In today’s world, sustainability has become more than a trend—moreover, it stands as a responsibility towards nature and the environment. Especially in the field of architecture, professionals are rethinking materials and processes to reduce environmental impact while also considering human well-being. From eco-friendly architecture to energy-efficient design solutions, sustainable brands are emerging with the aim of balancing functionality with environmental ethics. They emphasise recycled materials, low-carbon emissions, and long-lasting design. As consumers grow more eco-conscious, these brands excel in promoting a lifestyle that values durability, resource efficiency, and harmony with nature. Rhizome is one such brand which we delve into in this article and discuss its potential and way forward.
About Brand – Rhizome
Rhizome was founded in 2009 by Rebecca Reuben and is one of India’s first multidisciplinary sustainability design studios. After working across Asia, Africa, and Europe in the international development sector, she returned to Ahmedabad with the realization that sustainability models from the Western world or developed nations do not always correspond with the realities of the global south or developing regions. While much of the focus in present times is on environmental friendliness, a large part of the design sector still addresses basic human needs and functionality. Rhizome was established to bridge this gap by creating solutions that are both relevant in use and eco-friendly, offering an inclusive approach to sustainable design.
Rhizome Design Studio views design as a vital tool for shaping systems, behaviours, and evolving better possibilities. The studio is directed by its distinctive “Rhizome Approach”—a holistic framework that integrates social, cultural, ecological, and economic dimensions into every design decision. The design philosophy of Rhizome is deeply rooted in the idea that “design is not just form, but a force.” Rhizome creates solutions that are functional, enduring, and sustainable. The studio believes in “designin g networks, not objects,” where each element is resilient, flexible, and part of a larger system, inspired by the adaptive nature of its core values.
Rhizome brings together traditional craft and innovative design and intersects them with sustainability standards. “True sustainability is inclusive, contextual, and evolving,” and such congruence is visible in its work. It goes beyond shallow-level eco-design to address deeper human and environmental needs. Artisans, scientists, and industries collaborate, aiding the studio in developing designs that are cultural, eco-friendly, user-friendly, and aesthetic. Rhizome continues to redefine modern Indian design. Its approach is not only responsible but also aspirational and proves that “sustainability is not a limitation, but a design opportunity.”
Rhizome – Products & Services
Rhizome has a wide range of products in the realm of interior architecture, generally including chairs, tables, lighting, and other basic elements. In addition, it also provides design consultancy services. Various material-based collections can be found, such as bamboo, brass, and wood, with products that are nature-friendly, functional, and affordable. Its bamboo collection features unique series like Bend, Chamfer, Circle, Dotty, Fan, Hangers, Mannequins, Nakashima, Nakaslice, Sawboo, Skinny Folding Chair, Soop, Slice, and Wishin, highlighting sustainable innovation. In brass, products such as Grove, Hangers, Lota, and Mathaar are notable. The wood collection includes Grove, Lota, Maaya, Mathaar, and Relea, offering visual appeal and ease of adaptability. Along with these, Rhizome also provides consultancy services for large-scale interior and architectural projects, with tactful and thoughtful design characteristics that follow its principles of environmental consciousness, pragmatism, durability, and harmony with nature.
Interior design at the Gandhi Ashram Store in Ahmedabad, along with the furniture and interior design at Rann Riders in the Little Rann of Kachchh, and wooden accessories at Sasan Gir, are some of the best examples of Rhizome’s design approach and reflect its design sensibility. In these projects, there is extensive use of local materials and natural products such as wood, while the aesthetics are also carefully considered. Various visually pleasing elements, such as candles and floral arrangements (as depicted in the figures), enhance the spatial beauty and overall experience. Additionally, special rows of hanging lights create an inviting ambience. A clear balance between functionality and sustainability is observed in these designs.
How Rhizome Excels
Rhizome excels as a sustainable platform by exquisitely balancing affordability, aesthetics, quality, and functional performance. Its products are designed to be affordable while maintaining high standards of craftsmanship and visual appeal, making sustainable living more achievable and beneficial for a wider audience, thereby attracting customers and fulfilling its motto of environmental preservation. Furthermore, through its online presence, the studio extends its reach, allowing people to engage with its philosophy and products. It also contributes to local tourism by integrating traditional handicrafts and local materials into its projects and products, thereby supporting local communities and maintaining cultural integrity. It also succeeds in building trust and reliability through consistent, effective, and impactful practice over the years.
Rhizome’s journey has been recognised across various digital and print platforms, showcasing its materials, processes, and commitment to sustainability. Notably, Rebecca Reuben, founder of Rhizome, was featured in “7 Women Leading Sustainable Change in the Bamboo Industry” by BAMBOO U (2 December 2022), highlighting her contribution to sustainable design. Such recognitions reflect Rhizome’s growing influence and its dedication to creating meaningful, responsible, and future-oriented design solutions.
References:
Rhizome Design Studio (n.d.) Official website. Available at: https://www.rhizome.in (Accessed: 23 March 2026).
Rhizome Design Studio (n.d.) Projects and product collections. Available at: https://www.rhizome.in (Accessed: 23 March 2026).
