Collection: Itza Wood

Itza Wood

Itza Wood is led by a mother-and-daughter team: Philadelphia native Suzanne Babarczy and her daughter Eliza, who spent much of her childhood in Guatemala, where Suzanne founded The Jungle School with her husband Mario in a remote corner of the Central American country. After launching her career in event planning in the U.S., Eliza Babarczy decided to return to Peten, Guatemala, to work alongside her parents. Itza Wood, launched five years ago, was intended as a way to raise money for the school while also employing local woodworkers and showcasing (and protecting) the region’s beautiful tropical hardwoods, making each piece a true expression of the Guatemalan jungle’s beauty and biodiversity. “This is my mom’s dream, and I am the executor — it’s both of our hearts,” says Eliza Babaczry, noting that Itza Wood turns over 10 percent of its profits to the school, while employing seven of its graduates part-time. “As a young company, we’re still growing — and setting a firm foundation for bigger giving in the future.” 

Handcrafted Products

At Itza Wood, we take pride in our handcrafted products, which are made from sustainably harvested exotic woods. Our products include cutting boards, kitchen utensils, and decorative home furnishings that are designed to be both functional and beautiful. Each piece is a unique expression of Guatemalan beauty and biodiversity, reflecting the rich landscape grains and warm tones of the tropical wood. Our handcrafted products are made with love and care, ensuring that every piece is truly one of a kind.

Sourcing and Sustainability

We are committed to responsible sourcing and harvesting practices, using only FSC-certified exotic woods in our products. Our wood is sourced from the Peten region of Guatemala, where we work closely with local communities to ensure that our practices are sustainable and environmentally friendly. We believe that our commitment to sustainability is reflected in the beauty and quality of our products, which are designed to last for generations.

Care and Maintenance

To ensure that your Itza Wood product remains in excellent condition, we recommend the following care and maintenance tips:

• Avoid exposing your product to direct sunlight or extreme temperatures.
• Clean your product with a soft cloth and mild soap.
• Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
• Dry your product thoroughly after cleaning to prevent water spots.
• Apply a wood conditioner or oil to maintain the natural beauty of the wood.

By following these simple care and maintenance tips, you can enjoy your Itza Wood product for years to come.

Read more about them in our Journal Article here.