Sustainability

At the heart of what we do

Sustainability is central to our design philosophy.

Ode to Elma was born from the idea that waste materials can be transformed into beautiful, meaningful objects designed to last. Through repurposing and the use of recycled materials, we aim to challenge perceptions and show that everyday materials can become functional, considered design.

Our handmade pieces begin as waste paper, which is recycled into paper pulp and transformed into a durable yet lightweight material. The result is a sculptural form with a rich textural quality — each piece unique, with its own subtle variations and imperfections.

We believe there is beauty in imperfection.

Our aim is to tread as lightly as possible on the earth, considering the impact of our decisions not only in our design and production processes, but in the way we operate our business as a whole.

Our founder has completed a Diploma in Sustainable Living through the University of Tasmania, further deepening her understanding of sustainable practice and design.

We see sustainability as an ongoing practice rather than a destination — always learning, refining and improving.

Below are some of the ways we incorporate sustainable practices into our business and design processes.

  • HANDMADE

    Each piece is individually made by hand with care and intention, they are not mass produced. We value the slow, thoughtful process of making by hand and the unique details that give each piece its perfectly imperfect character.

  • MATERIALS

    Recycled paper pulp is the core material used to create our designs. Paint and varnish used in the finishing of our products are all water based, low VOC and non toxic. All fittings and fixtures are sourced as locally as possible to minimise our environmental footprint.

  • PACKAGING

    All our packaging is plastic free, recyclable or biodegradable. We use only recycled paper & natural plant-based packing peanuts to ensure your goods arrive safely. They are shipped in recycled cardboard boxes with water activated kraft paper tape as the adhesive.

  • RECYCLE

    We aim to operate as close to a circular economy as possible focusing on minimizing waste and maximizing resource use. Waste is kept to a bare minimum with everything being repurposed or recycled. We reuse boxes and packing materials where possible.

  • RESOURCES

    Harvested rainwater is used in the pulp making process. A strainer ensures no excess mixture or unwanted particles enters the waterways. Our pieces are all air dried under the suns rays saving on precious natural energy resources.

  • PLANET

    As a business we are focussed on earth friendly practices that minimise waste and reduce our impact on this planet. We are always re-evaluating our processes striving to make improvements in pursuit of a happier and more sustainable world.
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Meet the Maker - Kerrie Mould

Growing up in New Zealand with actively anti-waste parents, I was always finding new uses for things — altering op-shop clothing, repurposing objects and making do with what was already available. After a brief period of youthful overconsumption in my twenties, I found myself returning to those values and carrying them into adult life.

After relocating to Melbourne, I established Ode to Elma with the aim of challenging perceptions around reclaimed and recycled materials — showing that ordinary, everyday materials can be transformed into beautiful, functional objects designed to last.

Named in memory of my Nana, Elma, Ode to Elma is a nod to a time when people mended, repaired and reused what they had out of necessity, care and resourcefulness.

What was once considered frugality is now recognised as sustainability. In many ways, we have come full circle, rethinking how we live and what we consume as we face growing environmental and cost-of-living pressures.

Driven by a desire to keep learning, I recently completed a Diploma in Sustainable Living through the University of Tasmania, further deepening my understanding of sustainable practice and design.

What began with a small collection of pendant lights made from 100% recycled paper pulp has since expanded to include bowls and vessels. The material creates a rich textural quality and organic feel, resulting in pieces that are both mindful of their environmental impact and beautiful to live with.

Inspired by the natural world, my work explores texture, colour and form. Every piece is handmade in my Melbourne studio.

AS SEEN IN

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MEDIA COVERAGE

We have been lucky enough to have our work featured in many leading Australian and International design and interiors print magazines as well as online publications. We were also extremely privileged to have out lights in the Impossible House which was featured on Grand Designs Australia.

For a detailed look at where we have been featured click on the button below.

OUR MEDIA COVERAGE