Purposeful Innovations
Author Dan Harfield
It’s so inspiring to see incredible initiatives and purposeful innovations working to deliver for people and the planet. From tackling textile waste to transforming empty high-street spaces, these projects show the true potential of the design community.
Here’s a few that have caught my eye this month.
Let’s dive in…
Patch
We’ve previously touched on the importance and opportunity of our high-streets in studio projects, and Patch is a prime example. Breaking free from the traditional ‘WeWork’ model, Patch revitalises empty spaces in our neighbourhoods and transforms them into communal workspaces. Together with Ali Hansen Studio, they’ve created a brand identity that resonates with our evolving work culture.
They call it the ‘Work Near Home’ era, and it’s based on our belief that spending more time in our local community is key to promoting happier societies and healthier high streets.
The 93% Club
Let’s face it: despite progress, the privately educated continue to dominate the top jobs in the UK’s leading professions. Fortunately, the 93% Club is working to change that. Founded by Sophie Pender, The 93% Club aims to provide training and networking opportunities to state educated students and provide support to young people at the early stages of their career. Initiatives like this prove that we must continue to fight against a structure that preserves old ideas and no longer serves society.
Telo Pickup
Telo has partnered with Yves Béhar to create a super compact electric pickup. Redefining the truck experience, TELO combines the versatility of regular pickups with Tesla-like range and efficiency, all in the footprint of a MINI Cooper. Since it’s roughly the same size as the modern mini, the Telo plays on retro adverts featuring ‘just how much you can fit into a compact car’, with great effect!
United Repair Centre
United Repair Centre is on a mission to make clothing repair the new cool – and I’m 100% behind them. They’ve teamed up with trusted brands that celebrate repair. If you aren’t the best with a needle and thread, just reach out to the brand and they’ll arrange shipping to the United Repair Centre who will complete the work and get it back to you. A simple yet powerful model that holds huge potential in tackling #textilewaste and creating a sustainable, more circular future.
If any of these purposeful innovations resonate with you, share this on.
+ For more design inspiration, browse our portfolio.