Bark Up the Right Tree
1. Jelinek Cork Fabric Parsons Chair This Parsons chair upholstered in Jelinek Cork Company’s Utopia Dark cork fabric is a definite conversation piece. Cork fabric — also called cork leather — is produced from thin cork shavings obtained directly from the bark of the cork oak tree. The Ontario establishment, founded in 1855 and one of the oldest continually active cork companies in the world, offers custom orders with 15 other fabulous cork fabrics to choose from. Jelinek also sells fabric by the bolt, as well as flooring, wall tiles and more. $270; www.jelinek.com
2. SOLE Casual Flip The Casual Flip from SOLE is the ideal companion for any activity, especially if you’re looking for eco-friendly and sustainable footwear that doesn’t slouch on comfort. The anatomically shaped mid-sole and foot bed contains 35 percent cork by volume, while the strap is made of 50 percent hemp and 50 percent recycled polyester. Available in men’s and women’s styles and in a variety of colors. Women’s Atlas White shown above. $70; www.yoursole.com
3. Habitus Cork Mosaic Tile Give your house a natural finish with Habitus Cork Mosaic Tile. Recycled from the wine stopper industry in Spain and Portugal, this sustainable surface is resilient, anti-allergenic, anti-static, slip-resistant, offers acoustical insulation and more. Chips are fashioned by hand on sheets and installed to walls and floors using mortar and finishing grout. It can be stained colors and finishes, using typical products available on the market. Available in 1-inch and 1.375-inch diameters. $28 (12- x 24-inch sheet), $14 (per square foot); www.habitusnyc.com
4. Kork iPad Cover Looking for a blend of technology and nature? Look no further than Kork by A Produkt. Made from 100 percent natural recycled cork, Kork is a lightweight molded shell that holds the iPad in place. It’s ergonomically designed to fit perfectly in your hand, with a natural grip and feel. While aesthetically appealing, the design is also utilitarian with easy access to all buttons and inputs — even its walls are angled to project the sound towards the user. $72; www.aprodukt.com
5. Cortiça Chaise Lounge Created by Brooklyn designer Daniel Michalik, Cortiça is a full-size lounger made of reclaimed cork. It’s lightweight, naturally waterproof — not to mention buoyant — and impervious to rot and mold. The balanced form, along with the pliability of the material allows the user to rock gently from side to side with a great degree of stability. The result is a sensation of floating, weightless yet totally supported. Made to order and ships within six to eight weeks. $4,800; www.branchhome.com
6. Urbane Village Doctor’s Bag While the sight of a doctor can make some people turn green, this doctor’s bag by Peasants & Travelers screams “green” with eco-friendly natural cork fabric. Perfect for many professionals — not just MDs — it is the optimal size for quick business trips with a strap that offers options on how to carry. The genuine leather trim and nickel finish hardware convey an effortless luxury, while the men’s dress shirt lining offers a touch of softness and stylish sophistication. Also available in waxed cotton and white canvas. $199 (sale price); www.peasantsandtravelers.com
