.Meet the Maker - Mark
Introduction & Background
My journey into sustainable and circular design started at TU Delft, where I studied Industrial Design. Before that, I was all about the aesthetics and not too concerned with environmental sciences. During my studies, I worked as both a gardener and with an IT company, which gave me a unique perspective. The program at Delft had a strong focus on sustainability, and it opened my eyes to the importance of materials, production, and the environment.
I discovered that sustainable and circular design is a challenging and exciting field that I really enjoy. I joined Planq during my studies TU Delft, this further developed my deeper understanding and importance of creating aesthetically pleasing objects
centred around circular design.
Brand & Design Philosophy
For us, circular design means thinking about the entire lifecycle of a product. Before starting any project, we strongly consider materials and the impact we’re wanting to create, making sure to share the material's story with the user. The XY60 collection is a clear example of this: we want the user to feel connected to its story while also considering the collections lifespan. This influenced our choice of materials and finishes, like using visible fibres as a surface finish and a steel frame. We then decide on the design language to match the product's story.
For the XY60 chair, we aimed for a playful design with curved lines pointing upwards (like a smile) and outward-pointing legs to give it a happy and outgoing appearance.
Materials & Production
In our furniture, we use materials that are sustainable, meaning they are recyclable, renewable, and have a longer than usual lifespan. I love getting into the nitty-gritty of the materials we use, often taking things apart to understand how they work. This helps us make informed choices and ensures our products are truly sustainable and circular from the offset.
The lifecycle of a product begins with material selection, configuring it to be recyclable or repurposed, followed by design and production that leverages the material's characteristics and ensures they can be easily separated.
Environmental Impact
We measure the environmental impact of our furniture
through Life Cycle Assessments (LCAs). Our goal is to minimise waste and reduce our carbon footprint by using biobased or recycled materials and efficient production methods. Our commitment to sustainability is evident in every step of our design process, from the initial design to the end of the product's life.
Collaboration & Community
With our brand Rezign, we collaborate with other brands and constantly have multiple projects running to develop new materials and solutions for pre- and post-consumer waste. Personally, I engage with the local community by repairing and upgrading products in my free time, often using soldering and 3D printing techniques.
Creating sustainable furniture is complex and can be overwhelming. We aim to impact every aspect of a product, which requires going back to its core to make meaningful changes. Our audience's reactions vary, some embrace colour differentiation and unique features, while others prefer traditional and detailed designs. We strive to cater to both preferences, however we can’t please everyone!
Challenges & Innovations
Telling the story and educating people about sustainability and circular design is crucial. We communicate the story of each product and the importance of the materials used. The response has been positive, especially from a new generation
that appreciates the unique features and sustainable story of our products.
Customer Engagement
Market & Trends
The market for sustainable furniture is evolving rapidly.
People are increasingly embracing new materials and seeking products with a sustainable story.
Design is important, but having a strong sustainability narrative is becoming essential. In future collections, I hope we can create
the most sustainable versions of certain products, which will be a great challenge and lesson for us.
Personal Insights & Future Plans
One of my proudest moments as a designer was when the Keynius Smarthome was launched at Orgatec a few years back.
It was my first product produced in series, and seeing it at a fair was really great. For the future, we plan to enhance the
traceability of our products, implement take-back programs for materials, and innovate further in material use.
The market is already changing, and people are more receptive to new, sustainable materials.
Advice for Aspiring Designers
To young designers interested in sustainability and circular design, I would advise them to deeply understand the products they work on. Digging into design choices, production methods, and materials will provide a solid foundation for incorporating sustainable practices
into their work.