Design Philosophy

environmental strategy

We only bring quality products into the urban environment.

To do this responsibly, Street Furniture Australia implements best practices in environmental management.

We maintain an Environmental Management System, including certification to ISO 14001:2015 – an audited systematic approach for measuring and improving the impact on the environment.

A Life Cycle Analysis was completed in December 2021 to show the carbon footprint and climate impact of our seats; to help our customers make an informed choice (enquire now to view this report). In future we will use this data to make design improvements to further reduce the impact of our products.

Additionally in FY21 we completed a comprehensive greenhouse gas assessment to better understand our impacts. We are currently undertaking a greenhouse gas assessment for FY22, with the intention of devising a robust emissions reduction strategy, and pursuing carbon neutral certification.

We recognise we have a responsibility to ensure all of our activities, products and services are designed to protect and enhance the natural environment. We seek to continually improve our environmental performance by exploring new materials, processes and business models that improve the sustainability of our products.

Our current practices include:

Inhouse manufacturing

All products are made-to-order and dispatched from our factory in Western Sydney, Australia. The factory gives preference to local suppliers, uses energy efficiently and actively practises LEAN manufacturing methodologies to minimise waste.

Eco-certified timber

Our hardwood is eco-certified and sourced from sustainably-managed FSC and PEFC-certified forests.

Recyclable materials

We use 100% recyclable aluminium and steel frames, and aluminium battens.

Durability

Our products are made to last for decades through the exclusive use of premium heavy-duty materials and finishes.

Your right to repair

Our products are designed to allow for easy replacement of damaged parts. We provide our customers with the assurance that spare parts will be readily available well into the future.

See a case study of refurbishing 20-year-old Australian War Memorial seats.

Timeless design

Design quality impacts the lifespan of a product. We invest in R&D to deliver the best in aesthetic detail, safety, ergonomics, functionality, low maintenance and vandal-resistance to our clients. Every part is designed thoughtfully to bring lasting enjoyment to the public environment.

Leading and supporting industry change

Street Furniture Australia encourages our suppliers and contractors to uphold similar environmental standards. We support leadership initiatives by the Australian Institute of Landscape Architects to drive broader industry change, including through the Declaration of a Climate and Biodiversity Emergency.



recent news

Piatto Chair receives Good Design Award

Piatto Chair has been recognised in Australia’s International Good Design Awards for Excellence in Design and Innovation. Sydney, Friday 20 September 2024 – The 2024 Australian Good Design Awards were unveiled, showcasing the pinnacle of design excellence in a grand ceremony at the International Convention Centre (ICC) Sydney. This year’s theme, “The Design Effect” underscored the crucial role design plays in shaping better products, services, spaces, and experiences while driving the transition to a more sustainable, less carbon-intensive future. Piatto Chair received a prestigious Good Design Award in the Product Design category for exceptional design and innovation. The Jury praised Piatto Chair commenting: The Piatto Chair offers a robust and aesthetically pleasing solution for public domain seating. Its ability to withstand outdoor conditions while remaining movable and adaptable showcases a thoughtful approach …

  • 23 sep 2024
read more

Trend Watch September 2024

How the humble bollard can add to the social life of communities Writer Fred Kent and Kathy Madden from Social Life Project share how bollards, an often overlooked amenity, can be multifunctional when done right, creating community connection through seating, gathering, artistic statement or as a gentle “nudge” for drivers to behave better. It is the small elements that change the whole character of a street and bollards are the simplest element that encourage social life to an often boring crosswalk. “At their best, they are places to lean on, perch, or strike up a conversation.”  There are many different types of bollards, different shapes and different sizes. Bollards are used in different ways, even for greenery. The most successful ones support social activity.  Kent and Madden write, “This is …

  • 24 sep 2024
read more

Wicking beds keep plants healthy and save water and labour

Linea Planters and Frame Planters are keeping plants healthy while reducing maintenance costs, thanks to wicking beds. Wicking beds by WaterUps save up to 80% of water when compared with traditional drip irrigation. According to WaterUps, watering is only necessary every two weeks in summer, decreasing to four weeks in autumn and six weeks in winter.  Wollongong City Council first installed wicking beds in their planters in 2019. Before installation the Council’s gardeners were watering their plants two to three times a week.  “Now, when it gets warm, we’re probably just doing it once a week, depending on what’s in there and how big the pot is,” says Wollongong Council horticulturist Peter Parsons. There are currently 240 planters across Wollongong CBD maintained by the council, with about 90% watered with …

  • 24 jul 2024
read more