About

I spent over 25 years working in construction, as a furniture designer and interior architect, both for other companies and in my own practice.

When studying for a Masters in Product Design for the Circular Economy in NCAD I discovered lots of research on what the circular economy could be but not much on how to get there.

I’m a pragmatic person, interested in action. Businesses need efficient, effective ways to get up to speed on this new way of designing, making and delivering goods and services to customers.

That in essence is what the Circular Design Institute is about. We show designers, manufacturers and construction companies how to uniquely deliver value and generate profit in a circular economy.

Our Services

We deliver this service a number of way; talks, workshops, writing of sustainability & ethics policies, implementation and consultancy. For more information on the services we provide click here.

If you’re not ready to commission circular design services yet then check out my free circular economy guides, sign up for my circular economy & design newsletter (see below) or follow me on LinkedIn, where I’ll be posting updates on circular economy and design news.

Our Clients

I have been fortunate to have worked with the following progressive organisations

My work with Dublin City Council was through the sustainability consultancy Sustainability Works

I’m currently involved with 3 government funded circular economy projects looking at how to bring circular products and businesses to fruition in Ireland.

I also currently represent the Irish Wood and Interiors Network (IWIN) on the Circular Economy Working Group of the European Furniture Industries Co-federation.

My Background

I’m a qualified 3D designer with over 25 years experience in furniture, exhibition and interior design. I’ve worked with international architectural practices and ran my own interior architectural practice for 5 years. Although Circular Design is a new venture for me I have been writing and speaking about sustainable living for over 6 years now. You can read more about me on my personal LinkedIn profile.

Elaine Butler