The hidden cost of furniture: How Design Preowned is preserving our forests

Wood has long been revered for its natural elegance and enduring appeal, making it a staple in high-end furniture design. Yet, this very allure conceals a sobering truth: the global appetite for wood-based products, including furnishings, contributes to the loss of nearly 10 million hectares of forest each year. This devastation not only strips the Earth of its green lungs but also disrupts ecosystems, displaces wildlife, and releases vast amounts of carbon dioxide, exacerbating climate change. In the face of this ecological crisis, the furniture industry stands at a crossroads, challenged to innovate or continue on a path of destruction.

We’re honored to join forces with Design Preowned, a brand that preserves the past while thoughtfully building the future.

Design Preowned is a Scandinavian company that bridges the past and future with its sustainable vision. Founded by Lisbeth Gubi in 2023, Design Preowned builds upon a legacy that began in 1976 with the creation of Gubi. The brand masterfully intertwines a deep respect for heritage with an unwavering commitment to sustainability, setting an ambitious goal of 98% CO2 neutrality in every facet of production. Through the meticulous refurbishment and upcycling of pre-owned furniture, Design Preowned offers a lavish yet eco-conscious alternative that actively contributes to forest preservation and reduces the environmental footprint associated with new furniture production.

This exciting collaboration has given us the opportunity to bring a modern touch to their beautifully restored furniture. PixelPai’s digital touchpoints, like QR codes, will allow customers to explore the abundant history and care behind each piece, deepening the connection between the item and its new home.

Discover furniture that’s as gentle on the planet as it is on the eye. 

A novel approach to sustainable living

Design Preowned’s mission is simple and compelling: to provide a guilt-free, CO2-neutral way to enjoy fine design while protecting the environment. Rather than just refurbishing old pieces, the company’s approach extends the life of raw materials, minimizing waste, and contributing to a circular economy where resources are used and reused thoughtfully. Take, for example, a mid-century Danish armchair that was once destined for a landfill. After careful restoration- replacing damaged wood with reclaimed materials and applying eco-friendly finishes- this chair reclaims its past splendor without the burden of environmental cost.

The values that shape every creation

At the heart of Design Preowned’s ethos is an unwavering reverence for the natural world and the enduring tradition of Danish craftsmanship. This devotion shines through in their open commitment to sustainability, where every step in the restoration process is imbued with care and consideration. From the use of water-based varnishes to the selection of adhesives free from harmful chemicals, each choice is made with the environment in mind, ensuring a minimal ecological footprint and a safer home for all.  Each handcrafted piece reflects traditional craftsmanship and modern sustainability practices, with detailed information about its origin and environmental impact. The result is furniture that upholds the aesthetic and quality of Danish design while being as gentle on the planet as it is beautiful.

From collection to delivery: The unique restoration process

Every piece of furniture reborn at Design Preowned begins with a discerning search for potential. Carefully sourced from diverse locations, each item is selected for its promise of a second life. Design Preowned ensures that each restored piece tells a story of responsibility and ecological mindfulness, reflecting the company’s dedication to environmental stewardship.

Once selected, the restoration process begins with thoughtful curation of cherished, pre-owned furniture, which is then lovingly restored using eco-friendly materials and practices, including:

• Probiotic washing: A gentle, environmentally friendly wash that cleans without harming the materials.
• Non-toxic adhesives and oils: Safe for both the environment and indoor air quality.
• Upholstery: By highly skilled craftsmen using coconut fiber cushioning and 100% CO2-neutral leather.
• Detailed repairs: Addressing structural issues and reinforcing joints to boost longevity.

This process also includes repairing structural damage, reinforcing joints, and applying durable, sustainable finishes that enhance the longevity of each item. Each piece is returned to its former glory, often emerging even better than before. Through these efforts, Design Preowned envisions a future where furniture design harmonizes with ecological sustainability, with each creation standing as a testament to enduring beauty and environmental responsibility.

Where artistry meets digital brilliance

Design Preowned fuses traditional craftsmanship with technology to further elevate its commitment to sustainability. Through a refined digital inventory, materials are curated with care, turning potential waste into purposeful beauty. Each piece of wood and fabric is selected with intention, ensuring that nothing is lost to excess. The use of PixelPai chips or QR codes introduces a modern touch, inviting customers to explore the story behind each creation. This blend of tradition and innovation deepens the connection between the furniture and its new home, celebrating the art of restoration and the bond it forges.

Craftsmanship and customization that reflect a legacy

Purchasing furniture is an investment that extends beyond the home and into a chosen lifestyle. And luckily, the dedication to craftsmanship at Design Preowned is unmistakable. Local artisans play a central role in the restoration process, bringing their expertise and passion to each piece. The result is furniture that is not only original but also a reflection of the care and attention to detail that went into its creation. This level of craftsmanship guarantees that each piece is a work of art that carries with it a rich narrative of sustainability.

Customization options further enhance the appeal of Design Preowned’s offerings. Customers have the opportunity to personalize chairs with eco-labeled fabrics and leathers, allowing them to create bespoke pieces that perfectly align with their style and values. Through personalization customers have the power to choose sustainability without sacrificing luxury or comfort.

A timeless investment in our planet’s future

Design Preowned’s elegant pieces embody the future of ethical, environmentally conscious living. As the challenges of environmental degradation and climate change intensify, the choices we make in our daily lives have never been more important. By embracing refurbished furniture, we actively reduce landfill waste, support forest preservation, and contribute to a circular economy that values resources and minimizes waste. Choosing Design Preowned reflects your values and supports a responsible, sustainable way of life.