The New Model 1hr Tote
The 1hr Tote
For New Model
03 / 2020
Dowel Jones was founded by Adam Lynch and Dale Hardiman in 2014. Over the past 6 years, Dowel Jones has grown from a small furniture studio helping to furnish local cafes, to producing furniture, lighting and accessories now found in homes and interiors all across the world. New Model is the new sister brand of Dowel Jones interested in utilising remnant, surplus and waste materials as the primary focus. "As the climate is changing, so are we" - Dale.
At face value, New Model is a rational response to a simple problem. Dowel Jones produces upholstered furniture, a by-product of which is remnant fabric. Turning remnant fabric into bags is an easy way to make use of this otherwise unused resource. And making the bags to order is the most straightforward transaction, like ordering a meal. The remarkable aspect of New Model is it's environmental benefits when compared with modern conventional production methods.
New Model is next to completely transparent. The manufacturing takes place literally in public which allows you to see both the workers and the working conditions. It’s also simple to see which elements of the product are non-recycled as they are clearly marked in green.
New Model reduces waste streams and creates no new waste. The bag patterns have been developed to produce no offcuts, and as products are made to order there is no surplus stock.
New Model has a tiny carbon footprint. As the bulk of the fabric has been diverted from waste streams the only emissions attributed to this element is transport to the venue. Moving of the fabrics and machines is the only logistics involved, no shipping or warehousing of products. Electricity used on the day accounts for almost all carbon emissions.
The design of the tote also focuses on sustainable principals; the unisex silhouette is timeless, it's size and style is versatile for both work and travel; and its sturdy construction is designed to last. The 1hr Tote is made to order in a custom choice of fabric at the New Model 8hr Factory, a live making event launched as part of Melbourne Design Week 2020. The 1hr Tote received was shortlisted for The Design Files Sustainability Award 2020 and received a special commendation.