Designer’s 3D-Printed Furniture Turns Recycled Plastic into Functional Art

FDT Bureau

While 3D-printed furniture has yet to reach mainstream popularity on the same scale as conventional furniture, it is steadily gaining traction in the design and manufacturing industries. Many of the emerging 3D-printed furniture concepts place a strong emphasis on sustainability, often utilizing recyclable or recycled materials, which makes them significantly more environmentally friendly than traditional furniture production methods that typically rely on virgin wood, metal or plastic. One particularly interesting contribution to this movement is the Revo Chair Concept, a project designed by Ethan Solodukhin. Here is a detailed report on FURNITURE DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY (FDT).

As its name implies, Revo stands for revolutionary, representing a shift in how furniture can be made, used, and perceived. The Revo Chair and its companion piece, the Stoool (intentionally spelled with three o’s), are part of a larger initiative powered by the PlastiVista Atelier program. This program actively promotes community involvement in sustainable design by encouraging individuals, especially those in homes, schools and local communities to donate their plastic waste. This collected plastic is then processed and converted into usable 3D-printing filament, ensuring that what would have otherwise been environmental waste is repurposed into something both practical and innovative.

Both the Revo Chair and Stoool are crafted entirely from 100 per cent recycled plastic, emphasizing the designer’s commitment to environmental responsibility. The Revo Chair stands out for its single-piece construction, which not only simplifies the manufacturing process but also enhances the structural integrity of the design. What makes it particularly compelling is its multi-functionality. Depending on how it is positioned, the Revo Chair can function not only as a seat but also as a form of storage. Its surface appears flat and sturdy enough to serve both seating and storage purposes.

The Stoool, on the other hand, is more straightforward in its design and use. It is a compact, standalone piece that primarily functions as a seat. However, given its shape and size, it could easily double as a side table, making it a versatile addition to a small space or modular living area.

Image credit: Ethan Solodukhin