d530b64/?p=5335 Hello friends! We have a big announcement for you today! Introducing our very own shop, from the founders and editors of eco club and our design studio, wallflower. We launched this fall and have been since been hard at work on our holiday collection, so I haven’t gotten around to making the *official* introduction here on […]

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Hello friends! We have a big announcement for you today! Introducing our very own shop, from the founders and editors of eco club and our design studio, wallflower. We launched this fall and have been since been hard at work on our holiday collection, so I haven’t gotten around to making the *official* introduction here on the blog. So, it’s long overdue, but today we’re sharing photos from our first shoot, featuring so many of our favorite products. I’ll explain a bit more about this new endeavor and the products we’re sharing below!

blockprint napkins via small shop wallflower

Blockprint napkins

wallflower is a shop, blog, and creative studio celebrating makers + spaces + objects that inspire. Jenn and I met almost ten years ago as lifestyle bloggers with a love of crafting and collaborating with other makers. Fun fact, we both independently sold vintage finds and crochet accessories on Etsy back in college, before we knew each other. Eventually, we both became freelancers in our own fields and started collaborating on a project called The Blog Market. Later, we moved on to work together on eco club (and a bunch of other projects). We launched our studio in 2019, offering creative services for thoughtful brands and people, and finally, incorporated our ecommerce brand in fall 2022. Phew!

handmade porcelain plates / introducing small shop wallflower

Porcelain plates

pastel tablescape & woven coasters by shop wallflower

Pastel coasters (a personal fave!!)

color palette inspiration - pastels - shop small

introducing a new small shop, wallflower! cat charcuterie board on blockprint napkins

Espresso cup and saucer set and cat charcuterie board

We think of wallflower as the ultimate moodboard for us — and for you! As longtime bloggers and Pinterest-obsessed curators, we believe in surrounding ourselves with beauty and creativity. Of course, we also believe in caring for people and the planet, and in the power of small business and handmade, so our shop is really a celebration of artists around the world and the creativity we all have within.

colorful art prints from shop wallflower

Art prints from artists around the world

colorful table decor by wallflower

Striped table runner

colorblock candles and decor by wallflower

Pink taper candle holders

For our launch shoot, we collaborated, of course, with Charity, who helped us show off some of our favorite pieces in a small space setting.

green and pink table decor - introducing our new small shop!

pink and green decor

Woven colorblock coasters

colorful block print napkins with scallop edges - shop small with wallflower

mantel decor with book stack

Pastel woven vessel, another favorite of mine

coffee table design book stack

Design books

best coffee table books

Woven planter basket

We collaborated with a lot of different makers to bring wallflower together. As we grow, we plan to share lots more about these designers and why we love them (and why you should too). But for now, you might recognize Kazi, a fair trade home decor brand we’ve talked about here on eco lots of times. We selected some of their most vibrant pieces for our first collection.

colorful block print napkins

Blush plate

colorful pastel scallop napkins from our new small shop wallflower

Linen scallop napkins

We also worked with a small business in India to make custom sets of the napkins shown throughout, which features a cotton block print technique and these solid linen scalloped napkins. It was soooo fun to curate custom sets! They’re all handmade and the detail is incredible.

ceramic cat jewelry dishes - the cutest gift for cat lovers!

Floral ceramic cat ring dish and striped ceramic cat ring dish with yellow and lavender earrings

This collection of ceramic cats, which features ring dishes, earrings, and pins, is a collaboration between us and Romanian ceramicist and illustrator Livia Coloji of Gruni Ceramica. You can’t find these anywhere else, they are based on Livia’s original designs and updated with wallflower’s branding (and love of florals) in mind. I think this was my favorite product to receive in the mail and finally see in-person after all our communication online. They’re just so beautiful and will make such special gifts.

acetate hair accessories from small shop wallflower

Acetate hair accessories

acetate hair comb

cute quirky greeting cards from shop wallflower

A few greeting cards from our massive stationery collection

We also have a lifestyle collection and a self care line. We currently offer over 200 products by about 40 vendors from the US and all around the world. And we have so much more we want to share! But I’ll leave it at this intro for now, and follow up with more of our favorites soon. If you’re interested, please head to shop.studio-wallflower.com to see all of the above and more! Thanks for checking out our small shop and following along!

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These Colorful Etsy Rugs Will Transform Your Home into an Abstract Dreamscape https://ecoclubofficial.com/colorful-unique-etsy-rugs/ https://ecoclubofficial.com/colorful-unique-etsy-rugs/#comments Fri, 17 Jun 2022 05:00:08 +0000 https://jenniferandrew.com/website_7d530b64/?p=4900 It’s definitely no secret that one of my favorite ways to decorate is with creative handmade rugs. I’ve shared my favorite ethically made rugs, wrote a guide on where to find fair trade rugs, interviewed sustainable brands about their rug making process, and umm, lots more. I’ve gone through phases with the types of rugs […]

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It’s definitely no secret that one of my favorite ways to decorate is with creative handmade rugs. I’ve shared my favorite ethically made rugs, wrote a guide on where to find fair trade rugs, interviewed sustainable brands about their rug making process, and umm, lots more. I’ve gone through phases with the types of rugs I adore at the moment, from Mexican rugs to Indian rugs to the Moroccan styles I’m currently loving (love me a nice fluffy rug). And because I think they are the ultimate way to bring color into your home, each and every one of them is a feast for the eyes.

Ready for yet another rug tour? Here we go.

the best colorful handmade etsy rugs

Pink and green Beni Ourain Moroccan rug from Beldihand

Pink and green Beni Ourain Moroccan rug from Beldihand

Moroccan green checkered rug from Beldihand also available in a gorgeous pink! | etsy rugs

Moroccan green checkered rug from Beldihand also available in a gorgeous pink!

