Who said the world of science had to be deadly boring and unsuited to everyday life? Well, Cognitive Surplus proves that's not the case at all, and that science is a fascinating world of magic.
Founded in 2013 by Kristen and Geoff Zephyrus, the company was initially located in their tiny apartment. Both were fascinated by the world of science and wanted to inspire others to discover new things in every field.
And what better way to inspire than through everyday objects? That's how Cognitive Surplus created its collections of notebooks, washi tape, index cards, bags, glasses, and other useful gadgets. Each item is decorated with graphics from a different field of science – so enthusiasts and practitioners of medicine, biology, astronomy, linguistics, geology, and more will find their favorite tools. The illustrations are reminiscent of old encyclopedia engravings, maps, and textbooks, and their meticulous detail encourages pause and examination, especially when we want to take a closer look at, for example, the constellations depicted on washi tape.
The brand's success meant that the company's first employee came on board in 2016, and as I write these words, Coginitive Surplus is located in a spacious building in Redmond, in the desert areas of Central Oregon, employing a number of people, including people with disabilities.
Despite this significant step in the company's development, the founders' values have not changed: they want to leave the world a little better than they found it. After all, the name Cognitive Surplus simply means a social opportunity to engage in collaborative activities whose creative outcomes can improve the world.
Cognitive Surplus products are made from recycled or sustainably sourced materials and are recyclable or compostable. The company's efforts are aimed at minimizing its carbon footprint, which has resulted in it receiving the Gold (the highest) Sustainability at Work Certificate from the city of Portland, Oregon.
We hope you understand why Escribo couldn't be without these extraordinary paper wonders from Cognitive Surplus. They certainly work their magic on us!