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Inside Family Handyman’s Sustainable Studio at Dodge Nature Center
Updated on Sep. 26, 2023
According to the World Commission on Environment and Development (WCED), the concept of sustainability can be broken down into three pillars: protection of the environment, social responsibility and economic growth. To truly have a project that is sustainable, these components must be kept top of mind—and this is exactly what the Family Handyman team did with the sustainable studio project.
The Dodge Nature Center spans four properties throughout Minnesota, with the main plot of land located in West St. Paul. This nature center has everything from miles of trails to chicken coops with tons in between. In keeping with the pillars of sustainability, Family Handyman decided this was the perfect place to erect the sustainable studio as a way to give back to the nature center that so many enjoy.
The plan? To build a multi-use studio using sustainable materials and products to show Family Handyman readers that sustainability can be both achievable and accessible. And better yet? This studio will give the Dodge Nature Center another place to utilize for economic growth through camps and activities, which means more environmental education for the masses.
Design Inspiration
Wondering how the Family Handyman team decided on the products and materials used in the project? Senior set stylist, Melissa Franco, explains the thought process.
“Working together with the Art Directors, we wanted the design of the sustainable studio to feel modern, yet comfortable and inviting,” Franco says. “The studio was built using sustainable materials, so we chose products for the interior that are eco-friendly and responsibly sourced. Our color palette of greens, natural wood and textured elements echo those found in nature and help create a relaxing and inspiring environment.”
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LL Flooring
Sustainability emphasis:
- Committed to responsible sourcing
- Cork is made from renewable, sustainably harvested bark of the cork oak tree
Cork Flooring
Versatile flooring that works great in any living space, cork is a long-lasting option that’s easy to install and even easier to take care of. A basic regime of sweeping or vacuuming will keep this cork floor from LL Flooring looking great for decades to come. Click installation is a breeze for DIYers of all skill levels.
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Afloral
Sustainability emphasis:
- Botanicals are grown, harvested and dried on sustainable flower farms
- Flower farm partners minimize chemical and herbicide use
- Shipped with plastic-free and recyclable packaging
Dried German Statice
Grown on a sustainable flower farm in Washington State, the dried German statice from Afloral is a natural compliment to a range of living room decor. Add texture and dimension with these dried botanicals, which come in bundles of six to 10 stems. The best part? No bundle will be exactly alike–Mother Nature is pretty cool that way!
Matte Ceramic Bud Vases
The matte ceramic vases from Afloral are the ideal addition to a neutral, boho space. This grouping of three vases has a slightly textured outside for visual interest, and each holds your favorite live, dried or fake blossoms or stems.
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Amazon
Sustainability emphasis:
- Made from biodegradable seagrass, which is an alternative to plastic
- Crafted by local artisans in Vietnam
Hanging Woven Wall Basket Set
Add visual interest to your wall with this hanging woven wall basket set from Resporox Elegance Your Way. Each set includes seven handmade baskets crafted from seagrass, which are woven by craftspeople in Vietnam. And better yet? Each set comes with all the supplies needed to hang these on your wall ASAP!
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Avocado
Sustainability emphasis:
- Table made of 100% upcycled wood
- Climate neutral-certified brand
- Brand reduces manufacturing emissions by using renewable energy
- Returned mattresses and pillows are given to shelters
- Brand uses non-toxic glues and finishes
- Member of the Sustainable Furnishing Council
Zero-Waste Entryway Table
The zero-waste entryway table from Avocado is crafted from upcycled wood and is available in walnut and blonde finishes. It’s produced in a Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)-certified woodshop, which means the places and ways Avocado gets the wood are sustainable. Plus, you’ll get a 10-year warranty on this product, making it a piece you’ll have for years to come. What could be better than helping the environment and getting a beautifully designed entryway table in one swoop?
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Burrow
Sustainability emphasis:
- Oeko-Tex-certified foam
Vesper Wood and Fabric Lounge Chair
Comfortable and stylish, the vesper wood and fabric lounge chair is a chic way to kick back and relax (and it’s available in three colors). You won’t spend multiple frustrating hours assembling this bad boy—it doesn’t require a single tool to get the job done!
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The Home Depot
Sustainability emphasis:
- Constructed of recycled glass
- Handmade by artisans
- Redesigned packaging to be more eco-friendly
- Company named WaterSense Partner of the Year eight times
French Home Recycled Glass Set
Whether you display this recycled glass set on the counter or tucked away in your pantry, you’re sure to love the green tint and eye-catching shape. Plus, you can feel good about your purchase–the glass is recycled and made in Valencia, Spain by artisans!
