Stuart Hough, Sunnyside Trading Co.

You may have seen the recent article from the New York Times about “fast furniture.” Similar to the concept of “fast fashion,” this typology of furniture is characterized by the following: it is easy to get; easy to get rid of; typically mass-produced; and relatively inexpensive.

Typically, some assembly is often required on the part of the buyer, or a handy friend or family member.  On the one hand, fast furniture enables the acquisition of household items at an affordable price point. On the other hand, “fast furniture” tends to be made from cheap, non-biogradeable materials.

While fast furniture might work as a temporary fix, or to fill a space, it isn’t often durable.  Most ends up being discarded; sometimes not long after being bought. This can be not only because of product failure, but because of the minimal investment made. The cycle of buy, toss, and replace has significant negative impacts, including upon our environment.

The New York Times article also references several sustainability-focused companies that have popped up in the furniture industry as an alternative. This is a responsible path for the development of new products, to be sure. Sustainability is not a buzzword at Sunnyside, it’s core to what we do, and how we do it.

We believe that we must do everything we can to take care of each other and our planet. We prioritize sustainability in our decision-making and business practices. We strive to be an animal product- and cruelty-free business, ensuring that all of our new products are both sourced and made ethically.

The word “sustainability” presumes that resources are finite. Therefore, sustainable practices should involve the thoughtful use of existing resources with an eye toward the impacts we have on our world for future generations. To that end, most of the furniture at Sunnyside is either wholly antique, or has been constructed from reclaimed wood or other reused materials. Preserving antique furniture and goods is central to our sustainability practices.

In addition to the positive impact on our ecosystem, there are myriad other benefits. To start with, Sunnyside furniture lasts. In fact, much of our furniture has literally existed for centuries! And each piece is completely unique, with its own history to tell.

Although it may mean waiting a little longer to make just the right purchase, we encourage everyone, and especially individuals who are just beginning to curate their homes, to opt for higher-quality, sustainably-produced or -preserved, “slow furniture” that has stayed functional, beautiful, and valuable for several lifetimes.

Sunnyside works directly with antique dealers; artisans; and manufacturers from the old Silk Road, artfully and carefully selecting all our goods.

It is our hope that our customers will feel good knowing that they are bringing a piece into their home that has stood the test of time.

To take a closer look at this issue’s featured section, bookcases, click here.