Ethical Production & Sustainable Design
Sustainability and ethical production aren't a marketing promise at AARVEN — they're the foundation we were built on.
We work exclusively with small-scale artisan groups, elevating their traditional craft skills and connecting talented makers with the international market. The global supply chain has a human face, and we believe our choices as consumers matter. In the words of designer and activist Orsola de Castro: "Demand quality, not just in the products you buy, but in the lives of the people who make them."
Because many of our artisan partners are too small to afford formal certification, Amy carries out in-person audits herself, following the 10 Principles of Fair Trade, to make sure our high social and environmental standards are met at every stage of production. All prices are set by the artisans themselves.
Every AARVEN design uses natural or recycled materials. We consolidate orders across our artisan network so that goods can be shipped by sea wherever possible, minimising carbon emissions. Almost all of our products are vegan-friendly, and we're always looking to expand those ranges further. All packaging for in-store and online orders is made from 100% recycled and recyclable materials.
Our Artisans
AARVEN's collections are the result of genuine collaboration. Amy works closely with each artisan group to develop original designs you won't find anywhere else — pieces that honour the skill and heritage of the maker while bringing something fresh and contemporary to your home.
Every product tells a story: a hand-woven light shade from Ghana, a recycled brass ring cast by a husband and wife team in Nairobi, botanical inspired incense, scented by hand in Kolkata. When you choose AARVEN, you're not just choosing ethically made homeware — you're choosing something made with care, skill, and meaning.
Find out more about our artisans and read their stories here.
Community & Our Margate Store
In August 2017, AARVEN opened a store in the vibrant seaside town of Margate — home to the Turner Contemporary art gallery and some of the most beautiful sunsets in England. Community has always been central to who we are, whether that's our local neighbourhood here in the UK or the remarkable artisan communities we collaborate with overseas. We believe that collaboration is the key to a more connected world.
Find out more about the AARVEN Margate store and plan your visit here.
Giving Back
To date, AARVEN has raised over £7,500 for charity. We believe that doing business well means giving something back, and we're proud to support charitable initiatives in the communities where we live and work. We are always looking to deepen our partnerships with organisations making a real difference in the regions we work in.
Read more about our charity impact here.
If you have any questions about the way we work, or would like to discuss a collaboration, please get in touch.