Our Story

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. They became the foundation for Ode to Elma.
Named in memory of my Nana, Elma, the studio is a tribute to the quiet resourcefulness she embodied — a generation who mended, repaired and reused with care and creativity.

What was once considered frugality is now recognised as sustainability, and in many ways we've come full circle.

Today, I transform reclaimed paper into lighting and objects that celebrate texture, colour and form - embracing the subtle variations that make handmade work so special.

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

Every piece is handcrafted in my Melbourne studio, one careful step at a time.

Our Approach

Every Ode to Elma piece begins with an overlooked material and a belief that thoughtful design can change the way we see it.

What was once considered waste is carefully transformed by hand into sculptural forms rich in texture and character.

No two pieces are exactly alike. The subtle variations and imperfections left by the making process are not flaws to be hidden, but qualities to be celebrated.

Sustainability isn't simply about the materials we choose. It guides the way we design, make and operate our business — encouraging thoughtful decisions, continual learning and a commitment to doing better wherever we can.

Below are some of the ways sustainability is woven 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.
1 6