When it comes to design, it’s often hard to decipher greenwashing from a true commitment to a product’s ethical life cycle. We have always tried to reduce our impact on the planet as much as possible and have been dedicated to finding solutions for every step of our process. This is why we are thrilled to share a breakthrough innovation in commercial carpeting — our new 100% biodegradable woven Axminster carpet, EcoAx.

Officially launching in January 2024, EcoAx will be available for all commercial and residential custom floor coverings in a beautiful selection of eight refined and natural colours; pearl, ivory, fog, dust, pepper, sand, taupe and umbra.

EcoAx carpet marks a new standard, offering superior durability and versatility for custom machine-made floor coverings. Composed of 100% dye-free wool and a jute backing, this carpet naturally decomposes within just 12 months when returned to the soil, enriching the soil in the process.

CREATIVE MATTERS’ ECO FRIENDLY WOVEN AXMINISTER

EcoAx is crafted using 100% wool, woven into a 100% jute backing, as opposed to traditional woven Axminster, composed of 80% wool and 20% nylon. With EcoAx, every tuft of wool yarn is woven securely with the backing, in a single operation, creating a strong three-dimensional structure. This maintains the distinctive Axminster construction method, woven on a loom, ensuring enduring beauty made to stand the test of time.

Without testing the construction, it was difficult to determine whether crafting a 100% biodegradable woven Axminster would be possible. On a mission to secure unparalleled durability, EcoAx was taken through rigorous trials, pushing the boundaries to see how it could fare without using nylon. After rounds of sample production testing, EcoAx received the same durability score as a standard woven Axminster.

“If our client’s interior design goal is to create a truly sustainable space, then EcoAx is an excellent choice. We’re currently conducting extensive sampling to assess how EcoAx translates our individual designs, and we continue to modify our design approach to maximize the visual opportunities,” says Ana Cunningham, Managing Partner, Creative Matters. “Regardless of whether our clients opt for EcoAx, we will always work with them to divert carpet from landfill as much as possible. From the inception of all Creative Matters’ designs, we consider the full life cycle, ensuring our commitment to sustainability does not end once a floor covering is made.”

THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS OF CARPET

For too long, landfills have been filled with a staggering accumulation of carpets, especially of the commercial variety. In the United States, 3.5% of landfill waste is carpeting, with 75% to 90% being commercial carpets. Most of these carpets will sit in landfills indefinitely, as they’re often made from non-organic materials like polypropylene or nylon.

EcoAx serves as an essential alternative for the industry. Not only does it biodegrade entirely, but its installation method further supports its incredible future-focused capabilities.

“Typically, the industry’s preferred installation method is to double glue. With EcoAx, we will coordinate with our clients to ensure the design is stretched across a biodegradable underpad and tacked down when installed. Refraining from using glue means a carpet can be removed from an interior with no residue attached, allowing it to remain 100% biodegradable. From there, the carpet can be shredded and used for insulation, landscaping or compost. The carpets can also be cleaned and upcycled as a runner or area rug,” Ana explained.

THE FUTURE OF ECOAX

The response to EcoAx has been nothing short of extraordinary. Over the past few months, we initiated a soft launch with select clients, and their enthusiasm is palpable. This momentum is incredibly exciting.

Recognizing the global challenges at hand, we believe in actively contributing to solutions rather than waiting for industry leaders to push the needle. With a team brimming with talent, innovative ideas, and a genuine love for the environment, we possess the collective power to drive significant change.

*Samples of Creative Matters’ EcoAx carpet*

Looking ahead, we envision EcoAx emerging as the gold standard in carpeting. To realize this vision, we are educating clients about the benefits of EcoAx, and the importance of a carpet’s end of life cycle. We are fortunate to collaborate with manufacturers who are aligned in this mission. With their support, we are optimistic about achieving our long-term goal of diverting carpets from landfill entirely within the next decade.

To learn more about EcoAx, click here. Read all about Creative Matters’ commitment to environmentally-conscious solutions, click here to read our 2023 Sustainability Report.

INTRODUCING ECOAX: A BIODEGRADABLE WOVEN AXMINISTER CARPET

LOOKING BACK ON 2023, OUR 35TH YEAR OF EXCEPTIONAL RUG DESIGN

CREATIVE MATTERS RECAPS LES RENDEZ-VOUS DE LA MATIÈRE + FAIR(E)