This year, plantārium had the privilege of joining local design brand inBlooom on a visit to Jing Si Hall in Taipei’s Datong District. Through this firsthand experience, we witnessed the dedication and creativity of the elder volunteers at the Craft Workshop, and saw how design and philanthropy can come together to give new life to recycled fabrics.

Inspiration from Everyday Life – inBlooom
Based in Dadaocheng, Taipei, inBlooom is a homegrown brand that draws inspiration from daily life. From Taiwan’s beloved breakfast foods to grandma’s patterned tiles and iron windows, their designs embody a rich sense of local culture. Beyond aesthetics, inBlooom is also deeply committed to environmental sustainability, continuously promoting eco-friendly living through design.

Practicing Environmental Action

Just a few streets away, in Datong District, Jing Si Hall serves as another moving example of environmental action. When the plantārium team visited, we were warmly greeted by a group of energetic elders. Rain or shine, they devote themselves to volunteer work—ranging from recycling and cooking to sewing and crafting. With steady hands and generous hearts, they dedicate their time and effort to both the environment and the community.

The Magic Workshop that Transforms Fabric

Inside Jing Si Hall, the Craft Workshop feels like a “room of wonders.” Here, the elders channel their skills and creativity, working with donated or recycled fabrics, zippers, lace, and sewing equipment. What might seem like discarded materials are transformed into unique, practical, and beautiful everyday items.

Staying true to the spirit of “making the most of what you have,” the workshop breathes new life into resources. For example, after the devastating 2023 Turkey earthquake, volunteers hand-stitched and donated 500 scarves to the disaster area—sending warmth and hope across borders.

A Craftswoman’s Perseverance

Thanks to this collaboration with inBlooom, plantārium had the chance to personally experience the heart of the Craft Workshop. On the day of our visit, we were guided by Sister Yin-Feng. Though advanced in age and reliant on a cane, she insisted on handling every step herself—from selecting fabrics to cutting and sewing. Her hands, rich with experience and skill, worked each stitch with precision and care. In her touch, an old piece of fabric was reborn as something new and one-of-a-kind.

Her perseverance and frugality—treasuring every resource—left a deep impression on all of us present.

Design Meets Philanthropy

Driven by the belief that “no one should fall behind in doing good,” inBlooom shared its past fabric designs, originally created for various brands, with the Craft Workshop. These stylish and meaningful fabrics became new materials for the elders’ creations, carrying not only design but also love and compassion. Each piece became a vessel of care, extending the warmth of design and philanthropy to more people.

plantārium’s Reflections

For plantārium, this visit was more than just a collaboration—it was a profound learning journey. From the meticulous art of handcrafting to the philosophy of resource reuse, we felt the sincerity of care that flows through our society. Moving forward, plantārium will continue to connect with diverse partners, creating more possibilities for shared goodness and warmth.