Consumer culture imperils our future. We’ve all heard of the horrifying effects of the fast fashion industry—from toxic working conditions to literal tons of clothing thrown away each year. But truthfully? The home and interiors world isn’t much better. Influencers promote trendy, cheaply made furnishings that look great on Instagram and TikTok but end up in the trash soon after. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, and as reported in The New York Times, Americans discard more than 12 million tons of furniture annually, crowding landfills with mountains of solid waste that have grown 450 percent since 1960. There’s got to be a better, greener way to design.

As the gatekeepers of almost every single item that crosses their client’s threshold, interior designers are responsible in part for a home’s environmental footprint. In this workshop, esteemed designer Patrick Ediger will detail The Rule of Thirds: his systematic approach to sustainability. By providing the tools necessary for anyone to implement eco-conscious practices in their own business, this course promises to make a positive impact on both local communities and the larger world through thoughtfully considered design choices. 

In this class, attendees will learn:
- The Rule of Thirds: a way to balance antique, repurposed, and locally and sustainably made furnishings in each design project
- How to source each category in The Rule of Thirds to find stylish pieces minus the environmental footprint of fast furniture
- Factors to consider when buying new, including materials used, chemicals offset, and compensation and working conditions of the laborers who made the product
- The benefits of sourcing locally, from reduced shipping costs and emissions to increased support for small businesses and independent artisans
- A review process and sustainable rating system to evaluate each project, with the goal of continually improving 

After this class, attendees will have:
- A process for implementing sustainable practices within their own design firm
- Resources to continue education on sustainable design without the requirement of accreditation or special certification
- The tools and knowledge needed to educate their teams and their clients about sustainable design behaviors

Additional Information:
This workshop is conducted through Zoom webinar. All you need to join is reliable internet access and computer speakers with good volume.

BOH Insiders get unlimited free LAUNCH classes!
Click here to learn more. If you are already a BOH Insider member and are looking to take this class, please register through your Benefits Portal. Questions? Email membership@businessofhome.com.