San Francisco design studio gets Grammy nomination for sustainable album artwork

In San Francisco's Dolores Heights, The Office of Ordinary Things, or "TOOOT," operates from the ground floor of an old Victorian, showcasing a unique design and branding ethos. Founded by graphic designer Jonny Black, the studio specializes in working with companies committed to environmental sustainability and social good. Alongside designer Giorgia Sage, they emphasize that effective design can significantly reduce waste, focusing particularly on the substantial environmental impact of packaging.

Countless creative solutions exist to promote sustainability in design, with a primary concern being the environmental cost of packaging materials. Black points out that the production of paper and cardboard contributes to deforestation and requires considerable energy and water resources, not to mention a notable carbon footprint. Thus, our designers select resources mindfully, opting for sustainable materials sourced domestically to further limit carbon emissions associated with shipping.

The firm actively minimizes single-use plastics in their design processes, understanding that while it may not be entirely feasible to exclude plastics, reducing their usage is a priority. Recently, Toot's commitment to sustainability and innovative design earned them a nomination for the Grammy Award for "Best Recording Package" for their work with the Avett Brothers, a band that shares a passion for eco-conscious practices.

Scott Avett of the band expresses his admiration for Black and Sage, highlighting their combination of intelligence and heartfelt creativity. The Grammy-nominated packaging for their eponymous album features a tactile design enriched with hidden textures and personal symbols, reflecting the band's lyrical themes. Black's personal connection to the album, particularly after experiencing a family loss, deepened his appreciation for its emotional weight, which informed the design process.

The album's packaging is characterized by an intriguing balance of simplicity and complexity, with each lyric treated as a piece of poetry, adorned with unique illustrations. As the 67th Grammy Awards approaches, both Black and Sage feel honored by the nomination, recognizing it as a humbling acknowledgment of their effort to intertwine artistic expression with a commitment to sustainability. The ceremony is set to air on February 2, 2025, exclusively on CBS.