Creating a collection of furniture that speaks to the environmentally conscious is something that Jonas Edvard and Nikolaj Steenfatt has been able to do in an unexpected way. Instead of sourcing bamboo or other similar eco-friendly material, the Danish design duo turned to the ocean and, specifically, fucus seaweed.
Raw and organic, Jonas Edvard and Nikolaj Steenfatt created a series of chairs and light fixtures made out of the plant life. Found along the Danish coastline and harvested by hand, the seaweed becomes a durable, cork-like material after it is dried, ground up into powder and mixed into a glue. Jonas Edvard says, "As most people don't know the actual strength of the alginate, they often think we put some extra glue inside, but it is only seaweed and paper."
Sustainable Seaweed Furniture
Jonas Edvard and Nikolaj Steenfatt Create Raw Chairs and Lamps
Trend Themes
1. Sustainable Furniture - The trend towards sustainable furniture continues to grow, creating opportunities for eco-friendly materials and production methods.
2. Ocean Sourced Materials - The use of seaweed and other ocean sourced materials for furniture and design is a growing trend, with potential for further innovation in material development and sourcing methods.
3. Raw and Organic Design - The trend towards raw and organic design is driving demand for natural, renewable materials and innovative production methods that align with eco-friendly values.
Industry Implications
1. Furniture Manufacturing - Furniture manufacturers can incorporate sustainable materials and production into their design and manufacturing processes, appealing to eco-conscious customers.
2. Interior Design - Interior design firms can offer sustainable furniture options and integrate raw and organic design trends into their clients' spaces.
3. Sustainable Materials Development - The development and production of innovative, sustainable materials like seaweed-based derivatives has potential for disruptive innovation in multiple industries, from fashion to bioplastics.