What is the Koskela Project?
Koskela is a renowned furniture brand in Australia, specialising in sustainable designer furniture that truly stands out. Crafted in Australia by local manufacturers and designed entirely in-house, each piece is created with a people and planet-friendly ethos. The project focuses on using high-quality, locally sourced materials and minimising waste, so that every piece contributes to reducing environmental impact. With bold targets like becoming fully circular by 2027, Koskela mixes tradition with innovation… This initiative not only celebrates outstanding craftsmanship but also embodies the belief that design can drive meaningful social change, making it a true trailblazer in the furniture industry.
Main Benefit
- B Corp Score of 96.2 – a testament to exceptional sustainability and accountability.
- $1.6 million returned to First Nations communities through impactful social projects.
- First Australian furniture & lighting company to be granted B Corp certification in 2017.
- Commitment to total circularity by 2027 and absolute-zero emissions by 2035.
- High-quality, locally-sourced materials that nurture both creative design and ethical manufacturing.
Sustainable Manufacturing Process
Koskela furniture is proudly crafted in Australia by skilled local manufacturers, ensuring each product is created with meticulous attention to quality and sustainability. Designed in-house, every piece reflects the brand’s unwavering commitment to minimizing waste and using only high-quality, locally sourced materials. This sustainable manufacturing process not only reduces environmental impact but also showcases innovation by aiming for a fully circular model by 2027. The approach is refreshingly practical – a blend of traditional craftsmanship and forward-thinking production methods, ensuring that products remain both durable and ecologically responsible…
Cultural Celebration
At the heart of the Koskela project lies a deep respect for Australia’s unique Indigenous culture. The brand has a firm belief in celebrating the rich traditions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. This cultural celebration is evident in social impact projects that have already returned $1.6 million to First Nations communities. Passion, heritage, and modern design converge here to honor Indigenous artistry and leadership. The project’s dedication to cultural recognition goes beyond aesthetics; it is a vibrant commitment that weaves together social impact, respect for tradition, and innovative design.
Innovative Design Approach
Designing for Good is the core purpose of Koskela – a philosophy that proves profits and ethics can indeed go hand-in-hand. Every item, whether viewed as furniture or homewares, is the result of a unique design process that blends functionality with social purpose. Inspired in part by the creative dynamics of art galleries and Indigenous design facilitators, the approach is both dynamic and breakthrough. Each product carries forward the belief that great design can effect social change, using a mixture of contemporary aesthetics and traditional influences that create a truly engaging, conversation-starting experience… The approach is casual yet deliberate, reflecting a modern vibe that resonates with a wide audience.
Project Impact
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – emphasizing thoughtful use of resources.
- SDG 13: Climate Action – striving for absolute-zero emissions by 2035.
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – illustrating strong community and industry collaborations.
- SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities – evident in the commitment to supporting First Nations communities.
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – through local manufacturing and sustainable design practices.
Future Outlook
Looking ahead, Koskela continues to shape the future of sustainable design with a bold vision and clear targets. With initiatives aimed at total circularity by 2027 and a promise of absolute-zero emissions by 2035, the brand is setting a new standard in ethical manufacturing within the furniture industry. The project underscores that high-quality design and environmental responsibility can coexist harmoniously. It also marks an ongoing journey of innovation by seamlessly merging Indigenous culture and contemporary style – a process that inspires the industry and consumers alike… The future for Koskela is not only about creating lasting, beautiful homewares but also about paving the way for responsible production practices that benefit people, the planet, and diverse cultural legacies.
