Designer Laura Jungmann has teamed up with glassmaker Cornelius Réer to transform upcycled glass into sculptural vessels, such as geometric candle holders, vases, decanters and carafes.
The duo took existing glassware (such as beer and wine bottles) and upcycled it using conventional glassblowing techniques. Jungmann clarifies that the practice is not merely a recycling procedure; rather, it increases the worth of a low-quality industrial object. She explains, "By transforming a mass-produced bottle into a new product, like a water or wine carafe, these disposable products increase in value and you extend their lifetime."
The collection is a natural progression for Jungmann, whose Product Design Diploma 'Same, Same. But Different' was a series of reformed glass waste products. The collection was featured in Milan's Largo Clausio Treves 5.
What Makes This Trend Stand Out
- Upcycled Glassware
- The trend towards upcycling glassware creates new market opportunities for designers and glassmakers wishing to incorporate environmentally-conscious values into product design.
- Glassblowing Techniques
- Glassblowing techniques are being used in new and innovative ways, as designers and artisans explore the potential of upcycled glass as a sculptural medium.
- Increased Value of Indsutrial Objects
- Designers are discovering the value of transforming industrial objects into new, repurposed products that not only have aesthetic appeal, but also increase the lifespan of the original materials.
Sectors Adopting This
- Glassware Manufacturing
- Glassware manufacturers can explore opportunities to incorporate upcycled materials and sustainable design principles into their product lines.
- Interior Design
- Interior design professionals can incorporate unique, sculptural glassware pieces into their designs, incorporating upcycled materials as a statement of environmental consciousness.
- Sustainability Consulting
- Sustainability consultants can advise on the value of incorporating upcycling and sustainable design principles into product development, creating new opportunities for manufacturers who wish to appeal to eco-conscious consumers.
