With environmental awareness being at an all-time high, more consumers are sourcing eco-friendly options for their homes.
Weaver Green makes gorgeous soft furnishings entirely from recycled plastic bottles. They are handwoven, ethically made and perfect for outdoor areas, as well as all areas inside the house including bathrooms.
While Weaver Green was initially started in the UK, in 2019 Rupert and Nikki Rowe were given an opportunity that they couldn’t ignore.
“Rupert and I first met whilst working on luxury super yachts based in the Mediterranean, during which time we saw first-hand the impact of plastic pollution on the marine environment,” explains Nikki.
“After leaving yachting and starting a business importing rustic antiques to Australia, we began searching for eco-friendly, ethical homewares to complement our unique pieces. Weaver Green ticked all the boxes: appealing to both their passion for the environment and eye for design.
“Two years on, overwhelmed by people’s response to the Weaver Green brand, and excited by the products’ suitability to the Australian lifestyle, Weaver Green Australia was born,” she enthuses.
Even though the couple had to close their antique business so they could completely focus on Weaver Green, there are no regrets.
“That was one of the hardest decisions to make―we have a passion for trawling antique markets in the UK and Europe for rustic and unique pieces for people’s homes. Ultimately though, the opportunity to work with Weaver Green was too good to pass up; not only are they eco-friendly but they are beautiful in their own right. People pick them up and fall in love with them long before they realise they are made from recycled plastic.
“Weaver Green textiles are game changers in the outdoor soft furnishing market,” says Nikki. “Until now the textiles made specifically for outdoor use have a shiny plastic appearance. Now you can get the rustic, soft feel of handwoven natural fibres, with the hard wearing and mould resistant features of a man made yarn, to create luxury outdoor spaces.
“They are of course just as practical for all areas inside the home, including bathrooms and kitchens, without compromising on looks and comfort.”
Rupert and Nikki have always been passionate about the environment so when starting a business in the retail market, they knew that their impact on the environment needed to be central to the business model.
“To be able to take a single use plastic bottle that was destined for our oceans and give it a long and useful life is a great feeling. To know that every step of the process has been thought about―from the use of non -toxic dyes and a closed water system in the dying process, to making sure the weavers are paid fairly and enjoy good working conditions―is even better.”
At the end of this month the French linen range will arrive at Weaver Green Australia, which includes everything from cushions and throws to aprons and tablecloths.
“There are so many exciting new developments in the pipeline. Lots of gorgeous new designs and we are experimenting with different fabric weights and applications. Watch this space!”
Weaver Green Australia’s 3 trends to watch in 2020:
1 We are seeing warm tones and earthy elements being used as people focus more on comfort and liveability. Sustainable materials have become popular as society becomes aware of the ecological and ethical implications of purchases.
2 Perfection in appearance is out and unique handmade products that have a story to tell are gaining popularity over fast furniture and decor.
3 In terms of colours schemes we will see natural colours such as rusty oranges, yellows, blues olives and pinks trending as well as pattern matching and layering throughout rooms.
