Ecotourism - Just another fashionable trend?

So we have discussed ideas relating to architecture, fashion design, furniture design and the alike, but what about having a holiday and staying somewhere which has considered all aspects of nature, the environment and sustainability? It is known as ecotourism here in Australia and although I have not heard much about this idea, it does seem like a fashionable trend at the present time with a lot of different businesses catching on.

There is an abundant amount of places listed on this website:
http://www.ecotourism.org.au

The accommodation is designed around living in harmony with the environment. The various amounts of accommodation employs the latest technologies available to sustainable design including the use of rain water tanks, solar power, self composting waste treatment, and are recognised for their low environmental impact approach.

While I do think this is a great idea, I do have to ask the question of, are we going through another fashionable trend or will it succeed in the future for years to come?

Sustainable design: gone to the dogs.

Founded by dog lover and landscape architect Stephanie Rubin California based Greenrrroof is a company that produces something rather unique, sustainable houses for Dogs and birds.





They offer a number of standard as well as 'couture' designs and will custom design a house to the client's tastes and needs. These miniature pieces of architecture are lovingly hand crafted and allot of effort is exerted to ensure the homes and the safest option available for it’s occupant. They use red ceder wood that is naturally rot resistant even without treatment, recycled woods, bees wax water proofing and non-VOC paints and sealants.

An important feature of the Greenrrroof designs is the planted roof based off green roof systems used in houses. This feature provides a natural from of insulation and also filters rainwater channeling it though pipes to provide a source of water for the inhabitant.


This company is a great example of the beauty and quality that is present when real passion inspires design.

greenrrroof home
Residential Green Roof Systems
An Introduction to Indoor Air Quality, VOC's

The Ultimate Little Black Dress…

The little black dress is one of the most timeless pieces of fashion a girl can have.

The little black dress by The Uniform Project was designed by Eliza Starbuck and is said to be the most sustainable dress on the market.

What makes this dress so special? The LBD (little black dress) can be worn a staggering 365 different ways. This LBD is reversible and multi purpose. The company says the “…LBD is more than mere fabic and thread, it is a symbol of individuality and responsible living.”

With this dress you have a different look for every day of the year, and if it’s as amazing as the company claims, this means you should be able to move with the changing trends and seasons. Sheena Matheiken put this to the test, wearing the dress for an entire year with 365 different looks; she showed that with the right accessories you could pull it off.

This dress is made to order meaning less waste in the production. The dress can also be women of any age; kids to grandparents would feel comfortable in this dress.