The Art of Transformation: Found Objects at Dutch Design Week
Embracing Sustainability with a Creative Twist
The first morning, in the bustling heart of Dutch Design Week (DDW), I stumbled upon a gem that sparkled with the promise of innovation and sustainability. This was my first encounter with Found Objects, a name that would soon become synonymous with creative brilliance and environmental responsibility. The energy was on as I navigated through the first but vibrant corner of DDW, with each exhibitor radiating enthusiasm for the week ahead. Among them was Iñigo, whose passion for transforming waste into wonder was inspiring. He showed me what he, together with Paola, Jesse, and the production company Fiction Factory have in store for us!
The Philosophy of Found Objects
Found Objects is a beacon of hope in a world grappling with waste. I walked away feeling that "One man's waste is another man's supply" was a great reminder of this innovation. Not just a catchy phrase but the very foundation of their work. The studio specializes in crafting furniture from mostly rest material – leftovers from other projects that are often custom-made or created once, rendering them economically and environmentally inefficient.
A Unique Approach to Furniture Making
Upcycling is at the heart of Found Objects approach – turning waste materials into new, valuable products. This isn't just recycling; it's a creative process that adds value through design and craftsmanship. During DDW, they showcased this unique approach by setting up a live workshop. Here, they collected various materials throughout the event, transforming them into a final product by week's end. This live demonstration wasn't just about creating furniture but a performance of sustainability in action.
Fiction Factory: A Collaborative Effort in Sustainability
In further exploring the world of sustainable design, I came across Fiction Factory's "Found Objects" project. This initiative is a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation in sustainable design. Through its Found Objects project, Fiction Factory has created an open-source design tool that parametrically generates shapes from leftover sheet material from CNC projects. This reduces waste and gives rise to new materials and design possibilities.
During Dutch Design Week 2023, Fiction Factory, in collaboration with designers Iñigo, Paola, and Jesse showcased furniture pieces crafted from waste material. This presentation highlighted different techniques for working with Found Objects components, ranging from small products to large architectural installations. It's a brilliant example of how sustainability can be integrated into design without compromising aesthetics or functionality.
The Material Magic
The materials used by Found Objects and Fiction Factory in their projects are as unique as their designs. No two pieces are alike since these materials are generated from incomplete sheets. This unpredictability adds a layer of excitement and uniqueness to each creation. The materials can range from geometric and angular to smooth and organic, offering endless possibilities for innovation.
This Stool, a remarkable creation from Found Objects, is a testament to innovative, sustainable design. Crafted meticulously from waste wood, this Stool is not just a piece of furniture but a statement of environmental responsibility. Measuring a perfect cube of 40x40x40 cm, it offers versatile functionality, effortlessly transitioning from a comfortable stool to a fundamental building block for creative shelving solutions. What sets this Stool apart is its striking design contrast: the sharp, clean lines of its cubic exterior beautifully juxtapose the chaotic, wavy patterns of its interior, making it a captivating addition to any space that values both aesthetic appeal and sustainability.
Joining the Sustainable Design Movement
Found Objects and Fiction Factory are not just creating sustainable products but building communities. They invite designers, makers, and enthusiasts to join them in this journey of sustainable innovation. Through workshops, exhibitions, and collaborations, they spread the message that sustainability can be fun, creative, and deeply impactful.
Collaborate?
If you're inspired by the sustainable design showcased in this article and are interested in collaborating, there are several talented designers and a producer you can reach out to. For innovative furniture design and sustainable solutions:
Iñigo Puerta Studio
Web www.inigopuertastudio.com
Email ipuertauranga@gmail.com
Instagram @inigo_puerta_studio
Jesse Howard
Web jessehoward.net
Paola Zanchetta
Web paotzm@gmail.com
Instagram @paotzm
Fiction Factory
Web www.fictionfactory.nl
Email marije@fictionfactory.nl
Instagram @fictionfactory.amsterdam
These professionals are at the forefront of sustainable design and are open to collaborative opportunities that push the boundaries of creativity and environmental responsibility.
