deep dive

Why does it matter if your materials are made in the U.S.?

At Originate, we’re committed to offering building materials that promote environmentally conscious design and reflect the values of local and regional sourcing. Many of the products we carry are manufactured in the United States, and some go even further by using raw materials sourced entirely from within the country.

Why is this important? Selecting U.S.-made products helps shrink the carbon footprint tied to long-distance shipping, bolsters domestic employment, and supports manufacturing practices that are more transparent and ethically aligned. In addition to these benefits, relying on local production can help manage overall project costs by minimizing import and freight expenses—all without compromising on performance or design appeal.

Materials Fully Made & Sourced in the U.S.

These products go beyond domestic manufacturing by sourcing their raw materials entirely within the U.S., setting a high standard for sustainability, local economic impact, and supply chain transparency. This commitment to 100% U.S.-based production establishes a new benchmark for environmentally responsible design and construction. By eliminating the need for international shipping and reducing transportation-related emissions, they play a critical role in lowering the embodied carbon of each project. Supporting locally sourced materials also strengthens regional economies, sustains American industries, and helps preserve skilled manufacturing jobs nationwide. Designers and builders aiming to meet the highest environmental standards benefit from this increased transparency and accountability, which enhances traceability across every stage of the supply chain.

• AFM Safecoat– Nontoxic paints, sealers, and coatings with NO to low VOCs and are made for those that are chemically sensitive. All products are entirely U.S.-made with U.S. sourced ingredients.
• Alkemi– Surfacing material made from recycled aluminum and polymer resin. All materials are U.S. sourced and manufactured.
• American Clay Plaster– All natural clay plaster made from clays, aggregates, and natural pigments offering a breathable and toxin-free alternative to conventional wall finishes. All clay and pigments are harvested and processed domestically.
• Bedrock Industries– Decorative tiles and glass products made entirely from 100% recycled glass. All glass is domestically sourced, and they do not add any color pigments.
• BLUE BEAR by Franmar– Eco-friendly paint removers, adhesives, and degreasers based on soy chemistry made from entirely U.S.-sourced ingredients and manufacturing.
• Bonded Logic Cotton Batt Insulation– Insulation made from recycled denim and cotton fibers. Pre and post-consumer denim is processed in the U.S.
• Eleek– Custom cast metal lighting, sinks, and hardware. 80% of materials are sourced within 50 miles of the facility.
• Fireclay Tile– Ceramic and brick tiles, made with recycled content. All clay and brick materials and most pigments are sourced in the U.S.; some pigments (less than 5%) may be imported due to lack of U.S. supply.
• Gilasi– Countertops made from recycled glass and proprietary binder. All components, including recycled glass, are U.S. sourced.
• Healthier Choice– Flooring underlayment made from environmentally friendly materials for carpet and hardwood. Fully U.S. made and sourced.
• IceStone– Durable countertop surface made from recycled glass, Portland cement, and non-toxic pigments. All ingredients are sourced domestically except Portland cement, which is U.S. made but occasionally imported from Canada when unavailable.
• Murco– Hypoallergenic, all-purpose joint compounds formulated with no preservatives, mildewcides, or fungicides. M100 is 95% domestic, HA100 is 100% domestic. Manufactured in Texas, Arizona, and California.
• Paperstone– Sustainable composite surface material made from recycled paper and petroleum-free resin. All components are U.S. sourced and manufactured.
• Real Milk Paint– Natural and organic paint made from milk protein and is often used in antique or rustic finishes. 100% U.S. sourced ingredients for both paint and hemp oil. They have other products that are not entirely sourced within the U.S.
• Red Rock Tileworks– Sustainable handmade ceramic tiles made in Nashville, Tennessee. The only product not made in the U.S. is their machine-pressed tiles which are produced in Mexico, then finished in Nashville.
• Richlite– Durable surface material made from compressed recycled paper and resin. All paper is sourced domestically, and their resin is made in house.
• Romabio– Mineral-based paints for masonry and interior walls. The Masonry Flat is made in the U.S. with many raw materials being sourced domestically, though not all.
• Sustainable Northwest Wood– Sustainably harvested lumber, mostly from the Pacific Northwest, used for flooring, paneling, and other wood applications. Primarily U.S. sourced lumber, though some Pacific Madrone comes from British Columbia.
• TorZo Surfaces– Sustainable countertops and decorative panels made from agricultural by-products and wood material up cycled from the construction waste stream. Made using domestic materials and regionally sourced inputs.
• Vetrazzo– Countertop surfacing material made from recycled glass and cement, which is all sourced and made in the U.S.

Why Knowing the Difference Matters

Knowing where your materials come from empowers you to build more responsibly and make informed, sustainability-focused decisions throughout your project. Even products that are only finished in the U.S. can offer meaningful advantages, including reduced emissions from shipping, better oversight of labor practices, and support for local economies. However, materials that are both sourced and manufactured entirely within the country take these benefits even further. As a result, they often carry smaller carbon footprints, pose fewer environmental uncertainties, and are more likely to contribute to sourcing credits in green building certifications such as LEED.

Supporting Local Means Designing with Intention

Choosing locally made and sourced materials supports community values, environmental responsibility, and long-term sustainability—far beyond just product selection. These materials offer more than good design; they bring purpose, intention, and a unique story to every space you create.

Our collection includes recycled paper countertops, U.S.-harvested clay plasters, and denim insulation—each selected for transparency and responsible sourcing. Whether you’re a designer, architect, or homeowner, we’ll help you explore local options that align with your project goals.