Bamboo Revolution

Strength and Durability of Bamboo

A symbol of strength and durability, Bamboo (Bambusoideae), a flowering perennial evergreen plant in the grass family Poaceae, holds strong significance and importance in many Asian cultures. Bamboo has long been used as a building material, due to its surprising strength and versatility. This fascinating plant has a higher ounce-for-ounce compressive strength than wood, brick, or concrete, and boasts a tensile strength that rivals steel. According to an article by Mary Roach in Discovery magazine, “a short, straight column of bamboo with a top surface area of 10 square centimeters could support an 11,000-pound elephant.”

Friendship and Loyalty

The physical strength of Bamboo and its intricate, interconnected root system has led to its metaphoric symbolization of integrity, loyalty, friendship, and community. Bamboo is thin yet grows straight up without breaking or folding, and that vertical structure symbolizes uprightness and honor. Additionally, the roots of a bamboo forest intertwine and become entangled which maintains the integrity of the forest floor by protecting it from runoff, quite literally holding the earth together. It is that cooperation that makes Bamboo such an incredible symbol for strength,community, and friendship.

Flexibility, Endurance and Adaptability of Bamboo

“Notice that the stiffest tree is most easily cracked, while the bamboo or willow survives by bending with the wind.” Bruce Lee, along with many before and after him, truly appreciated the flexibility of Bamboo and acknowledged that because of it, it can weather any storm and endure just about anything. Bamboo signifies adaptability, as it can bend in any direction and moves whichever way the wind instructs instead of fighting against it. Immediately following the storm, bamboo will return to its upright position exemplifying endurance. It is this incredible combination of strength and flexibility that makes bamboo the perfect representation of balance and harmony.

Beauty and Sustainability of Bamboo

Bamboo furniture has a rich history and holds an honored place in traditional and modern culture. Not only is Bamboo beautiful and resilient, it is an environmentally sound choice as well. Because Bamboo is not a tree but a grass, certain species of bamboo plant can grow up to a meter a day. Bamboo is therefore one of the planet’s most eco-friendly, rapidly renewable resources. A new plant is ready to harvest in as little as 5 years and can begin to regrow immediately after. Additionally, bamboo releases 35% more oxygen into the atmosphere than the equivalent stands of trees. Bamboo is not only resilient to human consumption, but a champion for atmospheric stability.

Bamboo Furniture at Haiku Designs

Haiku is proud to provide such an extensive bamboo furniture catalog. Greenington, esteemed makers of fine Bamboo furniture, have created Asian Fusion masterpieces including but not limited to the Azara Collection, Currant Collection, and Sienna Collection. Covering every room in the home, the various Greenington Collections bring harmony and balance into the home. Slim and sleek design together with the characteristic strength that makes bamboo a marvelous wonder, Greenington furniture will create for you a space that is beautifully serene and exquisitely peaceful for years to come.

Jovanna, Haiku Designs Staff