Over the past centuries, we have evolved from the mere existence of primitive hunters and laborers into a society of technical savvy humans. Each new generation looks back at the last to proclaim an excellence in the forward moving progress of the given day. Unfortunately, our once fertile forests are turning barren and our oil surplus that makes the awesome plastics of today, now out paces the gasoline usage in vehicles. A new society is needed and some members of the modern furniture field have found a way to start the battle.

Orange22, a Los Angeles based design firm that was founded in 2000, decided that it was time to give back to society and our world to begin the much needed change. Their newly released project referred to as Blank Canvas Project is doing just that. Chosen icons in the professional art world are stamping their personal mark of design, making it possible for everyone to enjoy a piece of signature art in their home that is both unique and functional.

Leading Orange22 into a new society is a dedicated staff that have been challenged by using the ingenuity and creativity that they are known for. Armed with only their skills, providing solutions for traditional furnishings without harming the environment is a large feat in itself but these artists are going one step further. Fighting problems of social plight, such as cancer, AIDS and other worldwide problems are dreams that they have chosen to tackle.

To date, Orange22 has created an initial line of Botanist furniture, known as the Botanist Blank Canvas Project. A dynamic team of designers were hand picked by Dario Antonioni, Founder and Creative Director of Orange22, to leave their artistic mark on three pieces of furniture, a bench, coffee table and end table of the Blank Canvas Series. Each designer, together with Orange22, donates a portion of the royalty to a charity or foundation of their choice.

Milton Glaser, Kahi Lee, Massimo and Lella Vignelli and Clause Zellweger are a few of the icons that have contributed to Orange22 with outstanding designs on the bench that can be used as a seat, coffee table or end table. Presented in a variety of colors and environmentally friendly, these pieces can be used as a work of art or functionally in a living room, hallway or even on an outside patio.

Dario hopes that his doctrine of utilizing collaboration to create positive change will resonate beyond the design community, modern home furniture, and ultimately help to affect and inspire the greater global community. Orange22 has plans for Botanist in the future, as well. Antonioni is currently working on a book called A Decade of Botanist: A Philanthropic Product, 80 designers and 80 foundations and how we’ve helped change the world.

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