Bonus Bone: Bamboo

I used to think bamboo could only be hokey. The word conjured up thoughts of notched flatware and stalked patio furniture that looked like it was cut from the forest that very morning. But bamboo has come a long way (baby) and no longer automatically falls into the novelty category. Bamboo can be as sleek and modern as any wood out there...except it's not a wood. Technically, bamboo is a tropical grass that can grow to maturity 6 times faster than any tree. It grows fast, tall, strong, and, most importantly, pretty.

Bamboo will always have the option of going kitsch (not that there's anything wrong with a little tiki-tiki) but as design technology advances, the chic possibilities of bamboo only multiply. We all know that bamboo can make great flooring but let's take a look at some other innovations.

Shangri La Embossed Wall Flat by Inhabit, made from 100% bamboo pulp

Bamboo 7-Piece Salad Set at Bed, Bath & Beyond

Logic Lounge Chair by Delano Collection

Large Green Bamboo & Stainless Steel Pendant by Blend Creations

Becca Stools by Adapt Design

Bamboo Comfort Towels by Mad Mod, made from 100% bamboo fiber

Slim Slant Coffee Table by Rhubarb Decor

For these reasons, I, Cardboard, declare this a Design Boner.