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 support environmentally conscious design while also reflecting the values of local and regional sourcing. Many of the products we carry are manufactured right here in the United States, and some take it a step further by sourcing all of their raw materials domestically.

Why does this matter? Choosing U.S.-made products helps reduce the carbon footprint associated with global shipping, supports domestic jobs, and encourages more transparent, ethical manufacturing practices. It can also help control project costs by reducing freight and import fees—without sacrificing performance or aesthetics.

Materials Fully Made & Sourced in the U.S.

These products go beyond domestic manufacturing by also sourcing their raw materials from within the U.S., making them a top choice for sustainability, local economic support, and transparency. This commitment to 100% U.S.-based production sets a new benchmark in sustainability, making these products an outstanding choice for environmentally conscious design and construction. By eliminating the need for international shipping and reducing transportation-related emissions, they significantly lower the embodied carbon associated with each project. In addition, choosing locally sourced materials supports American industries, strengthens regional economies, and helps preserve skilled manufacturing jobs across the country. This high level of transparency and traceability also ensures greater accountability throughout the supply chain—an important factor for designers and builders aiming to meet the most rigorous environmental certifications and standards.

• 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

Understanding where your materials come from helps you build more responsibly. Even products that are only finished in the U.S. offer benefits—reduced emissions from shipping, ethical labor oversight, and support for local industries. But those that are fully made and sourced domestically go further: they typically have smaller carbon footprints, fewer environmental unknowns, and are more likely to qualify for sourcing credits in certifications like LEED.

Supporting Local Means Designing with Intention

When you choose locally made and sourced materials, you’re not just specifying a product—you’re supporting a system rooted in community values, environmental accountability, and long-term sustainability. These choices enrich your project with more than just good design—they bring purpose and story to every space.

From recycled paper countertops to U.S. harvested clay plasters and denim insulation, our curated collection reflects our commitment to thoughtful, transparent sourcing. Whether you’re an architect, designer, or homeowner, we’d love to help you explore local options that align with your project goals.