Retailer Arhaus Furniture Introduces Organic Fabrics

Furniture World Magazine

Cleveland-based lifestyle retailer Arhaus Furniture has announced it will begin using organic cotton fabrics in several furniture lines that will debut in stores in January '08. "The addition of organic cotton – 60 different styles in all – to our furniture lines is just another step we've taken to help protect the earth's valuable resources,” says Gary Babcock, vice president of merchandising and design. Arhaus has always been committed to the environment, and the retailer continues to put its words into action by offering items that come from sustainable and renewable resources. "Using organic fabrics is just another way to strengthen our commitment, as well as provide customers with beautiful, unique items they can't find anywhere else,” Babcock adds. What makes it organic? Babcock notes that there are strict standards when it comes to labeling an item organic, perhaps one of the reasons Arhaus is the only retailer to carry such an extensive line of organic fabrics. "For fiber to be considered organic, it must be raised and harvested in accordance with standards of one or more of the certification companies in either the United States or abroad,” he says. Arhaus organic fabrics are made from 100 percent certified organic cotton, which means no pesticides or synthetic fertilizers are used during the growing process. "Customers can feel good about buying fabrics that won't bring additional chemicals and allergens into their homes,” Babcock states. Dyed with care After being processed, all of the organic cotton yarns are dyed by a certified dyer. Then, they are pre-washed with a natural bio-solvent and are also machine washable – definitely a plus for those who dread lugging items to the dry cleaners. Babcock says the fabrics are pre-washed before heading to the stores in order to "provide a soft hand and eliminate wrinkling.” Taken from nature The inspiration for each of the fabrics came from, where else, but the earth itself. "We hand selected each pattern based on its relation to nature,” says Babcock. "For instance, you can see patterns that mimic the coolness of water, the freshness of a blue sky, and the soft hues of sand.” Existing Arhaus items from several collections have been retrofitted with the new organic fabrics, including the Donatella arm chair, which features a soft ivory fabric with a fresh earthy floral pattern that includes butterflies. Slipcovers are also available for those who wish to change out the designs on sectional sofas and other slipcovered Arhaus furniture. "We have a slipcover specifically for the Montega sofa that has a sand-colored base with a crisp white fleur de lis pattern overlay,” Babcock says. "With 60 patterns to choose from, customers will have no problem finding a pattern that fits in with their tastes and existing décor.” Also available is the Nottingham organic swivel chair with pleated skirt, the American Beauty organic chair and ottoman featuring a beautiful green leafy print, and the eco-friendly Nicole and Jadin accent chairs, fitted in fresh, fabulous fabric woven from 100% organic cotton. In addition, natural Hemp rugs are also being introduced January 2008. About Arhaus Furniture: Journey through an Arhaus store and discover an intriguing atmosphere filled with one-of-a-kind handcrafted home furnishings that you won't find anywhere else. From aged Chinese wedding cabinets to hand-hammered copper dining tables, the product selection is reflective of our travels. We journey near and far to experience the culture, authentic design of antiques and classic styles, and bring them to you. Since 1986, we've partnered with skilled artisans to craft our many exclusive collections, which are complemented by our timeless upholstered (slipcovered, leather and custom-ordered), indoor and outdoor dining, and bedroom pieces. Made of the world's finest materials, products are then presented in a theater-type setting using interesting architectural elements embellished with hand-painted murals and fresh botanicals at all of our store locations. More than 450 employees serve customers in 30 Arhaus locations across the country. Corporate headquarters are located in Cleveland, OH. For more information, call 1-866-4ARHAUS or visit us at: www.arhaus.com.