'Eco' Definition

What Qualifies as an "Eco-Provider" in the 2Modern Design Directory?

To qualify for the Eco Provider stamp within the Directory, you must provide:

  • Real case studies of projects with detailed eco/sustainable practices on your web site.
  • Proof of certification on your website from 3rd parties (e.g. LEED certification).
  • If you do not have a web site, you must upgrade to an "Enhanced" subscription and list your certification or case studies on your profile page.

What is Eco-Friendly Design?

2Modern supports designers and architects who are doing their part to make both beautiful, modern products, and taking care of the environment within their design and production process. Approximately 65% of 2Modern's featured designers are currently using sustainable practices in their furniture and product manufacturing. We encourage architects, interior designers, and landscape architects to use eco-friendly practices in the their design processes.

Is your company eco-friendly? Do you factor sustainability and green building practices into your core business?

2Modern recognizes all green certifications in building design, most notably is the USGBC's LEED certification. "The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating System is the nationally accepted benchmark for the design, construction, and operation of high performance green buildings." Consider LEED's five key areas of human and environmental health within building design when considering whether your business uses green practices - sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection, and indoor environmental quality.

2Modern's Design Directory applauds all of your efforts toward sustainable design. The easiest way to qualify as an 'Eco-Friendly' Architect, Interior Designer or Landscape Architect/Designer in the Directory is to have a reputable 3rd party certify your commitment to environmentally conscious design. Here are some links to guidelines to help companies determine if your company practices are sustainable or eco-friendly:
When advertising as an eco-friendly business, here are some examples of what we are looking for:
  1. Materials Selection
    1. Wood products: Are the wood products from regenerative, sustainable resources, Forest Stewardship Certified, or reclaimed (meaning re-used from a previous use such as railroad ties)?
    2. Metal/Plastic products: Are the metals or plastics used in the furniture from recycled or re-purposed metal or plastic? In theory, both metal and plastic materials are recyclable, but not always in practice.
  2. Low-toxicity design
    Is the space/product/furniture produced with low-toxicity parameters in mind - i.e., is there formaldehyde or toxic glue used in the process? Is there any noxious off-gassing in the final product? What types or glues, paints, stains, and dyes are used?

  3. Supply Chain considerations
    Where do the materials come from that are used in the design or construction process? Is the manufacturer local within the U.S. or overseas which increases the carbon trail. If overseas, what type of manufacturing processes are used and is the supplier involved in decisions regarding manufacturing methods and/or materials used?

  4. Lifecycle of product
    How does this product degrade after is has been used. Is it convertible to other uses? Can it be dismantled and recycled?

Other considerations for sustainable modern design would be:

  • Site planning
  • Energy Efficiency
  • Plumbing and Water Conservation
  • Insulation
  • Flooring
  • Lighting
  • Mechanical/HVAC
  • Paint
  • Furnishings
  • Appliances
  • Cleaning Products
  • Waste Management
Thank you for your participation in the 2Modern Design Directory and your commitment to sustainable design!