Topher Paterno’s life is rooted in finding eco-conscious solutions for living. He designs and builds custom interiors, casework, and highly crafted individual art furnishings. On a larger scale, he offers eco-consulting services in commercial product development. His core belief is that luxury does not need to come at a cost to the environment.
“I believe that surrounding yourself with good things is an important aspect to creating a healthy environment. Where you spend the hours of your day should make you feel good inside and out. I create home furnishings have a worth far beyond a cost measured in dollars. I offer responsible, luxurious design”
Topher holds an MFA in Furniture Design from The Rhode Island School of Design where he created RISD’S first Green Materials Library. He is an instructor at Otis College of Art and Design where he teaches Material Exploration and Eco-Conscious Design, and The Art Institute of California where he teaches Furniture Making and Introduction to Product Design.
“As an educator, I try and express that design choices serve as a message to others. I teach design for better systems, sustainable development, to show those around me that high design can be a torch for responsible luxury.”
