SomethingRegal: A Handmade Desk Crafted from Recycled Wood

A Unique Piece of Furniture with a Fascinating History

The inspiration for the Equator Memorial Project came to Johann Sigmarsson when he stumbled upon the idea of recycling the wood that was being discarded during the refurbishment of Reykjavík Harbor. The wood, which had been part of the harbor since its construction in the early 1900s, was originally sourced from a German schooner that sank off the coast of Iceland in 1890. Sigmarsson saw an opportunity to give this historic material a new lease on life.

The desk, aptly named SomethingRegal, showcases the unique properties of the recycled wood. The cabinet features three glass shelves, a light, and an interior lined with green calf skin, creating an elegant display space. The five drawers are adorned with red calf skin at the bottom, adding a touch of luxury. One of the drawers even has a glass plate in the desk top, allowing a glimpse of the red leather interior. The desk top itself is upholstered with red leather, adding a bold and sophisticated element to the design. The sides of the cabinet are intricately sawn to close together in the legs, creating a seamless and visually striking look. The knobs, made from Icelandic stones and crystal, add a touch of natural beauty to the piece.

Creating SomethingRegal was not without its challenges. The primary obstacle was obtaining and preparing the wood from Reykjavík Harbor. However, Sigmarsson's dedication and passion for sustainability drove him to overcome these hurdles and transform the discarded material into a work of art.

SomethingRegal made its debut in 2013 at the "The Art of being Icelandic" group exhibition in collaboration with Reykjavík UNESCO, City of Literature. The exhibition showcased the beauty and craftsmanship of furniture made from the recycled pinewood of Reykjavík Harbor. The desk, with its rich history and exquisite design, was displayed in Reykjavík City Hall, captivating visitors with its unique story.

The Equator Memorial Project and SomethingRegal have received recognition for their outstanding design. In 2014, SomethingRegal was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in the Furniture Design category. This prestigious award recognizes well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements. SomethingRegal's integration of industry best practices, competent technical characteristics, and its contribution to sustainability make it a deserving recipient of this accolade.

SomethingRegal is not just a desk; it is a piece of history, art, and sustainability. Johann Sigmarsson's vision and craftsmanship have transformed recycled wood into a functional and visually stunning piece of furniture. With its fascinating backstory and elegant design, SomethingRegal is a true testament to the beauty of repurposed materials.