Using leftover lumber for environmentally friendly accessories

Standard Works in involved in designing store interiors and exhibition booths in Amagasaki. In 2009, company head Hisano began merchandising environmentally friendly accessories for everyday living under the “Urban Ole Echopark” label. This DIY kit uses lumber leftover from manufacturing original products created for the label. Presently, the lineup is comprised of three varieties of cutlery, birdhouses, and more. Carving out one’s desired cutlery from the wood, and assembling and painting the birdhouses is pleasant and absorbing work.

Not only are products such as the Personal Spoon Kit environmentally friendly, they are made in collaboration with a facility that employs people with disabilities. “Though communication may be difficult, the center does a wonderful job, showing intense concentration and care, and are able to create 100 spoons in 2-3 days. It’s not simply a matter of supporting these individuals, it’s our ability to rely on the degree of quality and appeal of the products that makes this collaboration so important. I really respect Sunface, the NPO facilitating this work, who has worked to connect creators with the work facility,” says Hisano. Standard Works also intends to work with the center on a butter knife and chopstick kit as well. The DIY kits help give adults and kids experience the joy of creation and usability, deepening their appreciation for crafted goods. Susano’s workshop is creating a new standard for its generation, reflecting a desire to become a fixture in the field, without being driven by fads.