BRING BACK THE CORK!
Is there any material more sustainable than cork?
Sure, using sustainably grown wood is good but don’t be fooled into thinking it’s the world’s answer to circularity. Cork is produced by stripping just the bark off the cork oak tree – cork production allows the tree to remain standing, while trees are cut down in their prime for wood.
A renewable resource.
The cork bark naturally regenerates and can be re-harvested over its lifespan of about 200 years. They are amazing ‘carbon-fighters’ absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere helping in the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating climate change.
Minimal environmental impact.
The production of cork involves low energy consumption. Harvesting is typically done by hand without the use of heavy machinery, reducing the carbon footprint associated with its extraction.
Biodiversity preservation.
The Cork oak forests are home to a unique and diverse ecosystem, supporting various plant and animal species. To preserve these valuable habitats is to utilise cork so that the demand for cork oak forests is sustained.
Recyclable & biodegradable.
Cork can be ground down and used in the production of other cork products or recycled into composite materials. Cork as a natural material, if left to biodegrade will break down without releasing harmful substances into the environment.
A sustainable industry.
The cork industry has been actively promoting sustainable practices and responsible management of cork oak forests. Certification schemes, such as the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) and Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC), ensure the proper management of cork oak forests, including environmental, social, and economic considerations.
Before, now, & into the future.
Cork flooring gained popularity during the late 1800s and early 1900s, especially in commercial buildings like libraries, schools, and government offices due to its durability, acoustic properties, and comfort underfoot.
Another rise in popularity came in the 1950s and 1960s – this time in residential homes, particularly in kitchens and bathrooms. Then it declined, partly due to other options like carpet, vinyl and hardwood.
In recent years however, due to increased interest in sustainable, and eco-friendly materials, cork has had a resurgence and it’s not just in flooring.
Gymnastic Training Center of Guimarães
The sustainability-led Gymnastic Training Center of Guimarães, Portugal by architects Pitagoras Group wrapped cork around its façade achieving an A++ certification with the Lider A system, a recognition which is rare in sustainability, not only in Portugal but all around the world.
Tom Dixon.
In 2020, Tom Dixon, known for 'strongly expressed materiality', used this 'wonder' material and took full advantage of its elasticity, sound absorption and water proof nature by designing this sculptural furniture collection, made entirely from cork, which is charred to give it a rich, deep brown colour, and aptly named 'Cork'.
EXPLORE CORK BY TOM DIXON
Jasper Morrison.
In 2019, at Kasmin's gallery in New York, Jasper Morrison had his first solo exhibition - a complete series of furniture made in cork. Not any cork, but 'cork-block' a waste material from making wine bottle stoppers.
Years earlier in 2004, Jasper's first cork creations, a collection of stools for the Vitra Home collection named Cork Family, highlighted the pleasing tactility and lightweight nature of cork. At that time Morrison also made a low chair, which has been sitting in his London apartment often noticing how well the material and shape were for the atmosphere of the room. This led him to do more in this zero-waste material, cork.
"... It's a great material for both its visual and tactile qualities, but above all, I love what it does for the atmosphere of interiors." says Morrison.
EXPLORE CORK FAMILY BY JASPER MORRISON FOR VITRA
