Finding a sustainable shop in China is no easy feat. Despite the ethical progress in some factories, Chinese customers are still hard pressed to find retail points for eco fashion in their country.

But, venture to the second floor of the International Artist Factory in the thriving arts and shopping district of Taikang in Shanghai, and a lovely surprise awaits you! An inviting, light, newly renovated 100sq meter loft space opens up, full of wonderful and unique creations. You’ve arrived at Nest, a brand new store devoted to the celebration of conscious design.

The story of Nest starts with Trine Targett, a Danish native with an Asian heart who launched her design brand Jooi in 2001. Her quest to contemporize the crafts of traditional Chinese artisans led her to the creation of a desirable brand of responsibly manufactured fashion accessories and house wares.

Armed with her new understanding and the belief that “the sum is greater than its individual parts”, Trine spearheaded a collaboration with seven other brands to create a place that would be a store and much much more. The new space has indeed become a design incubator and a showcase for Chinese made sustainable design, encouraging dialogue and education through its “Designer Talk Evenings”. It’s also working towards becoming one of the first ‘carbon neutral’ retail destinations in China.

As far as the actual goods go, Nest hosts exclusive product lines from a group of young promising companies. In the fashion department, the brand collaborations include natural fiber women’s clothing from Brown Rice, baby clothes from Wobabybasics, recycled bags and accessories from Y-Town, and of course, accessories from Jooi, the brand that started it all.

Over time, NEST will introduce new brands and host more designer talks and learning events.

NEST is located on the 2nd floor of the International Artist Factory on Lane 210, Taikang Road in Shanghai – a destination worth searching out.

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