Housing is one of the most complex problems of our time. Demand has outpaced supply. Government funding is not enough. Housing providers are forced to build for cost-efficiency - and utilitarian spaces expose society to negative experiences in social housing. Materials have the power to change the way you feel in a space, and we believe everyone deserves to live in a home with soul - social housing is no exception. That's why we donate architectural materials to housing providers who share our values. Our mission is to lift the quality and aesthetic value of social housing and instil a sense of pride in its residents and the community.
What we stand for
We know that although someone’s basic needs can be met in social housing, their more complex emotional needs (pride in home, worthiness, connection to community) are at risk. Lifting not only the quantity but the quality and aesthetic value of social housing is important to us. Through materials, we can change the way people feel in a space.
Who we do it for
The people living in social housing, made up mostly of single women with children, are the people we do this work for. Women and families are Eco Outdoor’s core customer, we know it’s important for them to create a home that looks good, feels good, and makes them proud. We want to instil the same sense of pride in women and families in social housing, and alleviate feelings of inadequacy, isolation and unworthiness. To achieve this, we want to partner with providers who strive to create inspiring spaces that feel like home.
Housing providers we work with
We work with select community housing providers who share our mission and values: • Innovative, curious and entrepreneurial • Collaborative, want to work with us from the start • Building homes, not houses, investing in the quality • Creating community through shared spaces • Sustainability, longevity minded • Accept product, not just financial donations
“Materials change the way you feel in a space, and how you feel is important, regardless of whether you live in an expensive house, an affordable house or social housing.” Ben Kerr, Founder, Eco Outdoor
What we offer
Eco Outdoor materials celebrate the textures and imperfections of nature. Each material is chosen for its textural warmth, timeless aesthetic and durability.
Partnership opportunities
1. Portfolio partners Preferred community housing providers who we work with on multiple projects 2. One-off partners Non-portfolio community housing providers whose project aligns with our mission and product offer 3. Out of scope requests We support projects directly related to social housing for example; a café component or furniture request
Join Us
If you are an architect, developer or housing provider working on social housing or related community project that aligns with our mission and values, we’d love to hear from you.
