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128 bostoncommon-magazine.com Is there a secret to staying together (happily) for 25 years? Mitchell Gold and Bob Williams, of the eponymous home décor brand, might say that for them it's a passionate devotion to their business and their community. Since its launch in 1989, the brand has prioritized environmen- tally sound production practices, joining furniture companies such as Cisco Home and Lee Industries. Part of that commitment involves using eco-friendly recycled metals, regenerated fibers, sustainably harvested exotic woods, and biodegrad- able glue. The duo's new book, Who We Are (Assouline, $60), is a behind-the-scenes look at the brand. "It acts as a scrapbook for the last 25 years," says Williams, who recently visited the Boston store with Gold for the 25th anniversary party. "It's nice to have a chance to share those memories all over again with people." The pair spoke with Boston Common about the book, their greatest accomplishments, and pioneering a green path. After 25 years in business, what are your biggest accomplishments? Mitchell Gold: Transitioning from an upholstery manufacturer to one of the leading marquee names in retail home furnishings in North America today. Also, being an example for companies that numbers are important but people are more important. Bob Williams: Opening the daycare [in our corporate offices]. It's an education, not activity- based, daycare, with children as little as 6 weeks old up to kindergarten. You've been environ- mentally friendly since the beginning; how do you continue those practices today? BW: It started off when we founded the company, with the [soy-bsed ] foam we used, and we expanded the prac- tice into all aspects of the company. Being green makes you a leaner, more efficient company. We use less raw material than we used to and we create less waste. What inspired you to create the coffee-table book Who We Are? MG: We wanted to do something special for our 25th anniversary that would have lasting value, so a book is a great way to do that. We've had the "Who We Are" sign in our store for many years now, and people really relate to it. We loved the idea of taking some time to further explain what each point means to us. You made a generous donation to the Pine Street Inn during your recent anniversary party here in Boston. How important is philanthropy to your company? BW: It is so important to us, especially with this year being our 25th anniversary, and we wanted to do something special with all the stores. We encouraged the stores to find an organi- zation that was important to the community where we could have a big impact. 142 B erkeley St., 617-266-0075; mitchellgoldboston.com BC The Greener Good Mitchell Gold and BoB WilliaMs ring in 25 years with a new book and a vigorous commitment to the environment. by jessica laniewski clockwise from far left: Bob Williams and Mitchell Gold; their new book; the Gabriel Collection. "being green makes you a leaner, more efficient company. we use less raw material and we create less waste." —bob williams haute property Design News