Denmark-based textile company Kvadrat has tapped into the design expertise of Italian designer Patricia Urquiola in order to create an innovative new range of upholstery textiles that are made entirely of recycled plastic collected along and near the coasts of Thailand.
The 'Sport' collection of upholstery textiles was created in collaboration with Swiss company #tide, which specializes in repurposing ocean-sourced plastic waste to create high-quality raw materials. Rather than make use of plastic obtained in the open water, the 'Sport' textiles use plastic recovered within 10 km of the shore, meaning the plastic is less porous and better preserved, which makes for a higher-quality product as well as boosted environmental impact.
What's more, unlike regular polyester textiles which are flat in shape, the 'Sport' upholstery textiles have a complex tactile structure that makes for a delicately intricate aesthetic.
These upholstery textiles are available in an array of vibrant and appealing colors which are said to be inspired by contemporary sportswear look, hence the label name of 'Sport' that adorns these materials.
Ocean-Friendly Upholstery Textiles
The 'Sport' Textiles Are Crafted From Shoreline-Sourced Plastic
Trend Themes
1. Ocean-friendly Upholstery Textiles - The 'Sport' collection of upholstery textiles is made entirely of recycled plastic collected along and near the coasts of Thailand.
2. Shoreline-sourced Raw Materials - The 'Sport' textiles use plastic recovered within 10 km of the shore, resulting in a higher-quality product and a boosted environmental impact.
3. Complex Tactile Structure - The 'Sport' upholstery textiles have a delicately intricate aesthetic thanks to their complex tactile structure.
Industry Implications
1. Textile Manufacturing - The 'Sport' collection showcases the potential for creating ocean-friendly upholstery textiles by repurposing ocean-sourced plastic waste.
2. Recycling and Waste Management - The partnership between Kvadrat and #tide demonstrates the viability of collecting plastic waste from coastlines and repurposing it into high-quality raw materials for textiles.
3. Interior Design and Furnishings - The 'Sport' upholstery textiles offer an environmentally conscious and visually appealing option for interior designers and furnishing companies.