As part of a project called 'Plane to Product,' KLM challenged 14 students from Design Academy Eindhoven to think of new uses for items that were once a part of KLM’s World Business Class interior. Using old pieces of upholstery, seats and carpets, the students were able to create a range of prototypes for items that would be relevant for a flight, such as on-board slippers or a set of exercise gear that could be used to encourage blood circulation.
In order to celebrate clever design and sustainable thinking, the top eight pieces are currently on display until June 15th at the de Bijenkorf department store in Amsterdam.
Plane to Product sets a fantastic example for brands and people to think about products as part of a regenerative design process, versus something that has a clear end-of-life cycle.
Why This Trend Is Growing
- Upcycling Design
- Designers are repurposing used items and creating new products that promote sustainable thinking and regenerative design processes.
- Sustainable Innovation
- Companies are embracing sustainable innovation by promoting circularity and extending the lifecycle of their products.
- Innovative Prototyping
- Innovative prototyping methods are being used to create new designs from old materials, encouraging creativity and waste reduction.
Industries Being Reshaped
- Air Travel
- The air travel industry can repurpose old interior items into new products to improve the flying experience and reduce waste.
- Design
- The design industry can promote sustainable practices and innovative prototyping by repurposing used items into new products that have a positive impact on the environment.
- Retail
- The retail industry can showcase upcycling designs that promote sustainability and circularity, while supporting the work of designers who are creating innovative products from used materials.
