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'Rooted in Craft' Wins Top Honor at Austin Spotlight Film Festival

Home Trends & Design (HTD) marked a significant milestone as their documentary film, Rooted in Craft, won the prestigious Best Documentary award at the 2026 Austin Spotlight Film Festival. This honor was presented during the festival's special 10th anniversary celebration held on September 12, 2026.

Directed by Richard Gordy, Rooted in Craft invites viewers into the heart of the furniture-making process, showcasing the dedication and artistry involved in crafting HTD's handmade furniture. The film was shot in diverse locations, including Rajasthan, India, and Austin, Texas, providing an intriguing behind-the-scenes perspective that many consumers may never have the opportunity to see firsthand.

Filmed on location, the documentary emphasizes the painstaking effort and specific techniques that artisans employ to create each piece of furniture, ensuring that it meets the high standards of sustainability and craftsmanship that HTD champions. Through interviews with skilled craftsmen and breathtaking cinematography, audiences are transported into factories and quarries, witnessing the journey each item takes before it reaches their homes.

The accolade from the renowned film festival was certified by Festival Director Ali Alkhafaji along with a panel of experts, recognizing not just the storytelling but the crucial environmental themes the documentary explores. This award comes as HTD is poised to expand its philanthropic endeavors through the Mango Foundation. After over ten years of successful reforestation efforts, the foundation is set to launch new sustainability initiatives aimed at improving access to clean drinking water in communities where HTD operates.

The Austin Spotlight Film Festival has earned a reputation for celebrating independent filmmakers and showcasing original storytelling, further solidifying HTD's commitment to both artistry and social responsibility. Following a weekend packed with screenings, discussions, and networking opportunities, the festival revealed the winners, adding a proud achievement to HTD's impressive portfolio.

For those interested in viewing Rooted in Craft, the award-winning documentary is available online. You can find the full film on YouTube here.

About Home Trends & Design

Established in Austin, Texas, Home Trends & Design specializes in creating sustainable, handcrafted solid wood furniture. The company is committed to producing high-quality heirloom pieces while prioritizing eco-friendly practices and low-VOC finishes throughout their collections. In addition to their production efforts, HTD actively collaborates with artisans worldwide, embodying a blend of traditional craftsmanship and innovative design. HTD’s Mango Foundation continues to drive meaningful environmental and community initiatives globally, emphasizing the brand’s dedication to positive change.