Cork is making its way into the world of home decor. Spend any amount of time on a popular site like Pinterest, and you’ll discover mountains of DIY cork projects for the home. But cork home decor isn’t just for the DIYers. Decorating with cork is growing in popularity due to its earth-friendly qualities, versatility, and timeless appeal. Wondering how to introduce cork into your home decor line? Here’s why consumers are loving this new trend as well as some of our favorite styles in cork decor.
Why Choose Cork Home Decor?
Like any material used in home decor, cork first and foremost has an aesthetic appeal. Considered rustic and timeless, it is a great addition to any part of the home, from bathrooms to kitchens. However, cork also appeals to those looking to reduce their carbon footprint and increase sustainability. These are just a few of the reasons cork is becoming a popular choice in home decor.
Renewable
Cork is harvested from the bark of a cork oak tree, but harvesting does not harm the tree itself. Instead, the bark renews every 9 to 12 years, each time absorbing more CO2 from the environment. Harvested cork oak trees actually absorb 3 to 5 times more CO2 than non-harvested trees. This process helps offset millions of tons of carbon every year.
Not only that, but cork forests in the Mediterranean are home to a huge number of plant and animal species, many of which are endangered. By preserving the tree itself, use of cork is not damaging these important environments.
Biodegradable
Due to its natural properties, cork is completely biodegradable. It can easily be recycled, reused in a different capacity, or even composted. Before composting cork, it is important to make sure it doesn’t also contain any plastic or man-made materials. Products that are 100% cork can be composted at home along with your food scraps.
Anti-Microbial
One of the things many consumers look for in natural home goods are health and safety benefits. Cork fits this list in more ways than one. Because of its natural anti-microbial properties, it combats mold, dust, and other toxins. For those with allergies or wishing to contribute to cleaner air in the home, cork is a great choice.
Durable and Versatile
As natural materials go, cork is incredibly long-lasting. When used in applications like flooring, it can last up to 50 years. As a water-resistant surface, it is a popular choice for many parts of the home, including areas that see significant daily use. This versatile material can be found in many different home applications such as countertops, sound proofing, cabinets, backing for home products, and more and more as stand alone home decor.
Popular Cork Home Decor Trends
Given its many earth-friendly, health, and sustainability qualities, it should come as no surprise that cork is being used throughout the home in both function and aesthetics.
As designers of home decor, kitchenware, and furniture products—especially sustainable solutions—we love exploring and expanding on the latest trends.
For those looking to add some eco-friendly options to their home goods collections or retail products, cork is a great place to start! These are some of our favorite trends in cork home decor that are worth exploring for your next home or kitchen product line.
Cork Planters
A quick search into the latest interior decorating styles will reveal that indoor plants are a great way to add both color and texture to any room. Not only that, but they help reduce stress, increase productivity, and even clean and refresh the air in your home. But what’s the best way to display and house your plants? We think the answer is found in cork.
Cork planters, apart from being a great option for sustainable living, also give any space a more natural aesthetic and appeal. From pots to hanging planters, these plant-friendly items are incredibly lightweight but durable. They can safely hang from ceilings and even curtain rods without the added weight of a ceramic pot. Most of all, cork planters ensure your plants are living in a mold-free environment, extending their life as well as keeping your indoor air clean.
Drink Coasters
Cork has been used as a coaster base for many years to protect glass and other delicate tabletop surfaces from scratches and water stains. Now, cork is becoming a popular material to use for the entire drink coaster. The natural water-repellent surface means it won’t absorb drips or condensation from a mug or glass. Also, the light weight and somewhat gentle surface of the cork means it won’t leave marks, dents, or scratches on any surface—from wood to glass. We particularly love the versatility of cork coasters. By adding stenciled designs, cork coasters can be produced for just about any home or event, whether formal, casual, or just plain fun.
Storage Solutions
Cork home decor really does fit any home style, which is a major part of its appeal. With cork storage solutions, there are options for desk and home office supplies, bathroom storage, or even kitchen storage. Our cork wine rack is one of our favorite options for the home. It lends a raw, natural appeal to the kitchen and can be used either on the counter for aesthetic appeal, or in a storage pantry. Either way, the lightweight rack is both a trendy and sustainable addition to any home.
Serving and Entertaining
Yes, cork has even made its way into items for serving and entertaining! Our line of cork trays and platters are durable enough to use for serving and stylish enough to leave on display on your coffee table, console table, or kitchen counter. Want to add an extra touch of natural appeal to your home collection? We’re fond of the wine/champagne bucket that matches everything from our serving trays to the wine rack and coasters.
Include Cork Home Decor in Your Next Collection
Ready to add more sustainable, earth-friendly products to your retail and home goods collections? Contact our team to learn more about our cork home decor and other natural products professionally designed to fit your brand and your next housewares collection.