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L.L.Bean
Sustainability emphasis:
- Brand increased the use of Bluesign–verified materials within the last year
- Made from recycled polyester
- Brand eliminating the use of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances PFAs by 2024
Here’s everything you need to know about forever chemicals, aka PFAs.
Everyspace Recycled Waterhog Runner
After enjoying a long day of exploring the great outdoors, the last thing you want to do is track mud and grime all over your house. This recycled waterhog runner from L.L.Bean is easy to hose down or vacuum off when dirt threatens your clean floors. And did we mention it’s made of 90% recycled polyester?
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Office Designs
Sustainability emphasis:
- Made of eco-friendly/renewable resource Moso bamboo
Currant Writing Desk
This currant writing desk from Office Designs comes in three finishes and boasts a standout mid-century modern shape. Although it is on the pricier side, this desk is made of solid Moso bamboo and features self-closing drawers. It’s the little things, amirite?
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Out of the Woods
Sustainability emphasis:
- Member of 1% for the Planet, an organization that supports and protects forests
- Tote is FSC-certified
- Products are constructed from paper with a lighter carbon footprint
City Tote
The city tote from Out of the Woods is the ideal catch-all, and is available at a reasonable price. Besides being made of sustainable and vegan materials, this tote is also washable. Plus, the reinforced bottom allows it to stand up on its own, which means it’s handy for storing everything from charging cables to a stack of books.
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Ruggable
Sustainability emphasis:
- Eco-friendly and ethical manufacturing process
- Recycled materials are used whenever possible
- Partnered with One Tree Planted to plant 100,000 trees
Sana Sage Green Rug
Tired of your crusty (and dusty) area rug? It might be time to upgrade with the help of this Ruggable rug, which is available in two colors and various shapes and sizes. This rug has a washable cover, which makes cleanup a breeze. Plus, the flowy print screams “peaceful spa vibes,” don’t you think?
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Umbra
Sustainability emphasis:
- Recyclable packaging
- Brand includes recycled materials in 55% of plastic products
- Uses eco-friendly painting and powder coating
- Brand uses replenishable wood sources
Solis Wall Shelves
These wall shelves scream “modern,” thanks to their clean lines and minimalist design. Add your favorite picture frame, a vase with flowers and new books to make the look complete–the shelves can each hold between 10 to 15 pounds depending on size.
Hub Arched Mirror
Well suited for an entryway, this 24-inch-by-36-inch arched mirror brings soft curves and dispersed light across a room. The outer edge of the mirror is made from a black rubber material, which is both practical (hello, little kids!) and unique.
Picket Rail Hook
Crafted from eco-friendly pine wood, this picket rail hook from Umbra grips your favorite grocery totes, rain jackets and dog leashes while looking oh-so-cool doing it. Each hook holds up to 5 pounds, and the rack is available in three finishes: aged-walnut, black and natural.
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VivaTerra
Sustainability emphasis:
- Made using recycled or natural materials
- Company works with Fair Trade Certified
- Sustainable production methods
Hanging Kraft Paper Roll Stand
Make your weekly to-do list a whole lot cooler with the hanging paper roll stand from VivaTerra. A set of four vintage-inspired brass clips keep your list taunt, and the stand itself comes with one generously sized roll of kraft paper to get started.
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On Sale
Walmart
Sustainability emphasis:
- Walmart powers 46% of its operations with renewable energy
- Fan uses less energy than a traditional circular fan, but is still powerful and efficient
Vornado Vintage Air Circulator Fan
Want a pedestal fan with a vintage look (but sans the energy drain of older fans)? This pedestal fan from Vornado might be the product for the job. With three different speed settings, this fan adjusts to meet your cooling needs with ease (and the pivoting head doesn’t hurt, either). Plus, when you purchase this Vornado fan, you’ll enjoy a lengthy five-year warranty, which ensures customers purchase quality items made to last instead of multiple subpar items that end up in a landfill.
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West Elm
Sustainability emphasis:
- Part of Fair Trade Certified since 2014
- Only 100% sustainably sourced cotton is used
- Sources FSC‑certified, recycled and upcycled materials
- Supports local artisans and craftspeople
Modern Rattan Lidded Baskets
Functional, stylish and ethically produced? Say less. These modern, round weave baskets from West Elm are constructed in Vietnam by skilled artisans (rather than a machine), so each order is handmade. They can be used as storage or to add texture and interest to your space–or both!
Asymmetry Ceramic Table Lamp
Inspired by Japanese pottery, this ceramic table lamp has an asymmetric ceramic base and is available in four natural colors. Each lamp comes with a textured linen shade, which helps diffuse light around your space.
