❋Design
❋Design
Authentic Restoration Meets Circular Economy Principles at Cultivated
In a world increasingly conscious of the true value of craftsmanship in the sustainability conversation, Cultivated stands as a beacon within Australia’s design landscape. This pioneering brand has redefined furniture refurbishment, blending heritage, authenticity, and environmental responsibility into a seamless narrative.
Founded in 2013 as a product stewardship initiative for Cult Design, Cultivated’s journey has been driven by a steadfast commitment to addressing the staggering waste of furniture by partnering with local manufacturers and artisans to restore, reinvigorate, or recycle authentic furniture and lighting, thus promoting a sustainable circular economy. Instead of discarding items like sofas, dining tables, and coffee tables—amounting to millions annually—the program offers an eco-friendly alternative that preserves the craftsmanship and integrity of original furniture and lighting designs. This initiative not only helps reduce environmental impact but also celebrates authentic, thoughtfully made furniture, fostering a culture of reuse and sustainability in the furniture industry.
Cultivated’s mission is simple yet profound, rooted in the belief that every piece of authentic furniture has a story, lending to a responsibility to keep that story alive for generations to come, thereby contributing to a more sustainable culture. What began as a service offering restoration and buy-back programs for Cult Design clients has blossomed into a standalone brand that works with authentic, high-quality products from a diverse array of designers and brands.
At its core, Cultivated champions the philosophy that sustainability isn’t just an environmental imperative but a celebration of craftsmanship and legacy. The company’s approach involves meticulous refurbishment, utilising reclaimed timber, textiles, and metals that are often salvaged from historic buildings and long-forgotten warehouses. Its purpose has never been solely about fixing furniture, but rather about restoring history, preserving artistry, and reducing waste. Every chair, table, or armchair worked on is a testament to timeless design and responsible stewardship.
One of the most compelling facets of Cultivated’s mission is its dedication to authentic design. In a market flooded with reproductions and copies, the company carefully navigates the complex terrain of identifying genuine pieces. Authenticity is the north star around which everything else orbits to ensure that the furniture restored is the real deal—whether it’s a vintage piece, a designer original, or an iconic vintage find. It’s about honouring the craft and the creator.
Beyond refurbishment, Cultivated is actively engaged in industry advocacy, conducting comprehensive research into furniture waste and promoting circular economy practices. Their findings on Australian furniture waste shed light on disposal habits and transform perceptions around second-hand furniture. Slowly, it is changing the narrative, advocating for the notion that furniture shouldn’t be disposable. It should be cherished, maintained, and given new life. The introduction of digital product passports is part of that effort—tracking each piece’s journey and environmental impact, from restoration to resale.
In an era where fast fashion and disposable furniture prevail, Cultivated offers an elegant reminder that true style endures through responsible choices. Design is timeless, and so should our approach to it be. The philosophy behind refurbishing furniture extends to the restoration of a legacy, and Cultivated’s work exemplifies a future where sustainability and style go hand in hand, proving that with care, craftsmanship, and consciousness, we can create a more beautiful, sustainable world—one piece of furniture at a time.
