The excitement surrounding the recent boom of eco-friendly furniture is partially due to the environmental advantages of these pieces, but some of that enthusiasm can be attributed to design. As furniture makers experiment with new materials -- everything from banana leaves to rubber sandals -- their approach to design is also changing. Shapes and forms are becoming as innovative as the recycled, organic, and sustainable materials they are created with. Here's a look at some of our favorite environmentally -savvy pieces right now.
— Christopher Muther, Globe Staff