Spotlight on Altiplano

Inspired by the traditional crafts and spirited vibes of the high mountain plains of Guatemala, Altiplano is another eco-friendly company that deserves a closer look.

Two adventurous Americans, John von Wodtke and Shari Zarin, established Altiplano after a life-altering backpacking trip to South America. It was Guatemala, pictured above, that stole the show for these two travelers.

Their company started when they bought crafts from the local community and sold them upon their return to the states. They instinctively continued on this path and created an entire business devoted to the crafts of Guatemala, the preservation of their community, and to spreading the unique culture of the highlands.

Today, they have their very own fair-trade workshop located in Lake Atitlan, Guatemala, where they employ members of the local community, supporting small family businesses, co-ops, and women, to create wonderful pieces ranging from jewelry to handbags and scarves.

All of the products in the Altiplano line are created in the highlands of Guatemala, and carry the richness of culture and place with them.

Come to Treehouse to see these beautiful items in person! And while you are here, visit Bella Luna, our beautiful sister store.

A spotlight on Bambu

We here at Treehouse are driven by a desire to better our environment by supporting and building an eco-community. For this reason, we are going to start a monthly spotlight on the different companies and foundational principles that we adhere to and that are the basis of our business. The first of these spotlights is on Bambu.

Bambu is a “renewable ideas company”. As such, Bambu is more than a company specializing in sustainable kitchenware; it is a movement, a wave of thought, an intention of direction towards a sustainable and socially responsible future. The entire Bambu way of business is unique and indicative of their desire to improve the global situation on many levels.

To begin with, the Bambu process is entirely sustainable and eco-friendly. Bambu is the first company to work with a certified organic bamboo source; that is, there are no pesticides used in the production of their bamboo. Along with the renewable bamboo source, renewable cork and coconuts are also used to create innovative new products.

In addition to eco-friendly products, the packaging is also eco-friendly, made of vegan and biodegradable materials with vegetable-based dyes for color. Even waste from production is recycled. In fact, Bambu pebbles won a design award for their beauty, and they are made of scraps left over from other products. Other leftovers are used for fuel to keep the processing self-sustaining.

Aside from being eco-friendly, Bambu is also socially responsible, adheres to fair-trade standards, and with its home base in China employs local residents to create a difference in local communities.

In the words of co-founder Jeff Delkin, this company truly is about “product, people, and planet”.

Come to Treehouse and help us support this fresh and innovative company! And while you are in the neighborhood, be sure to stop by our sister store, Bella Luna! Follow our blog by clicking "follow" on the left side of this screen.