Designing for longevity: four recommendations from the architectural surface experts

From humble beginnings selling stone pebbles off the back of a ute in Melbourne, to a global name in architectural surfaces and furniture, Eco Outdoor has spent the last 22 years innovating and developing beautiful natural stone products designed to last a lifetime. 

Design is, by nature, a trend focussed industry, but rather than follow trends blindly, Eco Outdoor takes a holistic approach, noticing trends, but ultimately, crafting  products that are timeless. Following this ethos, they work closely with quarries around the world to source quality stone that will age gracefully, uphold its integrity, and fit seamlessly into a variety of environments. 

With the goal to design outside of the trend cycle, Eco Outdoor offers four key pieces of advice to create spaces that feel modern, yet classic.

1. Design spaces to last a lifetime

When designing your space, it is important to think long term. How can the design adapt to support your needs as they evolve? What materials will be best to support your lifestyle? Specifying surfaces, such as quality stone and tile, that are strong enough to withstand regular use and challenging weather conditions, will give you a reliable base to work from as planting or furniture needs changing. Ensuring your materials are designed to last also means you’re less likely to need to repair or replace them, reducing strain on your wallet and the environment.

2. Blur the line between indoor and outdoor spaces with tile and stone

Stone and tile have been used in design and architecture for centuries, solidifying their timeless aesthetic. Bringing these hardy materials indoors is a great way to create a seamless transition from outdoor to indoor spaces, ensure longevity, and increase visual interest.

While Eco Outdoor are not driven by trends, they have recently noticed an increase in outdoor products specified for use internally — in unexpected ways. From crazy paving in living rooms and bedrooms to cobblestones on bathroom floors and walls, the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces have truly been blurred.

3. Choose products that will age well and suit the environment

Part of designing for longevity is selecting materials that will age gracefully, maintaining their structural integrity and beauty even with wear. Eco Outdoor’s stone and tile is made from high quality raw materials that are selected for their strength, durability, and character. When worn down by weather and human interaction, quality stone develops a unique patina that is impossible to imitate.

Eco Outdoor also stresses the importance of choosing stones and tiles that suit the environment in which they are used. Not only does this ensure a cohesive aesthetic, but guarantees a long and sustainable life for the product.

4. Work with nature rather than against it

When designing outdoor spaces, you’re not only contending with landform, soil composition, and planting, but changing weather conditions, too. Rather than overworking the landscape, Eco Outdoor recommends using the beauty and character of your landscape to your advantage.

When it comes to their products, Eco Outdoor believes mother nature is the best architect. They love to celebrate the beauty of raw materials, imperfections and textural richness that can only be found in nature. When you work with nature and not against it, the wonder that you can bring into spaces and places is truly inspiring.

By adopting the ethos of design for longevity, rather than following the ever-changing trend cycle, you are guaranteed to create a space that can be enjoyed over multiple lifetimes.

Learn more about Eco Outdoor or visit our Auckland showroom – 35A Normanby Road, Mt Eden or online.