When I first began my career as an industrial designer, I specialized in exhibit design for trade shows and museums. It was an exciting and dynamic field, but I was shocked to learn that the exhibit industry is the second-largest producer of waste, trailing only the construction industry. Due to the temporary nature of exhibitions, the industry generates an astounding 600,000 tons of waste annually!

This discovery challenged how I approached design. I made a commitment to fully understand every material I use and to design in ways that reduce waste and prioritize sustainability.

Today, I focus on working with responsibly sourced wood materials. This choice goes beyond aesthetics—though I do love the versatility, warmth, and beauty that wood provides. Using wood helps to lower the carbon footprint of the play spaces and objects I create. For example, birch plywood, the gold standard for children’s play furniture, emits only 0.45 kg of CO₂ per kg during production—a fraction of the emissions compared to steel or plastic.

By designing with wood, I’m not just making things that last—I’m helping my clients create play spaces that are better for the planet. And that’s something I’m deeply proud of.

– Nathan

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