Pink cotton woven rug from IndianHomeTextiles

Pink cotton woven rug from IndianHomeTextiles

pink + green moroccan etsy rugs

Contemporary large pink, green, and blue Boujaad rug by Babakechrugs.

boho rugs

Wool shaggy dhurrie rug from rugsxboutique

yellow checkered rug - handmade etsy rugs

Checkered rugs are so trendy right now. I admit I was over it until I saw my favorite rug makers channel the vibe…

Moroccan berber style yellow checkered rug from IBABArugs

Handwoven boho area etsy rugs from Mumotoronto

Handwoven boho area rug from Mumotoronto

best etsy rugs - striped pink boho runner from berberology

Striped pink rug from Berberology

the prettiest pink rug! etsy rugs from loom + field

Striped pink boho shag rug from Loom + Field

Tiled moroccan rug by MuskanArtHouse

Modern tiled gold/orange rug by MuskanArtHouse

Handmade Azilal Runner Rug

Colorful handmade Azilal runner in pink, red, green, and peach by Floorandfabrics.

Custom neon beniourain etsy rug

Custom, artistic neon beniourain etsy rug by MWovenShop

Have you ever stepped foot inside a home featuring rugs as bold and beautiful as these? I honestly haven’t. When you’re used to scrolling through Instagram and Pinterest half the day, you start to think everyone has the most creative decor. The truth is, most people don’t even know it’s out there! So if you invest in something as special as these artistic rugs, you know you’ll delight anyone who enters your sweet home. 💓

Edited February 2023: I know many of the rugs above have sold out, so I’ve included more favorites via these Etsy shops and more below:

 

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Sustainable Home Decor for Lovers of Maximalist Design https://ecoclubofficial.com/sustainable-home-decor-for-lovers-of-maximalist-design/ https://ecoclubofficial.com/sustainable-home-decor-for-lovers-of-maximalist-design/#comments Tue, 10 May 2022 06:01:31 +0000 https://jenniferandrew.com/website_7d530b64/?p=4846 Love maximalist design but want to remain committed to becoming a more conscious consumer? Here are a few of my favorite sustainable design and decor destinations for achieving that maximalist, layered look with a relatively low footprint (versus mass-produced, corporate goods). Of course these shouldn’t be a replacement for secondhand sources and local boutiques in […]

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Love maximalist design but want to remain committed to becoming a more conscious consumer? Here are a few of my favorite sustainable design and decor destinations for achieving that maximalist, layered look with a relatively low footprint (versus mass-produced, corporate goods). Of course these shouldn’t be a replacement for secondhand sources and local boutiques in your community, but rather a supplement when you’re looking for that perfect piece to round out your collection. Peruse the shops below, then head over to this post to learn more about conscious maximalism in decor!

Palm Tree Pillowcases by Closely Knit Co

Palm pillowcases by CloselyKnitCo on Etsy

Etsy

Etsy is my go-to for home decor (and has been since I first discovered them in 2008!) because you can find both handmade and vintage on the platform, offering different ways to shop sustainably. Plus, while it’s always less taxing on the environment to shop locally than ship items from around the world, Etsy does offset its carbon emissions. If you love hunting for higher end vintage pieces, you can also try Chairish.

A few more of my favorite Etsy shops for handmade maximalist decor are Mrs Fishkin, MoiMili, SoLinen (which I mean, is perfect for minimalists too!), and Poppy & Honesty. For vintage, I love to check in on AnnabelMayVintage, SimplyChi, and LittleDogVintage for new-old finds.

Sustainable Maximalist Design & Decor - Trouva

Trouva

Have you shopped indie makers on Trouva before? It’s a discovery site and marketplace featuring goodies from boutiques in the UK and EU and globally. They offer carbon neutral worldwide shipping and even complimentary gift wrap, so they really make it easy to choose thoughtful gifts and decor. You can always search Google for your favorite vendors discovered on the platform, and see if any US based retailers offer them, if you are looking for something more local.

A few Trouva vendors that have caught my eye are Projektityyny, Casa Cubista, and Society of Wanderers. If you’re looking for a US based platform that works in a similar way, you might try Garmentory.

Sustainable Maximalist Design & Decor - Archive NY

Pillows by Archive New York

Maximalist Living room from St Frank

Wall baskets by Kazi as seen in @emmyraver‘s home in @archdigest

Made Trade

If you’re a die-hard maximalist that is obsessed with all things bold, it’s easy to discount Made Trade. They are an ethical marketplace featuring tons of my favorite sustainable brands, but I have to admit that as a brand they lean toward the more common minimalist angle when it comes to conscious consumerism. That said, they offer some amazing maximalist vendors like Zuahaza, Kazi, and Archive New York. Like Etsy and Trouva, it takes some digging, but you can certainly find the pops of color and pattern you’re looking for, sustainably!

Maximalist home decor from St Frank

St Frank textiles and decor

st frank

On the higher end of this roundup, maximalist design site St Frank is such a beautiful destination for artisan-made home goods with a sustainable focus. They have an extensive collection of ethically-sourced goods for every one of your home and lifestyle needs–from wallpaper to textiles to housewares and artwork. It’s truly a one-stop shop and the bold prints and patterns they feature are ripe for layering and adding texture to your home.

colorful home decor by archive new york - maximalist design brands

Another shot by our member and home decor shop we’ve featured, Archive New York.

our blog

We first started obsessing over conscious maximalism in this trend report. From there, we posted a few shopping roundups that are perfect for helping you curate a maximalist home with intention. Our favorites:

We also share them in our directory and in our boutique.

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