Tag: new materials
Walking the Talk: Making Circular Design a Reality
PIAO CHAIR
The PIAO CHAIR is made from multiple layers of fibrous paper, laminated together by hand to create a lightweight yet remarkably strong structure. The edges of the paper are left raw and uneven, highlighting the material’s natural origins and the craftsmanship involved in the chair’s production.
The chair’s form evokes the silhouette of Ming-dynasty horseshoe chairs—an iconic element of Chinese furniture history. The choice of material is inspired by the traditional paper umbrella-making techniques of the Yuhang District in Hangzhou, where PINWU Design Studio is located.
PINWU Design Studio was founded by Zhang Lei, Christoph John, and Jovana Zhang after they met at the Milan Salone del Mobile furniture fair in 2010. Their work often explores how fragile or ephemeral materials like paper can be transformed through skill and creativity into durable objects.
BIOCARPET
The subject of this artistic creation is an experimental textile surface made from wool waste. By employing woolen fibers and utilizing the felting technique, Biocarpet stands out as a remarkable example of how art and sustainability can intertwine.
The “Biocarpet – Apple Murex Egg Casing” is a groundbreaking artwork that merges the wonders of the ocean with the comfort of home textiles. This unique piece is designed to unveil the hidden mysteries of sea worlds and their natural, often invisible structures through a captivating textile sculpture-carpet.
Our urban environments are dominated by synthetic materials that can feel harsh and unwelcoming. Therefore, the design focuses on integrating tactile and biomimetic structures into the carpet, which highlights key themes such as recycling, biodiversity, and the use of natural materials.
BIODESIGN – IMM64BS
Inspired by Suzanne Lee’s research, Maja began cultivating mushroom-based materials to continue where Lee’s work left off. Through this process, Maja has discovered that this material is not only durable, but also self-sustaining, healthy, and strong. It behaves like nylon and leather but without the environmental impact.
The material thrives in warm climates, takes the shape of its vessel, and eliminates fabric cutting. It grows in 7–10 days with zero waste and can adapt to colder climates with a longer growth period. Initially low-cost, it becomes self-sustaining, with a healthy, drinkable byproduct.
Keep up with Maja Halilovic work.