about el


	SUSTAINABILTY Jill Salisbury, founder and chief designer of el:Environmental Language, constantly applies nature's wisdom into the design of her furniture. Her innovative approach balances high style with eco-friendly solutions that meet with the most stringent environmental and performance standards available. The integrity of el is assured through its promise of heirloom quality craftsmanship. The result is an eco-chic interpretation that celebrates the materials as well as the design.
WOOD
All external wood parts used in the manufacturing of el furniture are of the highest grade, sustainably harvested wood and veneers unless otherwise specified. These, like all natural materials, are subject to variation in grain and coloration.	Product Standards - Typical eco-Intelligent materials Typical wood products: Locally reclaimed Sustainably harvested woods FSC Certified Standard wood types: Walnut Rift cut Oak Cherry Specialty Wood: Bamboo A readily renewable resource - grows back within 5 years. Structural woods: Maple Poplar FSC Certified MDF with no added formaldehyde: Tagua Nut Mimics ivory Originates in Ecuador Nut is too hard to eat
FINISHES
el’s natural, non-toxic finishes have been developed to be comparable with finishes in today’s market. Finish specifications must be shown on each order. NOTES: 1. Finished pieces may vary in tone and character. No guarantee can be made of an exact match. 2. The degree of sheen on finishes will vary with product category.	Product Standards - Typical eco-Intelligent finishes Standard Finish Natural Lacquer Derived from tree sap Natural and non-toxic Extremely durable Standard Finish options: Dark Ebony Ebony wash Clear coat Stone: By-product from local kitchen countertop fabricator el uses their remnants that would otherwise be considered waste Metal Options: Stainless Steel with 75% recycled content Recyclable
UPHOLSTERY ORDERS
el constructs its upholstered furniture with natural latex, wrapped in organic wool batting, which is treated with chrysanthemum and therefore naturally fights off dust mites. Wool is also naturally flame resistant. El relies in the inherent qualities of these natural materials rather than treating our product with chemicals that mimic the same results.	Typical upholstery materials: Natural Latex Foam A readily renewable resource Organic Wool Batting A readily renewable resource Treated with crysanthemum to prevent dust mites by 99.7% Naturally flame resistant Wool barrier cloth - Naturally flame resistant A readily renewable resource Jute webbing Steel springs where applicable PVA glue - non-toxic
CARE AND MAINTENANCE
	el employs a multi-step finishing process to its wood and veneer products. The finishes used are specifically formulated to provide long lasting durability and protection without the use of synthetic polymers or volatile organic compounds (VOC). The topcoat is a natural resin finish that protects the wood; however, the topcoat is not waterproof, and any liquid spilled on the surface must be wiped off immediately to avoid discoloration. Due to the protective nature of the topcoat, the care for el furniture is similar to high quality varnished furniture. Cleaning only requires gently dusting the surface with a soft, moist, lint-free cloth. This should be followed with a drying cloth. Since dust can act as a potential abrasive, improper rubbing can result in fine hairline scratches. The application of any commonly available furniture polish should be avoided. For minor surface scratches and general wear and tear blemishes, a maintenance wax consisting of carnauba wax is recommended. It is recommended that the furniture be placed out of direct sunlight. el upholstery fabrics should occasionally be vacuumed to maintain their quality and appearance. el upholstery leather should be dusted regularly. Avoid use of oils, waxes, etc. Leathers may occasionally be cleaned with a clean, soft, dampened cloth.