3D LARGE
SCALE PRINTS
Collaborative project involving City of Espoo, Kierrätyskeskus and Bloft Design Lab, where my task was to design
3D-printable products from waste plastic. The Espoo City's Sustainable Development Competence Center had developed models for a green transition, aiming to promote emission-free, resource-efficient, andbiodiversity-enhancing products and services. In the project, Bloft Design Lab's role was to redirect waste plastic streams, which would otherwise be incinerated, into reusable materials. Recycled plastic was turned into plastic pellets for the 3D large scale printer, used to create experimental utility items. The intention is for the 3D prints to be displayed at the Kierrätyskeskus store in the RED Shopping Center.
The intention was to design home products with a distinct purpose for everyday use. Nothing overly complex, but rather items with clear forms that leave no ambiguity in their intended use. No unnecessary use of previously recycled plastic, but instead, durable design within the product's intended environment. The concept revolved around a scenario in which the product would be complete the moment the 3D printer comes to a halt, eliminating the need for any post-processing or assembly. I kept the design language of the planned products as simple and approachable as possible, keeping in mind the soft, rounded shape throughout the collection.
The plan was for a wider collection of various home furnishings. Due to production difficulties and exceeding the schedule, the only finished product was a armchair-like seat. Clear polypropylene was chosen as the printing material for the seat, which was enhanced by different-colored material specks. The printer's printing area dimensions forced the seat to be smaller than the original plans, resulting in a lower backrest than originally intended. Fortunately, despite the changes, the ergonomics did not suffer greatly, and the chair turned out to be quite functional!
Time will tell if there will be a continuation for the project in the future. I would gladly take on the challenge of developing the remaining planned products, as the 3D large scale printer allows for a truly unique and intriguing approach to furniture design.